Bundestag stops "conversion treatment" for homosexuals

To date, attempts have been made to "reverse the polarity" of homosexuals by crude therapeutic methods. At least in the case of minors, this will be prohibited in the future. There were no votes against for the new law. But some critics would have liked more.

Berlin (dpa) - Dubious therapies to allegedly cure homosexuality will in future be prohibited for minors. The Bundestag passed a far-reaching ban on conversion treatment on Thursday evening.

Up to the age of 18, the methods of suppressing sexual orientation are completely prohibited. However, there are also penalties if those affected are of legal age, but have been persuaded to do so by means of coercion, threats or deception.

"Homosexuality is not a disease," stressed Health Minister Jens Spahn (CDU). "Therefore the term therapy is misleading." The treatment methods often result in severe physical and mental suffering. Depression and an increased risk of suicide are considered possible consequences. If the ban is disregarded, the prison sentence is up to one year. In addition, advertising for "conversion therapies" will also be prohibited in the future.

The ban does not go far enough for critics. Among other things, the Lesbian and Gay Association (LSVD) called for improvements in the age of paternity. The Left and Greens also campaigned for this in the Bundestag. At least in the age group between 18 and 26 there is a need for protection comparable to that of minors, said spokeswoman for queer policy in the Greens Group, Ulle Schauws. In addition, parents or legal guardians should be held accountable for such "attempts at re-education".

The new law also provides for sanctions for them, but the criminal liability is limited to "cases of gross violation of the duty of care or child-rearing". The FDP deputy Jens Brandenburg also does not consider it sufficient: "Those who subject their own children to dangerous polarity reversal attempts violate their duty of care without any ifs and buts."

Despite the concerns, the FDP voted for the coalition's bill, while the left and Greens abstained as well as the AfD. Their health expert Robby Schlund supported the ban on "conversion treatment" in the debate - at the same time, however, he warned of legal uncertainty for psychotherapists who advise adolescents about their sexual orientation.

Federal Government Bill

Decision recommendation with changes