France bans “barbaric” conversion therapy in historic legislation
Those found engaging in it will face up to two years in person and a fine of €30,000, with heftier punishments of €45,000 for cases involving under-18s or vulnerable adults.
The National Assembly passed the bill by 142 votes to 0 on the evening of 25 January. President Emmanuel Macron tweeted his support of the move and stated that “being oneself is not a crime, because there is nothing to be cured.” Once signed off by the President, the bill will take 14 days to come into effect.
According to France 24, the law will also make it possible for civil suits to be filed by campaigners on behalf of victims – something that was hailed in parliament as a major breakthrough for those unable to seek help themselves.
Speaking to the National Assembly, lawmaker Laurence Vanceunebrock said the law will challenge “all those who equated an identity or a sexual orientation with sickness.” “There is nothing to cure,” she added.
