Cyprus - May 2023

A new law introduced by the Progressive Party of Working People (Akel) amends the penal code to criminalise any conversion practice aiming to change an individual’s sexual orientation or gender identity and to prohibit advertising of conversion practices. The penalty is imprisonment for up to two years and/or a fine of up to EUR 5,000, with more severe penalties for conversion practices committed against a minor. LGBTQIA+ rights organisation IGLYO celebrated a “major step towards the protection and safety of LGBTQIA+ youth in Cyprus.” An 11th hour amendment with support from far-right ELAM party, and after lobbying from the Church of Cyprus, ensured that third parties including priests will be allowed to continue running confessions and acting as counsellors to members of the LGBTQIA+ community.

Sources: IGLYO, in-Cyprus, Cyprus Mail (1), Cyprus Mail (2), Church of Cyprus