Netherlands Criminalizes Conversion Therapy with Jail and Fines
Dutch Senate criminalized conversion therapy with fines and prison penalties.
Why it matters: The law marks a major milestone enhancing LGBTQ+ legal protections and health care rights. Corporate and legal advisors must update compliance guidance accordingly.
- On June 16, 2026, Dutch Senate passed the 'Wet strafbaarstelling conversiehandelingen'.
- 57 out of 75 senators voted in favor of criminalizing conversion therapy.
- New penalties include fines up to €27,500 and prison sentences up to two years.
- Law targets conversion therapy on minors and vulnerable adults, including counseling-based practices.
On June 16, 2026, the Dutch Senate approved the Wet strafbaarstelling conversiehandelingen, criminalizing conversion therapy practices aimed at changing an individual's sexual orientation or gender identity. This legislation aligns the Netherlands with a growing number of countries taking legal action against these harmful practices.
The bill passed with a strong majority, as 57 out of 75 senators voted in favor. Violators of the law now face fines up to €27,500 and prison sentences of up to two years. This marks the first time that counseling-based conversion efforts, not just physical or medical interventions, are explicitly outlawed in the country.
The law specifically applies to conversions targeting minors or adults deemed to be in vulnerable situations, closing previous legal gaps. Prior to this, certain extreme forms such as shock therapy and medication-based attempts were already illegal.
This legislative effort was a joint initiative by MPs from multiple parties including D66, VVD, GroenLinks-PvdA, SP, and the Partij voor de Dieren, reflecting broad political consensus. The move coincides with the European Commission's push urging all EU nations to ban conversion therapy; only 10 of 27 EU members have partial or complete bans as of May 2026.
Legal professionals, especially those advising on compliance, health law, and civil rights, should monitor how enforcement unfolds and update risk assessments related to LGBTQ+ protections in the Netherlands.
By the numbers:
- 57 out of 75 senators voted to pass the law — broad legislative support
- €27,500 maximum fine and 2 years imprisonment — penalties for converting therapy
- 10 of 27 EU countries have partial or full conversion therapy bans — EU-wide context
What's next: Implementation details and enforcement mechanisms remain to be clarified by Dutch authorities.