The European Union is amplifying its commitment to eradicate conversion therapy and address the rising tide of hate against LGBTQ+ individuals, spurred by a notable increase in attacks on this community. Recent data reveals that approximately one in four LGBTQ+ individuals in the EU has encountered some form of conversion therapy, which can manifest as physical or sexual violence, verbal abuse, or humiliation. Alarmingly, this statistic includes nearly half of all transgender people.
Commission’s strong stance against discrimination
During a press conference, Hadja Lahbib, the Commissioner for Equality, described these figures as “shocking,” asserting that “this must stop.” On Wednesday, Lahbib unveiled the LGBTIQ+ Strategy for 2026-2030, aimed at countering the escalating violence against LGBTQ+ community members. She remarked, “It seems we are moving backwards,” emphasizing the concerning trend of increasing discrimination and violence.
Current state of LGBTQ+ rights and the EU’s response
Currently, only half of the EU member states have implemented a national strategy promoting LGBTQ+ equality. However, eight countries—Belgium, Cyprus, France, Germany, Greece, Malta, Portugal, and Spain—have successfully banned conversion therapy. This issue is gaining attention in the Netherlands, where discussions are underway to consider a similar ban. In stark contrast, the United States Supreme Court is deliberating over the potential overturning of Colorado’s ban on conversion therapy.
As part of the newly introduced strategy, which is not legally binding, the European Commission aims to tackle hate speech directed at LGBTQ+ people in both online and offline spaces. Plans are underway to combat cyberbullying and establish a consistent definition of online hate offenses across member states.
Despite progress in some areas, several Eastern European nations have seen regressive policies targeting the LGBTQ+ community. Recently, Slovakia’s Prime Minister Robert Fico succeeded in amending the constitution to define gender strictly as male and female, while also prohibiting surrogacy and adoption by same-sex couples. Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has been at odds with EU authorities over various anti-LGBTQ+ measures and his failed attempt to ban this year’s Budapest Pride event.
The EU’s highest court is poised to make a ruling regarding the legality of Hungary’s actions in relation to EU law. Preliminary legal opinions suggest that the court may lean towards siding with the EU Commission. Lahbib stated, “The Commission will not hesitate to take further action,” which could include legal proceedings to safeguard individual rights. Currently, there are ten ongoing infringement procedures against Hungary for breaching fundamental EU rights.
Additionally, the Commission has temporarily withheld €18 billion in EU funding from Hungary in response to these violations. Lahbib emphasized, “We don’t want to punish the citizens for the actions taken by their governments,” and proposed that any frozen funds related to rule of law breaches be redirected to support civil society organizations in the upcoming EU long-term budget.