Mexico has declared sex reassignment therapies - so-called conversion therapies - a crime. After a long-term campaign by activists of the cause, yesterday the Senate adopted a legislative reform that provides for two to six years in prison for the implementation of practices that aim to change the sexual orientation or gender identity of another person, DPA reported, quoted by BTA.< /strong>
Those who fund or enforce such treatment will also be subject to punishment, the Senate announced after the vote. The most severe sanctions are foreseen if the treatment affects minors. If parents are involved, penalties will be determined by a judge.
The term "conversion therapy" refers to various practices for allegedly treating homosexuality and transsexuality. According to UN experts and human rights defenders, these practices often cause severe physical and mental harm to those affected. The methods used include forced treatment, beatings, isolation and other forms of abuse that activists equate with torture.