Federal Minister of Health Jens Spahn (CDU) has improved his plans for a ban on so-called conversion therapies against homosexuality. This emerges from the draft law for the prohibition of conversion therapies, which is available to the editorial network Germany. It is due to be launched by the Federal Cabinet on Wednesday.
"We have tightened the ban," Spahn told the RND. "Previously there were exceptions for adolescents. This has been deleted because most of the therapy attempts take place in this age phase. Conversion therapy will therefore also be prohibited in the 16 to 18-year-olds in the future." This alleged therapy is "far too dangerous for body and soul to allow gray areas".
Advertising and mediation should also be prohibited
Spahn said the ban on conversion therapy should be enshrined in criminal law. "As with other criminal law offenses, depending on the seriousness of the crime, law enforcement officers or the police and public prosecutors also pursue violations," said the minister. "Incidentally, even advertising, offering and mediating conversion therapy should be prohibited. This will result in a fine of up to € 30,000." He relied on the deterrent effect: "At the moment it is estimated that up to 2000 conversion therapies are carried out in Germany every year. That is 2000 too many."
Conversion therapies refer to methods that aim to "cure" homosexuality. Health Minister Spahn said the bill would send a social signal to anyone struggling with their sexual orientation. "Homosexuality is not a disease," said the CDU politician. "In addition, this so-called conversion therapy is a danger to those affected. This often causes severe physical and mental suffering." Every doctor who offers this therapy has to put up with the accusation of physical injury.