Tag: LGBTQ

Hate on the street: the battle for safety and respect in Albania

Post author By velyunsky
Post date November 20, 2024

Elvira (name changed), a trans* woman living in N, was the victim of a violent attack that was motivated by transphobia. One evening, as she was returning home, a group of people approached her and started harassing her with derogatory, transphobic insults. Despite her attempts to avoid confrontation and quickly leave, the situation escalated rapidly.

The group surrounded the victim and the abuse became physical. The perpetrators continued to make derogatory comments, emphasizing the hateful nature of the attack related to her gender identity. The attackers left no room for doubt that it was transphobia that motivated the violence. As a result of the attack, the woman suffered serious injuries and had to seek medical attention and, REActors. At this point, the case is in their work.

This incident was a clear example of how trans* people, especially in countries with limited protection of LGBTIQ+ rights, are subjected to violence and abuse solely based on their gender identity. The attack, which was the result of outright hatred and bias, left deep trauma both physically and psychologically.

Such incidents emphasize the need to create safe spaces for trans* people and improve state policies to protect the rights of LGBTIQ+ communities. An important step towards a safe society is not only criminalizing such crimes but also educating the public to exclude all forms of violence and discrimination based on gender identity.

When the right to safety is a privilege: the story of a trans* woman from Armenia

Post author By velyunsky
Post date October 3, 2024

Arevik (name changed), a trans* woman from Armenia, faced aggression and violence while in a public place in N city. While on the street at night, she was targeted by a group of young men who started threatening her using harsh words, insults, and threats. One of them stated that “this is their territory” and they would not tolerate the presence of “such a perverted spoiled animal”.

The group of guys did not stop at words: they started dragging Arevik by her arms, pushing her, thus creating a real threat to her safety. At this point, Arevik decided to call REActor, and together they called the police.

After the intervention of the law enforcement agencies, the patrolmen detained the aggressors and they were given an educational talk. The offenders were released after writing an explanatory statement.

As much as it may seem like a step towards justice, this case highlights the serious problem of discrimination and violence against trans* people in Armenia. Although the police intervened, the outcome leaves many questions, especially in the context of how seriously the country takes the protection of community rights. It also raises the issue of the lack of training of law enforcement agencies in dealing with LGBTIQ+ people and the importance of creating more inclusive and protective mechanisms.

REAct Communiqué: Condemning the murder of Kesaria Abramidze and the adoption of an anti-LGBTIQ+ legislative package in Georgia

Post author By velyunsky
Post date September 19, 2024

REAct expresses its deepest sorrow and outrage over the brutal murder of Kesaria Abramidze, a prominent transgender model and activist, and strongly condemns the passage of anti-LGBTIQ+ legislation in Georgia that threatens the rights and freedoms of key groups.

“The death of Kesaria Abramidze is a clear indication that violence and discrimination against vulnerable communities in Georgia has reached a critical level. Her death, amidst the numerous incidents of violence she has been subjected to over the years, demonstrates how dangerous the climate of intolerance and disregard for the rights of transgender people and the LGBTIQ+ community as a whole is becoming. We call for an immediate, objective investigation into this crime and for those responsible to be brought to justice.” – said Tetiana Deshko, Director of International Programs, Alliance for Public Health.

Kesaria’s tragic death occurred against the backdrop of the anti-LGBTIQ+ legislative package passed by the Georgian Parliament on September 17. This package, hiding behind the rhetoric of protecting “family values,” not only violates the rights of the LGBTIQ+ community but also restricts the basic freedoms of all citizens. The adopted law strengthens censorship and impedes the right to peaceful assembly and demonstration. This opens a dangerous precedent in which the rights of any group can be easily violated, setting the stage for wider repression in the future.

32 non-governmental organizations, as well as the Venice Commission, have condemned the package of laws, stressing that it does not address the real problems faced by families and minors in Georgia – such as poverty, inflation, increased emigration, and problems with access to basic services. The legislation is aimed at manipulating public opinion and creating barriers to Georgia’s European integration. The adoption of these laws is a step backward in the democratic development of the country and demonstrates the authorities’ refusal to fulfill international obligations to protect human rights.

“We appeal to the Georgian authorities to cancel this legislative package and ensure the protection of the rights and freedoms of all citizens, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation. These repressive measures, accompanied by an increase in violence, demonstrate systemic human rights problems in Georgia, which requires decisive and immediate action.” – emphasizes Victoria Kalyniuk, REAct System Coordinator for the Eastern Europe and Central Asia region, Alliance for Public Health.

REAct expresses solidarity with Georgia’s LGBTIQ+ community and all those affected by this legislation and continues to stand up for the rights and dignity of key groups in the country and the region.

Resisting discrimination: a new chapter in the struggle for LGBTQIA+ rights in Kazakhstan

Post author By velyunsky
Post date July 20, 2024

The LGBTQIA+ community in Kazakhstan is going through a difficult and tense period. Late last year, a local NGO published a social video on Instagram featuring queer couples, which attracted public attention, garnering over 6,400 views. The video resonated widely, receiving both positive feedback and negative comments, many of which contained hate speech.

In May 2024, a petition entitled “We are against open and hidden propaganda of LGBT in the Republic of Kazakhstan!” appeared on the portal “E-Petition.kz”. The initiative was authored by the anti-gender group “Kazakhstan Union of Parents”, which previously actively opposed vaccination during the pandemic, as well as the law on domestic violence and tougher punishment for bullying. The petition gathered 50,000 signatures in a short period – less than two weeks – the required number for it to be considered by the Ministry of Culture and Information. The rapid mobilization of signatures raised questions, as according to eyewitness reports and screenshots, civil servants and quasi-government employees were coerced into signing the petition along with another initiative to ban gambling among officials. One queer activist noted that the surge in signature-gathering activity took place during working hours, which heightened suspicions.

After the petition was accepted for review, a working group began to form to discuss its implications. Many LGBTQIA+ activists, human rights defenders, and lawyers applied to join the group. However, according to the authorities, due to the limited submission deadline – only 10 days – and technical reasons, a significant number of applicants were not selected. As a result, of the 51 people included in the working group, more than 40 supported the adoption of the petition, while only 7 opposed it.

The first meeting of the working group was held on June 21, and the process continued through early August. At these meetings, supporters of the petition actively used hate speech and discriminatory language. Even though the petition violated several international conventions on civil and political rights, the majority of the group’s participants were in favor of its adoption.

Against this backdrop, the LGBTQIA+ community and human rights defenders mobilized. Organizations (including those with national REActors) actively assisted victims by engaging the media and international partners, as well as providing legal advice on how to file complaints and challenge the petition through administrative procedures. Although most members of the working group supported the discriminatory measures, activists and human rights defenders united to form a strong front of opposition.

The petition drew attention to the problem of discrimination against LGBTQIA+ people in Kazakhstan, becoming an important catalyst for further struggle for their rights. This story demonstrates how the unity and determination of activists can help to counter the tide of discrimination and stand up for the rights of people. While the final results of the fight are not yet known, one thing is clear – the LGBTQIA+ community is not alone, and it has strong support.

Confronting harassment: a disturbing incident in Albania

Post author By velyunsky
Post date June 22, 2024

In the late hours of the night, Elira (name changed), a transgender girl, was walking through the area N in her city. It was a time when the streets were quiet, and the usual hustle and bustle of the city had died down. As she walked, an unknown man noticed her and approached.

Initially, the perpetrator sought sexual favors from Elira. When she refused, the situation quickly escalated. The man’s demeanor changed, and he began to threaten and intimidate her. His words and actions were so severe that Elira was left in a terrible emotional state, visibly shaken and distressed.

Recognizing the seriousness of the incident, Elira reached out for help, and her case was promptly taken up by the REActors. The incident details were meticulously documented. The case is currently being resolved, with the REActors working diligently to ensure that Elira receives the justice and support she deserves.

This incident highlights the dangers and emotional trauma that LGBTIQ+ individuals, like Elira, can face simply for being themselves. It underscores the urgent need for greater protection, support, and awareness to ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable communities in our society.

Threats and cyberbullying against a non-binary person in Kazakhstan

Post author By velyunsky
Post date June 5, 2024

An incident that occurred last year and had a continuation in early 2024 related to Aruzhan (name changed). They are 21 years old, non-binary person, LGBTIQ+ activist. A university student saw Aruzhan’s recent posts regarding their civic activities and the attacks associated with them. This student, who was part of a group that had previously cyberbullying and threatening Aruzhan with violence because of their participation in a Pride Flag community event, began posting insults and threats again in a closed group on Telegram under an anonymous nickname.

The insults included derogatory terms and phrases, as well as threats of violence, such as “I’m itching to smack him in the back alley”. Aruzhan’s friend who was a member of the group forwarded screenshots of the messages. The client, despite the fact that they were now out of the attacker’s reach, were very worried about their safety and feared that they might be found and harmed.

This situation is an example of cyber-bullying and threats that violate the human rights to safe existence and protection from discrimination, in particular against LGBTIQ+ persons, and can also have significant psychological and physical consequences.

To protect their rights, Aruzhan sought the help of REActors. In response to the threats and cyberbullying, the REActors prepared and wrote a complaint to the university administration. Cyberbullying and threats of violence are prohibited by law and should be prosecuted. It is important that educational institutions and other institutions protect their students from such actions and create a safe environment for all, regardless of their gender identity and sexual orientation.

Breaking barriers: combatting sexual orientation prejudice in Azerbaijan

Post author By velyunsky
Post date April 21, 2024

Murad (name changed), a 20-year-old science student at a university, has faced immense challenges in his young life. At the age of 15, he discovered his sexual orientation when he fell in love with a friend. This realization brought him face-to-face with the harsh realities of prejudice and discrimination. As the only child of elderly parents, Murad took great pains to shield them from potential rumors and the societal backlash that could devastate them.

Despite his efforts to maintain a low profile, Murad’s secret was threatened when a classmate discovered his truth. The classmate menacingly suggested revealing Murad’s sexual orientation to his family, a prospect that filled Murad with dread. For Murad, the thought of his parents suffering because of his identity was unbearable.

In his distress, Murad reached out to REActor. Understanding the gravity of the situation, REActor referred Murad to a lawyer for immediate assistance. The lawyer arranged to meet Murad at the NGO Struggle Against AIDS (SAAPU) office to discuss the best course of action.

Following the lawyer’s advice, Murad invited the threatening classmate to a meeting. Though initially hesitant, the classmate agreed to attend. During the meeting, the lawyer calmly and firmly outlined the legal repercussions of mental abuse and blackmail. Confronted with the serious consequences of his actions, the classmate had a change of heart. He apologized to Murad and assured him that he would respect his privacy going forward.

Murad’s story highlights the fundamental importance of privacy as a human right. Privacy underpins freedom of association, thought, and expression, as well as freedom from discrimination. While different countries and individuals hold varying views on privacy, the rights of all human beings must be safeguarded, regardless of the obstacles they face. And thanks to the ongoing support and advocacy of organizations such as SAAPU and the work of REActors, the situation in the country is changing.

Showing strength: International Transgender Day of Visibility

Post author By velyunsky
Post date March 31, 2024

March 31 is International Transgender Day of Visibility, which is dedicated to supporting, recognizing, and raising awareness of the rights of transgender people around the world. It is a time to raise important issues related to the transgender community and stimulate public dialog about the importance of respect and equality.

In the Eastern Europe and Central Asia (EECA) region, the visibility and rights situation for transgender people remains complex and multifaceted. Laws and policies in individual countries restrict community rights, including access to health care, gender reassignment, and protection from discrimination. In 2023 alone, national REActors documented 1,109 complaints from members of the LGBTIQ community in the region. The most common violations of the rights of transgender people are discrimination, insults, harassment, threats, and, alas, often it even comes to attacks. An example happened in Armenia with a transgender girl, an activist, and an employee of a local NGO. While testing and counseling a client for HIV, she was attacked by a stranger. With the participation of REActors, it was possible to record the facts of the crime and ensure the initiation of a criminal case. Another egregious case occurred in Tajikistan – a transgender woman was detained without reason by law enforcement officials and her personal belongings were confiscated. Interrogations began. This put the victim in an extremely difficult situation. REActors were able to provide legal defense by finding a lawyer willing to take on the case and defend her rights. They were also able to raise the necessary funds for the client to leave the country safely. Thanks to their support, after two months, the case was closed and the belongings were returned.

The fight to protect the rights of transgender people in the EECA region remains relevant and important. A lot of work is still needed, but the situation is gradually changing for the better, mainly due to the active role of transgender people themselves in this process. They invest a great deal of interest in creating changes that directly affect their lives and well-being (because for the majority of authorities, who are usually people who are not uncomfortable with gender conformity, alas, these issues may seem less important or irrelevant). Local non-governmental organizations and community groups are also actively working for the benefit of transgender people in the EECA region, providing them with support, information, and protection from discrimination and violence. These efforts play an important role in raising awareness and creating a safe and supportive environment for transgender people. It is important to continue to mobilize public opinion, give support to the transgender community, and work to create laws and policies that protect their rights and dignity.

On International Transgender Day of Visibility, each of us can do something important to show our support. Here are a few ways you can do that:

1. Education and awareness: learn more about transgender issues, history, and the fight for transgender people’s rights. The more we know, the better we can support their fight for equal rights and opportunities.

2. active listening and support: listen to the stories and experiences of transgender people without judgment. Support them by expressing your support and solidarity. Have an open dialog and be willing to listen to their needs and experiences.

3. Participate in events: take part in events to commemorate International Transgender Day of Visibility. These can be rallies, public lectures, marches, or other events to raise awareness and support for the transgender community.

4. Utilize social media: share transgender people’s stories, relevant articles, and resources to spread the word about March 31 and the importance of supporting this community.

5. Financial support: support organizations and charities working to benefit the transgender community. You can make donations or participate in fundraisers to help fund support and advocacy programs.

6. Fight for rights: engage in active resistance to discrimination and violence against transgender people. Support legislative initiatives and policies to protect their rights and ensure equality before the law.

7. Respect Identity: respect and recognize everyone’s gender identity. Use correct pronouns and respect their choice of name and expression of their gender.

Showing support and solidarity with transgender people is an important step towards creating a society where everyone can feel respected and protected, regardless of gender identity.

Celebrating LGBTIQ history month in Eastern Europe and Central Asia: a journey of resilience and progress

Post author By velyunsky
Post date February 21, 2024

February is LGBTIQ History Month – a time to shine a spotlight on the actions and achievements of members of the LGBTIQ community throughout history. While the recognition and celebration of history are global, it’s essential to acknowledge the unique experiences and challenges faced by LGBTIQ individuals in different regions, particularly in Eastern Europe and Central Asia (EECA).

The history of LGBTIQ rights and activism in EECA is complex and varied. Discrimination, violence, and harassment remain widespread, fueled by cultural, religious, and political factors. In some countries, laws targeting LGBTIQ individuals continue to exist, restricting their rights to freedom of expression, assembly, and association.

There are 57 organizations in the REAct system providing health services to members of the LGBTIQ community. In 2023 alone, 1,109 referrals were documented and this number remains among the leaders:

Registered cases	Other countries	Ukraine
Key group (people, who use drugs)	1279	707
Key group (people living with HIV)	1683	1152
Key group (sex workers)	1054	347
Key group (LGBTIQ)	1109	437

Main types of perpetrators (by countries where REAct works and for all years). As a rule, violence against victims is perpetrated by private individuals.

Police	516
Family, relatives	300
Acquaintances	173
Hate group	175
Husband/wife, intimate partner	137
Other specialised doctor, NOT related to HIV/AIDS and TB	101
Client of sex worker	82
Employer	104
Representative of the same key group	72
Neighbours	96
AIDS center or other doctor related to HIV/AIDS	65
Business, shops, service sector	56
Hospital, inpatient facility	57
Homeowner or landowner	42
Special law enforcement services	35
Military, army	25
Political representatives	21
University	21
Migration service (state service	15
Border guards	13
Media and journalists	13
School	10

Main types of violations (by countries where REAct operates and for all years)

Hate speech, verbal abuse	913
Threatening, intimidation, harassment	867
Violence by individuals based on hatred	571
Extortion, blackmail	260
Public outing, defamation	208
Eviction, coercion to leave the residence	188
Arbitrary arrest or detention	167
Misuse of power by law enforcement	165
Other breach of privacy	151
Sexual assault/abuse	148
Domestic/intimate partner violence	130
Excessive use of force by law enforcement	118
Destruction of property, motivated by hatred	108
Dismissal, denial of employment	99
Denial of protection and investigation by the police	81
Refusal to provide hospital care and other medical service	74
Psychological mistreatment in public health facility	68

Thus, in modern Tajikistan, representatives of the LGBTIQ community face serious violations of their rights. Detentions under Article 241 of the Criminal Code (distribution of pornography) have become more frequent in the country. The grounds for such charges are personal intimate photos found on the phones of the accused or intimate correspondence. Renata’s story is an important example of the continuing struggle for rights and freedom and emphasizes the need to support and protect those who face discrimination and persecution because of their gender and sexual identity.

Kazakhstan recorded an incident involving Danara, a 25-year-old queer woman and LGBTIQ activist. Her story was a powerful example of the struggle to ensure equal rights and non-discrimination in the workplace, regardless of their sexual orientation.

In Armenia, a trans woman, activist, and employee of a local NGO was attacked. Thanks to her courage and determination, her attacker was apprehended and a criminal case was opened. Her story served as a reminder that everyone can and should fight for their rights and the rights of others.

However, despite these challenges, there have been significant strides towards equality and acceptance in recent years. One of the key aspects of LGBTIQ history in this region is the resilience and courage of activists who fight tirelessly for their rights from grassroots movements to organized protests. To challenge discriminatory laws and societal attitudes. The visibility of LGBTIQ issues has increased thanks in part to the efforts of activists, organizations, and allies. Pride events, film festivals, and other cultural initiatives have helped to raise awareness and foster a sense of community among LGBTIQ individuals.

Moreover, there have been notable advances in terms of legal recognition and protection for LGBTIQ rights in certain countries. For example, Estonia has legalized same-sex partnerships, while others have introduced measures to combat discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

It’s also important to recognize the role of international organizations and human rights bodies in promoting LGBTIQ rights in EECA. The European Union, the Council of Europe, and the United Nations have all called on countries in the region to respect and protect the rights of LGBTIQ individuals. These efforts help to push for legislative reforms and provide support to local activists and organizations.

By standing in solidarity with LGBTIQ individuals and supporting their rights, it is worth noting that LGBTIQ History Month provides an opportunity to honor the achievements and contributions of community in EECA, while also acknowledging the challenges it continues to face. However through activism, advocacy, and solidarity, we can strive to create a world where everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, can live with dignity, equality, and respect.

Celebrating diversity and resilience: NGO National Trans Coalition (Armenia) marks World Tolerance Day and Anniversary

Post author By velyunsky
Post date November 28, 2023

On November 16, World Tolerance Day is commemorated globally, a day that holds special significance for the National Trans Coalition Human Rights NGO (NTC) as it coincides with the organization’s anniversary. Under the theme “Celebrate diversity!”, this year’s event convened approximately 200 representatives from state institutions, diplomatic missions, international and local organizations, communities, and various stakeholders.

The commemoration began with welcoming speeches and congratulatory notes, followed by the NTC team presenting the organization’s accomplishments over the past year. They shared the annual report, highlighting statistics on human rights violations, instances of stigma and discrimination, as well as cases of violence stemming from intolerance. After the formal segment of the event, participants engaged in treatment sessions, free-flowing conversations, and discussions.

The primary focus of NTC remains the eradication of intolerance directed towards trans*, non-binary, and gender-diverse individuals in Armenia. As the organization celebrates another year of resilience, unity, and solidarity, they take a moment to reflect on those lost, acknowledging their strength in the face of adversity. A firm commitment is made to combat transphobia, aspiring to contribute to the creation of a better, safer, and more inclusive world for everyone.

Expressing gratitude for the journey thus far, the NTC remains steadfast in its dedication to the cause and a home for many.

Fighting for one’s rights and the rights of others: the story of an attack on a trans woman in Armenia

Post author By velyunsky
Post date October 24, 2023

One summer day in the life of Karine (name changed), an event occurred that was a testament to her courage. Karine, a trans woman, activist, and employee of the NGO New Generation, was working to provide HIV testing and counseling. However, she faced a challenge that she had to take on.

While doing her job, Karine was attacked by a stranger. The man, possibly after learning that Karine was a trans woman, began to insult her and interfere with her HIV prevention activities. Despite the aggression and threats, the NGO New Generation staff decided to keep their cool and leave the testing site.

However, at that moment the situation took an even more frightening turn. The attacker didn’t just stop at words. He attacked Karine, inflicting grievous bodily harm. The person being tested rushed away from the scene, leaving Karine alone. However, the client did not give up in the face of aggression. She immediately contacted the police, and law enforcement officials arrived at the scene. The attacker was detained and a criminal case was opened. It is unclear at this stage whether Karine and the attacker were acquaintances or whether it was a random attack.

Legal support for Karine is being provided by an NGO. With the participation of REActors, it was possible to record the crime and ensure the initiation of criminal proceedings. Thanks to the assistance of paralegals, Karine was sent for a forensic medical examination. The criminal case is currently under review.

The story serves as a reminder of the importance of human rights and the protection of those facing violence and discrimination. The client’s fearless behavior and determination raise an important point about the importance of continuing to fight for equal rights and justice. And that everyone can fight for their rights and the rights of others.

Also read:

Protecting the rights of transgender women in Tajikistan

Incident in Moldova with disclosure of medical information

Tags Armenia, Human Rights, LGBTQ

Response stories

Protecting the rights of transgender women in Tajikistan

Post author By velyunsky
Post date October 12, 2023

In modern Tajikistan, as in many countries, transgender people face serious violations of their rights, including discrimination and harassment. In this context, we consider a case that illustrates the struggle of the LGBT community in Tajikistan for their rights and freedom.

The story of Renata (name changed) provides an important example. Renata decided to return to her home country from Russia, where she was working and living, in order to change her gender status in a new passport. However, her plans were seriously disrupted upon arrival. Police officers took an interest in her personal life when Renata went to the police station to support her friend who had been detained. After the law enforcers learned that she was transgender, obsessive intense interrogation activities began and her cell phone, which contained many personal details, was seized. Although Renata was subsequently released, they did not return her phone to her and continued to monitor its contents. The client was subsequently invited back to the station and accused of sending pornography, which was actually pictures of the breast surgery process sent to her by her friend.

REActors were able to provide Renata with legal protection by finding a lawyer willing to take on her case and defend her rights. Moreover, Renata did not have sufficient financial means to leave the country, as she did not believe in a positive outcome of the trial. As a consequence, the transgender woman decided to leave her phone and seek help in finding financial means to leave the country. REActors decided to express official support on behalf of the community organization and sent a letter to friendly non-governmental organizations, including ECOM. In response, they expressed their willingness to provide financial support in the amount of 750 USD, which made it possible for Renata to purchase a ticket and leave Tajikistan.

Thanks to the funds received, Renata was able to start a new life in St. Petersburg. Two months later, the case against her was closed and her personal belongings were returned to her and mailed back to Russia. REActors are proud to have been able to help Renata overcome the difficulties she faced and to protect her right to freedom and self-expression according to her own wishes. This case highlights the importance of protecting the rights of transgender people and supporting them in their struggle for equality and freedom.

Renata is currently in Russia, but her life here has become much more difficult due to the introduction of new laws concerning the LGBTQ+ community. These laws create unacceptable conditions for transgender people and members of the LGBTQ+ community in general. In an effort to ensure her safety and a favorable psychosocial state, Renata is looking to relocate to another country where she can live and express herself fully.

Renata expressed her deep gratitude for the support provided by the REActors during difficult moments in her life. This support was crucial for her and enabled her to start a new chapter in her life, protecting her right to freedom and self-expression. Currently in search of a better place for her life, Renata remains in contact with the organization, which continues to support her from afar and stands by her side during this important transition period.

This case highlights the importance of continuing to fight for the rights and freedom of the LGBTQ+ community in different countries, as well as the need to support and protect those who face discrimination and persecution because of their gender and sexual identity.

The case of a doctor in Moldova: the struggle for tolerance and professional ethics

Post author By velyunsky
Post date October 12, 2023

A direct video message by a pediatrician appeared on social media, expressing hate speech towards the LGBT+ community. He claimed that they are unnatural, suffer from mental illness and that their “stupid propaganda” is inconsistent with physiological laws and Christian values. The doctor expressed this as his personal viewpoint, however, claiming it was an opinion consistent with his status as a specialist.

“People who disagree with my attitude towards homosexuals and all this propaganda that goes against physiological and natural laws and Christian values, let them not support me. We have different values. This is my position on ‘nonsense’. Sexual intercourse, in my opinion, is for the continuation of the human race, not for pleasure. Pleasure is an added incentive for humans to strive to have children and ensure the existence of our species on Earth, not for debauchery and pleasure. I will only support humans when I see that sexual intercourse between two women or two men results in the birth of children. Show me such and then I will change my position. Until then, it is a mental illness to me and such people should go to psychiatrists for treatment. Do not allow yourself to be misled and manipulated. If you do not share my point of view, do not come to me for counseling. I wish you health and mental wellbeing,” the doctor said on his TikTok account. He later held a live stream, continuing to express his anti-LGBT+ views for more than an hour.

The organization “GENDERDOC-M”, which registered and is investigating the case, submitted an application to the Equality Council. According to the decision, further action will be taken to review the incident and establish the appropriate consequences.

Also read:

Protecting the rights of transgender women in Tajikistan

Incident in Moldova with disclosure of medical information

Tags Human Rights, LGBTQ, Moldova

Response stories

Criminal proceedings of the case on trans* person’s beating continue in Armenia

Post author By velyunsky
Post date September 26, 2023

On August 18, 2022, H.A. had been walking in one of the streets of Vanadzor city, when two strangers approached her. The strangers immediately attacked H.A. and beat her hitting on different parts of her body. Then, they took out a knife, held it at H.A. and threatened her to leave the city as she’s a trans* woman and it’s a shame for them to have her in their city. They also threatened to kill the person if she didn’t leave. H.A. called the police. The police arrived at the scene and took everybody to the police department. However, the police materials don’t contain the data of the offenders. During reporting about the case at the police station, the police officers didn’t allow the victim to make calls or mention about her injuries in her report.

By the decision of August 22, 2022, of A. A. Vermishyan, first counsellor, investigator of the Lori regional Investigation Department of the Investigative Committee of the Republic of Armenia, the case of beating H.A. at location called Lcher in the night of June 5 and morning of June 6, 2022 and the case of August 18th beating were united.

According to the decision of August 27, 2022, of A.G. Tsakhkloryan, investigator of the Lori regional Investigation Department of the Investigative Committee of the Republic of Armenia, H.A. was recognized as a victim.

H.A. applied to NGNGO a month after the incident. NGNGO provided the applicant with assistance, and compiled a complaint against the human rights violation committed by police officers during taking the report from the victim. H.A. was provided with a referral for forensic examination.

Since January 2023 New Generation NGO attorney A. Zalyan took up the case.

In 2023, the cases united by the decision of August 22, 2022, were again separated, and are examined within different proceedings.

The preliminary investigations of the cases continue.

New Generation NGO will provide additional information about the further progress of the cases.

Original Source

Also read:

Combating Discrimination Against Children with HIV in Kazakhstan Educational Institutions

Progress in Addressing Discrimination and Promoting HIV Awareness in North Macedonia

Tags Armenia, Discrimination, Human Rights, LGBTQ

Response stories Uncategorized

Armenia: help in fighting blackmail

Post author By velyunsky
Post date August 30, 2023

This year brought an unexpected challenge in the life of Zara (name changed), a transgender woman. Together with her partner, she decided to take an HIV test and the result was positive. Instead of support and sympathy from her significant other, Zara faced shocking blackmail and threats. Her partner threatened to reveal her HIV status and demanded money to keep this personal information private. He swindled $1,500 in local currency and demanded more.

Zara found herself in a difficult situation, not knowing how to proceed. However, thanks to the advice of a kind friend, she turned to REActors for help. This was the turning point that helped Zara to reclaim her rights and regain her dignity.

The help provided by the REActor was incredibly valuable. Through competent counseling and support, Zara realized her rights and was able to regain her self-esteem. Equally importantly, the paralegal acted as a mediator in resolving this difficult situation. During the conversation, he explained to the offender about his illegal actions and what would follow if he did not stop.

After some time and after the intervention of the REActor, the blackmailer realized his illegal actions and returned the money to Zara. This case is an example of how proper information, dialog, and mediation can help people to fight injustice.

Zara’s story highlights the importance of the work of national REActors who come to the rescue in difficult situations and demonstrate that solidarity and knowledge of one’s rights can make a difference in people’s lives.

Also read:

Fighting for a safe birth: the story of a client from Uzbekistan

Problems of HIV-positive prisoners in Azerbaijan

Tags Armenia, Discrimination, Human Rights, LGBTQ

Response stories

Guiding Change: The Role of REActors in Supporting and Protecting LGBTQ People in Armenia

Post author By velyunsky
Post date July 4, 2023

Армения, несмотря на свое членство в Европейской комиссии против дискриминации, сталкивается с глубоко укоренившейся консервативной культурой и традициями, что приводит к стигматизации и дискриминации ЛГБТК-сообщества.

– Законодательство: Армения не имеет законов, которые явно защищали бы ЛГБТК-сообщество от дискриминации на основе сексуальной ориентации или гендерной идентичности. Это создает юридическую неопределенность и препятствует защите и правам ЛГБТК-людей.

– Социальное отношение: В армянском обществе преобладает консервативный подход к вопросам сексуальной ориентации и гендерной идентичности. Гомофобия и трансфобия распространены, и ЛГБТК-люди подвергаются социальному изоляции, преследованию и насилию. Они также часто сталкиваются с дискриминацией на рабочих местах и в учебных заведениях.

– Отсутствие правовой защиты: ЛГБТК-сообщество в Армении сталкивается с ограничениями в доступе к здравоохранению, социальным услугам и юридической защите. Отсутствие правовой защиты означает, что жертвы дискриминации и насилия имеют мало возможностей обратиться за помощью и справедливостью.

– Пропаганда “традиционных ценностей”: в последние годы наблюдается усиление консервативных и националистических групп, которые активно пропагандируют “традиционные ценности” и враждебно относятся к ЛГБТК-сообществу. Они проводят митинги, демонстрации и кампании, которые способствуют стигматизации и дискриминации ЛГБТК-людей.

Отсутствие законодательной защиты, социальные ограничения и препятствия в доступе к правам и услугам создают неблагоприятную среду для ЛГБТК-людей. Однако, благодаря инструментам, таким как РЕАкт, армянское ЛГБТК-сообщество находит поддержку и защиту, способствуя изменениям в общественном мнении.

Предательство и отчуждение

19 января Тигран (имя изменено) – представитель ЛГБТК-сообщества позвонил РЕАктору со слезами и рассказал, что познакомился в Интернете с парнем. Их общение длилось какое-то время, после чего он отправил ему свои интимные фотографии. Однако парень начал шантажировать Тиграна, сказав, что отправит эти снимки его родителям, если он не переведет ему 100 000 драм (около 250 долларов) до конца дня. Пострадавший был вынужден передать эти деньги, но через 2 дня тот потребовал столько же. Такой суммы у клиента уже не было. Тогда шантажист написал отцу Тиграна, что их сын гей и если до конца следующего дня ему не пришлют 200 000 драм, он выложит его интимные фото в интернет. Вместо поддержки, отец пострадавшего избил его и сказал, что такой сын ему не нужен. Тигран, глубоко переживая, решил покончить жизнь самоубийством и направился к мосту. Он позвонил РЕАктору уже оттуда, перед прыжком. РЕАктор уговорил его не делать поспешных решений и, не прерывая связи, направился к нему.

“Ты не один”

На месте он предоставил психологическую помощь и предложил переночевать у себя, так как Тиграну просто не было куда идти. Утром они вместе направились в отделение полиции. Представители органов подшучивали над молодым человеком и не хотели записывать показания. Они говорили, что пока ничего не опубликовано, нужно радоваться и продолжать наслаждаться жизнью. Тогда РЕАктор позвонил на горячую линию и оставил жалобу, после чего им позволили написать заявление. Уже через несколько дней шантажиста нашли, взяли под стражу и провели воспитательную беседу. Он больше не беспокоит пострадавшего. А Тигран вернулся в семью и помирился с отцом.

Проблемы, с которыми сталкивается ЛГБТК-сообщество в Армении, являются серьезными и требуют немедленных действий со стороны общества, правительства и международного сообщества. Но несмотря на сложности, существует надежда на позитивные изменения и прогресс. Общественное мнение играет важную роль в изменении отношения к ЛГБТК-сообществу. Организации и активисты должны продолжать освещать проблемы, связанные с дискриминацией и стигмой, а также работать над повышением осведомленности об этом вопросе. Образовательные программы, мероприятия и кампании могут помочь смягчить предубеждения и создать атмосферу взаимопонимания и уважения.Важно, чтобы все люди осознавали – ЛГБТК-сообщество имеет те же права и заслуживает равных возможностей и защиты.

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Tags Armenia, Discrimination, Human Rights, LGBTQ