The UK government has published draft legislation that would criminalise conversion practices intended to change or suppress a person's sexual orientation or gender identity in England and Wales. Under the proposal, those found carrying out such practices could face fines and prison sentences of up to five years. The bill would also make it illegal to encourage or assist conversion practices abroad. Supporters argue the law protects vulnerable people from psychological harm and coercion, while critics raise concerns about how the legislation may affect freedom of speech, parental rights, religious expression, and therapeutic conversations. The proposal will now undergo further scrutiny before being debated in Parliament.
