MEPs have begun discussing the possibility of an EU-wide ban on LGBTQ+ conversion practices after a European Citizens’ Initiative gathered more than one million signatures in just one week.The issue was debated on Monday in the European Parliament’s Civil Liberties Committee, alongside members from the Petitions and Women’s Rights and Gender Equality committees.The public hearing focused on how a ban could be enshrined in European law, following the success of the citizens’ initiative titled ‘Ban on Conversion Practices in the European Union’.Conversion practices, interventions aimed at changing or suppressing a person’s sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression, remain legal in several EU member states, despite being widely condemned by human rights bodies.Organisers of the initiative told MEPs that a lack of harmonised definitions and enforcement across the EU allows practitioners to operate across borders. They highlighted the long-term trauma suffered by victims, particularly minors, and pointed to recognition by medical and religious institutions that such practices are ineffective and harmful.A broad majority of MEPs discussed possible legal pathways to introduce a ban. Options raised included classifying conversion practices as an EU crime or addressing them through a directive linked to existing competences such as victim protection and anti-discrimination laws.The debate also touched on defining coercive practices clearly, safeguarding minors, improving cross-border enforcement, and ensuring EU funds are not used to support organisations connected to conversion practices. Strengthening victim support and tackling misinformation were also key themes.Some concerns were raised about balancing new legislation with freedom of expression and religious counselling.The European Commission is expected to respond formally to the initiative by 18th May. It has also confirmed it is conducting a study into conversion practices, with results due in early 2027.The European Parliament has repeatedly condemned conversion practices since 2016, describing them as harmful and discriminatory against LGBTQ+ people.The push for an EU-wide ban now moves into its next phase, with lawmakers weighing how, and whether, to turn the citizens’ demand into binding legislation.What do you make of this?•