The EU’s equality chief Hadja Lahbib told Euronews’ Europe Today programme that conversion therapy is “torture” that can lead to depression and suicide – “and that’s why we need really to react and to combat these practices.”
The comments came following a presentation by the European Commission regarding a citizens initiative signed by more than one million signatures calling for a bloc-wide ban on the practice.
Instead of meeting the demands, the Commission will next year will put forth the non-binding recommendation that cover actions to increase societal awareness, help victims seek legal action and strengthen medical and psychological support.
Asked why the executive had not gone as far, Lahbib admitted a lack of unanimity among member states.
Article 19 of the EU treaties compels unanimity to tackle discrimination based on sex, racial or ethnic origin, religion or belief, disability, age or sexual orientation.
“The European Commission is sending a very clear message without ambiguity to every member state in this union: ban conversion practices now,” Lahbib said.
“Member states have an essential role to play because this largely falls under their responsibility,” she added, placing the burden on capitals.
As of today, eight of 27 member states – Belgium, Cyprus, France, Germany, Greece, Malta, Spain and Portugal – have bans in place. The laws are not identical. For instance, they foresee various degrees of financial penalties and prison sentences.
“They have shown it can be done,” Lahbib went on, praising the eight countries. “We are building on that momentum, calling on the rest to follow.”
Watch the full interview in the player above.