- After a year of procedures, the parties reach a consensus to introduce article 173 bis in the Penal Code.
- The proposed sentences range from 6 months to 2 years in prison, in addition to professional disqualification.
- Paula Iglesias (FELGTBI+): “Being number one in Europe implies the responsibility to continue advancing and setting the trend.”
The protection of LGTBI+ people in Spain is about to be definitively protected. The LGTBI+ State Federation today celebrated the consensus reached among political forces for the final text of the Law against conversion therapies. After the administrative ban achieved in 2023, this new step seeks to ensure that these pseudotherapies no longer result in simple fines and are now punishable by prison sentences.
From economic punishment to criminal responsibility
Until now, the organizations that promote these practices – often protected by ultra foundations or ecclesial structures – could afford to pay the economic sanctions and continue their activity. With the new reform, article 173 bis of the Penal Code is proposed, which will punish anyone who attempts to “modify, repress or eliminate” a person’s sexual orientation or identity with up to two years in prison.
“This modification is fundamental because torture cannot be paid for with money,” said Paula Iglesias, president of the Federation. The UN already classifies these interventions as torture, pointing out the irreparable damage they cause, such as severe depression and suicidal ideation.
No room for complacency
Although ILGA-Europe has this month placed Spain as the country most respectful of LGTBI+ rights, the Federation warns that occupying first place does not mean having reached the goal. “It cannot be allowed that in the country that is the leader in diversity, torture continues with impunity,” Iglesias defends.
The reform also focuses on the false idea of consent. According to the Federation, many victims access these practices due to the pressure of a hostile environment or social LGTBIphobia. Therefore, the law will protect even those who are subjected to this violence induced by parents or guardians.
The European context: Spain as a driving force
While the European Commission has announced that it will only adopt an official “recommendation” in 2027 (after a Citizens’ Initiative that collected more than a million signatures), Spain has decided to take the legislative lead. The Federation’s intention is for the law to be ratified before Pride 2026, to be able to take to the streets celebrating a new shield against organized hatred.
