Eurasian Key Populations Coalition

On the International S*x Work Day, EKPC stands in solidarity with s*x workers across the Eastern Europe and Central Asia (EECA) region. We recognize the immense challenges and stigma faced by those in the s*x industry, and we are committed to advocating for their rights, safety, and well-being.

1️⃣ The Harsh Realities in the EECA Region

The EECA region has long been a hub for s*x work, driven by socioeconomic factors, gender inequality, and limited employment opportunities. Unfortunately, many s*x workers in this region operate in precarious and often dangerous conditions, facing exploitation, violence, and discrimination from various sectors of society.

2️⃣ EKPC's Commitment to Empowerment

At EKPC, we believe that every individual deserves to live with dignity, respect, and access to essential services. We are dedicated to empowering s*x workers in the EECA region by:

⭐️ Advocating for Decriminalization: We support the decriminalization of s*x work, as criminalization only exacerbates the vulnerabilities faced by s*x workers and hinders their access to essential services.

⭐️Promoting Human Rights: We champion the human rights of s*x workers, including their right to safety, healthcare, and freedom from discrimination and violence.

⭐️ Providing Support Services: We collaborate with local organizations to offer comprehensive support services, including legal aid, healthcare access, and vocational training for those seeking alternative employment opportunities.

⭐️ Raising Awareness: We actively work to combat stigma and misconceptions surrounding s*x work through educational campaigns and community outreach programs.

On the International S*x Work Day, we urge governments, civil society organizations, and individuals to join us in our efforts to create a more just and equitable society for s*x workers in the EECA region. Together, we can break down barriers, challenge harmful stereotypes, and ensure that the rights and dignity of s*x workers are upheld.

EKPC remains steadfast in its commitment to empowering and supporting s*x workers, and we invite you to join us in this crucial endeavor.

EKPC welcomes the official launch of the Council of Europe Gender Equality Strategy 2024-2029 in Strasbourg 🎉

Today, we celebrate a significant milestone in the fight for gender equality as the Council of Europe launches its comprehensive Gender Equality Strategy 2024-2029 in Strasbourg. This landmark strategy marks a crucial step forward in addressing the systemic barriers and discrimination faced by women and non-binary individuals across Europe.

Dr. Badalyan, the EKPC chair has issued an analytical brief: “This Strategy's intersectional approach is particularly noteworthy, as it acknowledges the unique challenges faced by le***an, bis*xual, transgender, and inters*x (LBTI) women. By tackling discrimination based on s*x, gender, s*xual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and other s*x characteristics (SOGIESC), this strategy has the potential to create a more inclusive and equitable society for all of us. The main outlines of the strategy include:

1. Combating Anti-Gender Narratives: The strategy aims to counter the growing tide of anti-gender and "gender-critical" rhetoric that seeks to undermine the progress made in gender equality. This is a crucial step in protecting the rights of women and non-binary individuals from harmful and discriminatory ideologies.

2. Enhancing Policies Against Violence: The strategy prioritizes the development of policies that address violence against women in all their diversity, including LBTI women. This is a critical step in ensuring that all women can live free from fear of violence and discrimination.

3. Promoting Access to Justice and Socio-Economic Rights: The strategy also focuses on enhancing access to justice and socio-economic rights for LBTI women, who often face significant barriers in accessing these essential services.

The launch of the Council of Europe's Gender Equality Strategy 2024-2029 is a beacon of hope for the millions of women and non-binary individuals who have been marginalized and excluded from full participation in society. This strategy is a powerful tool in the fight against discrimination and inequality, and we are committed to working closely with the Council of Europe to ensure its successful implementation”.

Dr. Badalyan emphasized the potential impact of the Strategy on the Eastern Europe and Central Asia (EECA) region, stating: "This Strategy has the power to inspire and guide the efforts of countries in the EECA region to address the unique challenges faced by women and LBTI individuals, particularly in the context of HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment. By aligning their policies and programs with the principles outlined in the Strategy, EECA countries can make significant strides towards achieving gender equality and ending the HIV epidemic. And, here I would suggest 5 tips for EECA Regional Activists on this Strategy “using”.

1️⃣. Familiarize yourself with the Council of Europe Gender Equality Strategy 2024-2029 and its key principles. Use this knowledge to advocate for the adoption and implementation of similar strategies in your own countries.

2️⃣. Engage with local and national governments to ensure that the Strategy's principles are reflected in their policies and programs related to gender equality, HIV/AIDS prevention, and the rights of LBTI individuals.

3️⃣. Build coalitions and partnerships with other civil society organizations, activists, and stakeholders working towards gender equality and HIV/AIDS prevention in the EECA region. Collaborate to amplify your voices and increase the impact of your efforts.

4️⃣. Utilize the Strategy as a tool for capacity building and training of activists, healthcare providers, and community members on issues related to gender equality, LBTI rights, and HIV/AIDS prevention.

5️⃣. Monitor and document the implementation of the Strategy in your countries, and hold governments accountable for their commitments. Use this information to advocate for further progress and to highlight areas where more work is needed.

In Eastern Europe, where gender equality is often under threat, this strategy is particularly crucial. We urge governments in the region to take immediate action to address the systemic barriers and discrimination faced by women and non-binary individuals. The time for change is now, and we will not rest until every individual has the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential."

The impact of this strategy will be felt across the continent, particularly in Eastern Europe where gender equality is often under threat. By adopting an intersectional approach and prioritizing the rights of LBTI women, this strategy has the potential to create a more inclusive and equitable society for all.

Sources:

https://www.coe.int/en/web/portal/-/council-of-europe-adopts-gender-equality-strategy-for-2024-2029

On this International AIDS Candlelight Memorial, observed on May 19th, the Eurasian Key Populations Coalition honors the resilience, courage, and commitment of those affected by HIV/AIDS. This day serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle and the tireless efforts to combat this epidemic.

Today, as we light our candles, we remember those we have lost and reaffirm our commitment to ending the HIV/AIDS epidemic. We stand together, stronger and more determined than ever.

Together, we can and will make a difference.

.0

🌟 Eurasian Key Populations Coalition thrilled to unveil the official slogan for the 2024 Eurasian Gender Academy

**"Choosen"** 🌟

Rector Dr. Badalyan says: “At the heart of this year's theme is the power of choice in shaping gender equality and empowerment. After careful consideration and reflection, we've selected a slogan that embodies our values, mission, and the spirit of this year's academy. This powerful slogan encapsulates our commitment to fostering inclusivity, amplifying diverse perspectives, and igniting meaningful change in the realm of gender equality. believes that every individual has the right to choose their path, their identity, and their future. Through education, advocacy, and action, aims to empower individuals to make informed choices that promote equality and inclusivity”.

Join us at the 2024 Eurasian Gender Academy as we explore the impact of choice on gender dynamics, celebrate diversity, and work towards a more equitable society for all.

Stay tuned for more updates on our exciting lineup of speakers, workshops, and events. Let's come together to champion choice and create a brighter, more inclusive future for everyone!

can't wait to embark on this transformative journey with all of you at the 2024 Eurasian Gender Academy!

2024 is organized in framework of .0

🌟 Exciting Opportunity Alert! 🌟

🔍 Are you dedicated to empowering communities, advocating for gender justice, and tackling the HIV epidemic head-on? If so, we have an incredible opportunity for you: “Gender & HIV” grants for Balkans and EECA region.

Here're 5 insights why your NGO should apply:

1️⃣ Impact: Make a tangible difference in the lives of those affected by HIV/AIDS, particularly vulnerable groups disproportionately affected by gender inequalities.

2️⃣ Empowerment: Use this grant to implement innovative programs and initiatives that address the intersectionality of gender and HIV, empowering individuals and communities to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.

3️⃣ Collaboration: Join a network of like-minded NGOs and experts dedicated to driving positive change in the fields of gender equality and HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment.

4️⃣ Support: Receive dedicated support and guidance throughout the grant application process, ensuring your NGO's proposal stands out and receives the attention it deserves.

5️⃣ Recognition: Showcase your NGO's commitment to gender equity and HIV/AIDS advocacy on a larger platform, amplifying your impact and inspiring others to join the cause.

Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to make a lasting impact! Apply now and be a part of the movement to create a world where gender equality and HIV/AIDS are not just aspirations, but realities for all.

More info at: https://www.eakpc.org/grants

.0

31 марта День видимости Трансгендерных людей!
Трансгендерные люди – часть той нации,где они живут и были рождены Они заслуживают те же права и свободы, что и все граждане, включая фундаментальную свободу быть собой. Все люди созданы быть равными и иметь одинаковое отношение на протяжении всей жизни!

March 31st is Transgender Day of Visibility!
Transgender people are part of the nation where they live and were born. They deserve the same rights and freedoms as all citizens, including the fundamental freedom to be themselves. All people are created to be equal and treated the same throughout their lives!

STAR - The First S*x Workers Collective in the Balkans and ТрансФормА - Transforma has successfully completed program activities within the project “Community Mobilization to Mitigate Funding Cuts and Gender Inequality in National HIV Programs for S*x Workers in North Macedonia”:

✅ 38 female, male and transgender s*x workers in North Macedonia have received HIV testing and counselling;

✅ 12 cases of human rights violations among s*x workers and transgender people in North Macedonia were documented;

✅ 1 Policy Brief for Decision Makers on Strengthening Gender Sensitivity of the National HIV Strategy was developed https://rb.gy/z1sco;

✅ 1 Recommendation Paper: Reducing Gender Barriers Among Transgender People in the National HIV Programs was developed https://rb.gy/67b60.

This project is funded by Eurasian Key Populations Coalition in framework of “Gender and HIV” grants”.

.0

STAR - The First S*x Workers Collective in the Balkans and ТрансФормА - Transforma in collaboration with - Health Education and Research Association have successfully implemented the activity of regional HIV testing and counselling, as part of the project “Community Mobilization to Mitigate Funding Cuts and Gender Inequality in National HIV Programs for S*x Workers in North Macedonia”.

In the period July-October, 8 (eight) shifts for regional HIV testing and counselling were conducted, through which 38 female, male and transgender s*x workers in North Macedonia have received HIV testing and counselling.

This project is funded by in framework of “Gender and HIV” grants”.

.0

Self-group in non-medical care and support services with TG and TG LHIV conducted on 4 of August 2023. With participation of 15 Transgender community member the topic of discussion was the hormonal therapy. Personal experiences and thought were shared, and group discussion on issue has been hold in a three-hour discussion and experience exchanged.
First Support group meeting focused on transgender (TG) and transgender individuals living with HIV (TG LHIV) took place on August 4, 2023. The meeting involved 15 members from the transgender community.
The primary topic of discussion was hormonal therapy. This is a crucial aspect of transgender healthcare, as it involves the use of hormones to align an individual's physical characteristics with their gender identity. Hormonal therapy can include the use of hormones like testosterone or estrogen to induce desired changes such as facial hair growth, voice modulation, breast development, and more.
During the meeting, participants likely shared their personal experiences with hormonal therapy. This could include the effects they observed, both physical and emotional, as well as any challenges they faced. They may have discussed the decision-making process that led them to pursue hormonal therapy, and the support they received from healthcare professionals and their communities.
The group discussion likely provided an opportunity for participants to exchange their thoughts, concerns, and advice regarding hormonal therapy. This kind of dialogue can be incredibly valuable, as it allows individuals to learn from each other's experiences and gain insights that may not be readily available through other sources.
Given that the meeting lasted for three hours, it's evident that there was a significant depth of conversation. This suggests a high level of engagement and a strong desire among participants to share and learn from one another. It also indicates that there was likely a skilled facilitator or structure in place to ensure that the discussion remained focused and productive throughout the duration of the meeting.

Overall, this meeting demonstrates a valuable opportunity for members of the transgender and TG LHIV communities to come together, share their experiences, and support one another in the context of hormonal therapy. It likely fostered a sense of community and provided participants with a safe space to discuss important aspects of their healthcare journeys.
“This project is funded by EKPC in framework of “Gender and HIV” grants” and obligatory using of the following two hashtags: and .0

On July 18, 2023, at the Ministry of Health and Social Protection, a dynamic workshop and discussion were convened to address the formulation of a comprehensive medical protocol specifically tailored for transgender individuals. This protocol is designed to ensure equitable access to healthcare services for transgender and gender-diverse individuals, embodying both a scientific and human rights-oriented approach to transgender healthcare.
During the discussion, Project Officer Coordinator Ersild Myrtollari, Luana and Project Consultant Specialist, Olimbi Hoxhaj, delved into critical aspects from the perspective of the target group. Key questions were raised to ensure the protocol's efficacy:
Does this Clinical Guide align with the standards delineated by the World Health Organization (WHO) for the care of transgender persons?
Have the unique needs of the community been thoroughly considered, and will this guide unequivocally uphold the fundamental standards of care for transgender individuals?
Will this guide be complemented by additional national strategic documents pertinent to gender transformation?
Has been foreseen the inclusion of a psychiatrist within the working group been contemplated, particularly concerning matters of mental health and hormonal therapy?
As the discussion concluded, it was proposed that the forthcoming Policy Document and Recommendations, to be developed at the conclusion of the "Gender and HIV" grants Project, will serve as a guiding compass for the Ministry of Health and Social Protection (MoHSP). This document will chart a course for the MoHSP, furnishing a blueprint for their forthcoming initiatives and interventions in this realm, all with the overarching aim of championing inclusivity, equality, and the overall well-being of transgender individuals in Albania.

“This project is funded by EKPC in framework of “Gender and HIV” grants” and obligatory using of the following two hashtags: and .0

STAR - The First S*x Workers Collective in the Balkans and ТрансФормА - Transforma developed a Policy Brief for Decision Makers on Strengthening Gender Sensitivity of the National HIV Strategy, as part of the project “Community Mobilization to Mitigate Funding Cuts and Gender Inequality in National HIV Programs for S*x Workers in North Macedonia”.
“To have doctors who are not going to discriminate us, not only when it comes to HIV, but about everything in general. Whenever I go to see a doctor, I get weird looks and I always encounter all sorts of obstacles” – quote by transgender man who participated in the research
The key priorities regarding HIV services vary depending on the needs of each key population, but to the greatest extent the respondents from all key populations believe that transgender people should be recognized as a separate key population for which special and appropriate HIV prevention services should be provided. The education and sensitization of healthcare personnel regarding their specific problems and needs and the availability of healthcare services without stigma and discrimination are of particular importance for all key populations. Confidentiality and privacy are also key factors in the access to HIV and SRH services, irrespective of where those services are received.
This project is funded by Eurasian Key Populations Coalition in framework of “Gender and HIV” grants”.
.0

In the month of October,STAR - The First S*x Workers Collective in the Balkans and ТрансФормА - Transforma in collaboration with - Health Education and Research Association, continue to provide regional HIV testing and counselling for s*x workers and transgender people.
This activity contributes towards removing the newly risen barriers to HIV testing and counselling for s*x workers and transgender people by providing easier access to services, as part of the project “Community Mobilization to Mitigate Funding Cuts and Gender Inequality in National HIV Programs for S*x Workers in North Macedonia”.
This project is funded by Eurasian Key Populations Coalition in framework of “Gender and HIV” grants”.
.0

After analyzing data collection from community members from key populations (s*x workers, transgender people, men who have s*x with men, people who use drugs, and people living with HIV), STAR - The First S*x Workers Collective in the Balkans and ТрансФормА - Transforma are in the process of developing a Policy Brief for Decision Makers on Strengthening Gender Sensitivity of the National HIV Strategy.
This activity aims to support national advocacy for strengthening the gender sensitivity of the National HIV Strategy, as part of the project “Community Mobilization to Mitigate Funding Cuts and Gender Inequality in National HIV Programs for S*x Workers in North Macedonia”.
This project is funded by Eurasian Key Populations Coalition in framework of “Gender and HIV” grants”.
.0

For the period July-September, STAR - The First S*x Workers Collective in the Balkans and ТрансФормА - Transforma, documented 8 (eight) cases of human rights violations among s*x workers and transgender people in North Macedonia.
We continue with this activity in the month of October, which aims to strengthen and encourage the community members to document cases of human right violations, as part of the project “Community Mobilization to Mitigate Funding Cuts and Gender Inequality in National HIV Programs for S*x Workers in North Macedonia”.
Due to public and institutional stigma related to s*xual identities and behavior, s*x workers and transgender people fear to document and report human rights violations and violence, which makes them institutionally invisible and isolates them from the institutional social, legal and health protection.
This project is funded by Eurasian Key Populations Coalition in framework of “Gender and HIV” grants”.
.0

STAR - The First S*x Workers Collective in the Balkans and ТрансФормА - Transforma developed a Questionnaire for community members from key populations (s*x workers, transgender people, men who have s*x with men, people who use drugs, and people living with HIV) aimed to determine the shortcomings and priorities for improving gender sensitivity of the National HIV Strategy in North Macedonia.
25 community members from key populations were interviewed, and we have started with developing a Policy Brief for Decision Makers on Strengthening Gender Sensitivity of the National HIV Strategy.
This project is funded by Eurasian Key Populations Coalition in framework of “Gender and HIV” grants”.
.0

Until now, in the months of July and August, STAR - The First S*x Workers Collective in the Balkans and ТрансФормА - TransformaTransFormA in collaboration with HERA - Health Education and Research Association, conducted 4 (four) shifts for regional HIV testing and counselling, through which about 20 female, male and transgender s*x workers in North Macedonia were covered.
The aim of this activity is to remove barriers to HIV testing and counselling for s*x workers and transgender people outside of Skopje.

This project is funded by Eurasian Key Populations Coalition in framework of “Gender and HIV” grants”.
.0

This month, STAR - The First S*x Workers Collective in the Balkans and ТрансФормА - Transforma in collaboration with - Health Education and Research Association, have started with regional HIV testing and counselling for s*x workers and transgender people in Strumica and Gostivar. The first shift for HIV testing and counselling is scheduled for Gostivar on August 24, 2023.

The aim of this activity is to remove barriers to HIV testing and counselling for s*x workers and transgender people outside of Skopje.

The Ministry of Health cut additional 40% of the funds allocated to HIV prevention in the 2023 National HIV Prevention Programme. In this way, the State has put the established HIV infection management capacities for key populations at risk of extinction and has endangered the health of at least 10,000 citizens from the marginalised communities.

Additionally, transgender people in North Macedonia are faced with inequalities when it comes to their access to healthcare, which infers a limited access to quality healthcare services pertaining to routine healthcare, as well as services related to HIV prevention.

This project is funded by in framework of “Gender and HIV” grants”.

.0

STAR - The First S*x Workers Collective in the Balkans and ТрансФормА - Transforma have started with monitoring and documenting of human right violations of s*x workers and transgender people in North Macedonia, within the frame of the project “Community Mobilization to Mitigate Funding Cuts and Gender Inequality in National HIV Programs for S*x Workers in North Macedonia”.

The aim of this activity is to strengthen and encourage the community members to document cases of human right violations.

S*x workers and transgender people in North Macedonia are one of the most marginalized communities facing cross-cutting discrimination and stigma leading to violation of human rights, violence and harassment. Due to public and institutional stigma related to s*x work, rights violations and violence go undocumented and s*x workers are institutionally invisible.

This project is funded by Eurasian Key Populations Coalition framework of “Gender and HIV” grants”.

.0

Эксперты/ки ЕКОМ участвовали на встрече в Варшаве и обсуждали отмену уголовного преследования ВИЧ/СПИД. В разных регионах искали общий подход к этой проблеме, включая изменение законов.

Организация UNAIDS установила цели 10-10-10 до 2025 года. Они направлены на защиту прав и равенство.

🔴Первая цель: менее 10% стран должны отказывать людям в доступе к помощи из-за законов, люди не могут получить лечение и предотвратить распространение вируса. Поэтому важно создавать условия, чтобы все люди могли получить помощь безопасно.

🔴Вторая цель: менее 10% людей с ВИЧ и важные группы должны страдать от стигмы и дискриминации, ставить плюс или минус в отношении людей из-за их ВИЧ-статуса неправильно и несправедливо. Устранение стигмы и дискриминации очень важно для того, чтобы все люди имели равные возможности.

🔴Третья цель: менее 10% женщин, девочек и людей с ВИЧ должны подвергаться гендерному неравенству и насилию, это вредит здоровью и благополучию людей по всему миру. Поэтому важно бороться с этими проблемами и обеспечить равные права для всех.

Для достижения этих целей нужно не только изменять правовой и политический контекст, но и преодолевать социальные и культурные барьеры.

Цели UNAIDS отражают желание создать справедливый мир.

completed the technical review of applications for grants “Gender & HIV 2023”, which is funded in framework of .0

Unlike previous years, applications from the Balkan countries are in the lead this year, which requires in-depth analysis to clarify the high need for resources for projects to reduce Gender barriers in the Balkan countries.

2023 recipients will be announced on June 20.

On February 3-5, 2023, the training course for national REActors was held, in which the pre-selected REActors of the three Armenian organizations, part of the two-year "REAct Armenia" project - "New Generation" humanitarian NGO, "National Trans Coalition" human rights NGO and "Eurasian Key Populations Coalition " NGO, took part.
The course was conducted by REAct Regional Coordinator Victoria Kalinyuk, an expert from the Alliance for Public Health.
At the start of the training, the representatives of the NGOs, part of the consortium, welcomed all the participants, emphasized the importance of documentation of cases of human rights violations in Armenia as a countermeasure to the obstacles to HIV services.
Through three-day intensive courses, workshops, teamwork and practical work, the participating REActors learned to identify the obligations of the state in the protection of human rights, distinguished human rights violations, stereotypes, stigma, discrimination, violence.
The expert also introduced the participants to the REACT online tool where they should document the cases of human rights violations recorded by them.
The training was held in an atmosphere of active discussions and question-and-answer sessions, during which the participants enriched their theoretical and practical knowledge.
The project is funded by the Global Fund to Fight HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria through the Alliance for Public Health in framework of .0.

"Eurasian Key Populations Coalition " NGO, "New Generation" humanitarian NGO and "National Trans Coalition" human rights NGO are happy to announce that they are starting the joint implementation of the two-year project "REAct Armenia" in Armenia. The project is funded by the Global Fund to Fight HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria through the Alliance for Public Health. A key objective of the program is to remove barriers to services for key populations by promoting health interventions based on human rights principles. "Determining the existing stigma, discrimination and violence against the key populations in Armenia, as well as emphasizing the need to document the cases of human rights violations, discrimination, and violence against the key populations, and based on this, the implementation of joint efforts to protect interests, we have combined and consolidated a multi-year experience and capabilities of our organizations for the welfare and well-being of our communities",- says the "REAct Armenia" project national coordinator K. Badalyan.