Ten years ago (circa 2016), Malta was the first country in Europe to ban conversion practices.
95% confidence
EqualityMalta
Omissions
The ban specifically came into effect in December 2016 (Act LV of 2016).
The law criminalizes conversion practices related to both sexual orientation and gender identity, with penalties including fines up to €5,000 and/or imprisonment.
Sources
PrimaryMaltese Legislation - Act LV of 2016Affirmation of Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Gender Expression Act, Chapter 567, enacted 9th December 2016. Section 3 criminalizes conversion practices with penalties of €1,000-€5,000 and/or 1-6 months imprisonment.
SecondaryThe GuardianMalta became the first country in Europe to ban gay conversion therapy after parliament unanimously approved a bill outlawing the practice in December 2016.
SecondaryBBC NewsMalta became the first European country to ban gay conversion therapy in December 2016.
SecondaryNew York TimesMalta criminalized therapeutic methods that purport to change a person's sexual orientation or gender identity in December 2016, becoming the first European nation to do so.