The Future Frontiers of Trans Activism. Regional Dialogues on Policy, Resistance, and Rights

On 6 May 2026, Working Group 3 organised an event dedicated to European trans activism in collaboration with the COST Action Outreach Coordinator, Maryna Shevtsova. Trans activism is facing shifting terrains across Central and Eastern Europe and the Global South — from bold moves towards depathologisation and self-identification, to renewed waves of restriction, pathologisation and exclusion driven by far-right and neoconservative actors, as well as so-called TERF mobilisations.

This outreach event brought together activists, advocacy workers and scholars from various national and regional contexts to share their insights. Speakers presented case studies from the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Georgia as they reflected on the policies shaping the lives of trans people, particularly with regard to legal and medical transition, recognition, and reproductive and sexual rights. We discussed the trends, tensions and solidarity defining the current moment.

We identified pushback against trans people's rights in the form of legal activism and political bans targeting representation, including Pride marches, often under the guise of "protecting children". We also identified limitations and bans on gender-affirming care and medical/legal transition. However, we also identified new frontiers and endeavours, such as better access to services for trans people, seeking cooperation with professionals working in services, and improving access to power (there is a need for more trans people in positions of power). Another endeavour is litigation, as conventional lobbying is becoming less effective due to the limited number of allies.

Thank you all for coming and keep resisting!