UN Trans Advocacy Week is an international advocacy initiative that brings trans and gender diverse community leaders to the United Nations. Started in 2017, trans and gender diverse human rights activists are brought to UN spaces in Geneva to engage in international advocacy, delve into ways in which human rights defenders can engage with UN Treaty Bodies and Special Procedures, and interact with senior UN officials and Special Procedures mandate holders.
This initiative is coordinated by six partners:
- Global Action for Trans Equality (GATE)
- Asia Pacific Transgender Network (APTN)
- Transgender Europe (TGEU)
- East Africa Trans and Health Advocacy Network (EATHAN)
- Swedish Federation for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and Intersex Rights (RFSL)
- International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association (ILGA World)
Who will be participating?
The partners launched a public call from 6 November to 10 December 2023 to select participants for UN Trans Advocacy Week 2024. This call was aimed at trans and gender diverse human rights defenders with an interest in enhancing their understanding of international advocacy mechanisms and identifying ways to strengthen their local advocacy through engaging and interacting with relevant UN bodies and mechanisms. Application forms were provided in English, French, Spanish and Russian, with participants invited to use translation services in other languages and to complete their application in any language they preferred.
Applications from trans and gender diverse people with multiple, intersectional identities, including (but not limited to) Black, indigenous, and Latinx people and people of color, D/deaf and disabled people, people from a migrant background, and sex workers, as well as applicants from Global South countries, were encouraged. Gender and geographical balance were taken into account when selecting applications. Language interpretation is provided for successful applicants where required.
What is the benefit of participating?
Participants are empowered with valuable knowledge and practical skills to champion the rights of trans communities, advance sustainable development, and gain insight into international law and mechanisms. This engagement enhances their comprehension of global interactions and interconnections among nations and deepens their awareness of the pressing global issues and contemporary challenges intertwined with the well-being of trans communities. By actively engaging in this opportunity, participants are fortifying their role as agents of positive change, amplifying their voices as dedicated advocates for their communities and catalyzing tangible, transformative impacts.
The program for participants will include workshops on UN Treaty Bodies, Special Procedures, and UPR Processes, as well as opportunities to make statements at Human Rights Council sessions and take part in closed-door meetings with senior officials, including Special Procedures mandate holders.