Scottish SNP Faces Criticism Over 'Fundamentally Illiberal' Stance on Gender Self-ID and Conversion Therapy Ban

As the Scottish government seeks to introduce a system that would make legal recognition easier for individuals seeking to transition, criticism has emerged that it is 'against the fundamental principles of liberalism.' The proposed system would allow individuals to legally change their gender simply by self-declaration, without requiring a medical diagnosis.

Campaign activists have voiced opposition as major political parties, including the governing Scottish National Party (SNP), have pledged to ban conversion therapy ahead of the Scottish parliamentary elections. The SNP has promised to prohibit 'harmful conversion practices.'

Opponents of the conversion therapy ban plan argue that abuse and coercive practices are already prohibited under Scottish law. They contend that a ban could strip away the freedom of choice for those experiencing discomfort with their sexual feelings and could criminalise legitimate, well-intentioned activities such as pastoral counselling and parental guidance for children. Lawyer Aidan O'Neill stated that proposals for conversion therapy are 'fundamentally illiberal in both intent and effect,' warning that such laws could criminalise mainstream pastoral activities in churches, mosques, synagogues, and temples.

The Christian Institute opposes the plan through its 'Let Us Pray' campaign, which advocates against potential overreach in the conversion therapy ban. Campaign spokesperson Joanna Timms stated that gay and transgender people are already protected from abuse and coercive practices under Scottish law. She claimed that some campaigners want to force parents and clinicians to direct young people toward medical transition, and to criminalise Christians expressing traditional views on gender and sexual orientation. Joanna Timms added that it is surprising that several major political parties are endorsing legislation that could lead to ordinary people being imprisoned for refusing to yield to the demands of the LGBTQ+ lobby.