Netherlands parliament approves ban on gay 'conversion' practices

The Dutch parliament has passed a bill outlawing gay 'conversion' practices, marking a significant step in protecting vulnerable individuals from harmful and discriminatory actions. A majority of lawmakers supported the initiative, put forth by the social-liberal D66 and liberal VVD parties, following assurances that religious freedoms would be protected.

The legislation specifically targets systematic or intrusive attempts to suppress or alter an individual's sexual orientation under severe psychological pressure. It excludes conversations where a pastor advises a homosexual person against acting on their orientation, a provision that secured support from the Christian Democratic CDA party.

CNE News reports that the criminalization encompasses therapies involving electric shocks and faith healing practices. All members of parliament (MPs) agreed on this measure.

Wieke Paulusma (D66) stated, "Love need never be cured. This law protects vulnerable people from harmful practices that endanger their health and safety. This is a choice for freedom, equality, and human dignity."

Bente Becker (VVD) added, "In our country, you can be who you are and love who you want. It is unacceptable that people try to 'cure' you of your orientation with prayer sessions or even beatings."

While supportive of the final bill, Christian parties expressed concerns that the state was interfering with religious freedom. The two small Protestant parties voiced their disappointment with the outcome of the vote.

LGBT advocacy organization COC hailed the ban as "a great victory." A spokesperson said, "Gender identity and sexual orientation cannot be changed. By claiming the opposite, you cause lifelong damage to people." The COC hopes the ban will encourage religious and other groups to cease viewing homosexuality as a disease.

The bill must now be approved by the House of Lords to become law.