The Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe has voted to push for a ban on so-called conversion practices that try to change a person’s sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression. The vote on January 28, 2026, in Strasbourg passed with 71 in favor, 26 against, and two abstentions, marking a big step toward protecting LGBTQ+ people, especially trans and gender-diverse individuals, from harmful and discredited practices.
Conversion practices can take many forms, from “counseling” and religious rituals to other interventions aimed at forcing someone to change who they are. Experts agree these practices don’t work and can cause real damage, including anxiety, depression, and even higher suicide risk. The Council of Europe stressed that clear laws and punishments are needed to make sure people are protected.
Unlike some past measures in Europe, this resolution specifically includes trans and gender-diverse people, acknowledging that they are often the main targets of conversion efforts. The vote came despite opposition from groups who claimed the ban could interfere with discussions about gender identity. Human rights advocates pushed back, pointing out the real harm these practices cause.
The resolution isn’t legally binding, but it sends a strong message to member states to create or strengthen laws banning conversion practices. It also fits with a wider push across Europe, including campaigns backed by millions of citizens, to stop these abuses.
For LGBTQ+ rights advocates, the vote is a major win. It reinforces the idea that trying to force someone to change who they are is unacceptable and goes against basic human rights.
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