Trans Forum 2026: Three Days of Community, Support, and Advocacy

From June 5 to 7, Kyiv hosted Trans Forum 2026—a three-day event for the trans community organized by the NGO “Resistance” in collaboration with the NGO “Emancipation,” the NGO “T-Pivden,” and T-Voice, with support from the Swedish organization RFSL.

The forum served as a space to discuss the current needs of trans people in Ukraine, share experiences, and collaborate on future advocacy efforts. Over the course of three days, participants were able to take part in discussions, lectures, and consultations, as well as meet and interact with other members of the community.

Among the Forum’s key topics are the experiences of trans people in the military, the implementation of ICD-11 in Ukraine, amendments to the Civil Code, self-administered hormone therapy in the absence of access to a doctor, as well as practical issues related to self-expression and style.

Special attention was given to the experiences of transgender service members. Female volunteers Svitlana Kamyshna and Emily spoke about their combat experiences and the challenges trans people face while serving.

A “Quiet Room” was also available for participants—a space for rest and psychological support led by psychotherapist Veronika Stefanova. Attorney Anna Litvinova provided legal consultations.

During the Forum, a fundraiser was held to support transgender military personnel. Through our joint efforts, we managed to raise 24,022 hryvnias.

One of the key outcomes of the Trans Forum 2026 was the drafting of a resolution outlining the main directions for the future activities of Ukrainian trans organizations. Working groups were also tentatively formed to continue this work.

The forum demonstrated the trans community’s readiness to become more actively involved in advocacy for their own human rights and building a democratic society in Ukraine. It is important to us that the voices of trans people not only be heard during such events, but also directly influence the shaping of the movement’s future priorities.

Thank you to the speakers, volunteers, partner organizations, and all participants who took part in Trans Forum 2026. Special thanks to RFSL for its ongoing support, trust, and cooperation.

See you at Trans Forum 2027!