Transgender Europe
Transgender Europe (TGEU) - A Voice for Trans Rights in Europe and Central Asia
editAbout TGEU
editTransgender Europe (TGEU) is a trans-led non-profit organization that advocates for the rights and well-being of trans people in Europe and Central Asia. Founded in 2005, TGEU has established itself as a legitimate and influential voice for the trans community. In 2018, TGEU expanded its regional focus to include Central Asia and now represents over 200 member organizations in more than 50 countries.
Mission and Values
editThe mission of TGEU is to strengthen the rights and well-being of trans people in Europe and Central Asia. TGEU aims to represent the diverse needs of its members within human rights mechanisms, to strengthen the capacities and abilities of members to serve local communities, and to develop intersectional and decolonial programs to build more resilient and interconnected trans movements.
TGEU is based on a set of values that promote an atmosphere of kindness, trust, safety, appreciation, and collaboration. The organization emphasizes celebrating resilience and diversity within communities and advocates for the participation and voice of communities to identify common goals and pursue solutions cooperatively.
Key Activities
editTGEU focuses on three primary areas of work:
Advocacy
editTGEU advocates for laws and policies that protect and support trans people. This includes working with the EU and the UN, as well as providing advocacy materials and tools for local activists and policymakers. TGEU has made significant contributions to the introduction of self-determination laws for legal gender recognition in several countries[2].
Community
editTGEU invests in building resilient and sustainable trans communities and movements. The organization offers a strong and diverse network of trans activists, capacity building and skill sharing, as well as regular workshops and one-on-one sessions with the TGEU team. Every two years, TGEU hosts the European Trans Council, the largest gathering of trans activists in Europe and Central Asia[2][5].
Research
editTGEU conducts and publishes essential research to identify key issues and needs of trans communities. Flagship research projects include the Trans Murder Monitoring, the Trans Rights Index & Map, and the Trans Health Map. This research provides verified data that helps activists and policymakers create laws and procedures that protect trans lives[2].
Sustainability Goals and Initiatives
editTGEU is committed to creating a world free from discrimination, where gender diversity is celebrated and trans people are valued. The organization advocates for an intersectional and decolonial approach that considers historical, social, and political contexts to create processes and practices that address different forms of oppression and discrimination. TGEU emphasizes the importance of liberating marginalized groups and seeks to center these experiences through increased representation and empowerment within its structures and approaches[1].
Culture of Reflection and Well-being
editTGEU places great importance on reflective processes that involve constant questioning, listening, learning, and sharing. The organization fosters a stimulating environment that welcomes diverse thoughts, values critical analysis, and allows space for innovative ideas and creativity. Furthermore, TGEU is committed to ensuring the well-being and sustainability of all involved and emphasizes the importance of self-care and collective well-being[1].
Transgender Europe is thus a central force in the fight for the rights and well-being of trans people, playing a significant role in creating a more inclusive and just society through its comprehensive efforts in advocacy, community building, and research.