This year ILGA-Europe Annual Conference held in the picturesque Slovenian capital of Ljubljana from October 25 to 28, was a remarkable gathering that brought together over 450 activists and allies from Europe and Central Asia. This event was not just a meeting; it was a dynamic platform for collaboration, reflection, and action. Here, we look back on the highlights of this year’s conference and the key discussions that took place.
The conference featured an array of activities, including 23 workshops, 19 self-organized sessions, 9 connecting spaces, and 25 social events. It was a space where participants experienced numerous brave and thoughtful moments. The diversity of events and the engagement of the attendees made it a vibrant and enriching experience.
The atmosphere at the conference was charged with enthusiasm and hope. Attendees were thrilled to unite in one space, recognizing the importance of connection, solidarity, and inspiration, especially in these challenging times. The collaboration with host organizations in Ljubljana added to the excitement, promising a diverse, productive, and enjoyable conference for all.
The backdrop of the conference was the complex and evolving historical context of the LGBTQ+ movement. In recent years, LGBTQ+ individuals have faced repeated targeting and instrumentalization by anti-democratic and anti-human rights forces, making their communities more vulnerable. However, amidst these turbulent times, activists have demonstrated resilience and creativity, finding innovative ways to drive political and social change.
There’s also the Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights, Dunja Mijatović who’s in the opening speech at the Conference’s Plenary and panel discussion: The practice of solidarity – Reflections on unity, trust, and true connections, pointed out: “It is important to recognise diversity, differing needs, and different voices, within the LGBTI movement. Many people face multiple, intersecting forms of discrimination – if we ignore these experiences, we risk leaving the most marginalised behind. Part of my work has sought to draw out the specific needs of LGBTI people who seek asylum, or who additionally face racism or sex and gender-based discrimination. In the coming weeks, I will also seek to highlight intersectional discrimination faced due to engagement in sex work. Listening, however, is not enough. It is also vital that I use my voice to shed a light on your experiences, lives, and work” .
Building on the discussions from the previous year’s conference about the role of the LGBTQ+ movement in shaping the future, this year’s event aimed to address the challenges and opportunities presented by the evolving focus on LGBTQ+ lives, rights, HIV and other healthcare issues, and equality in Europe and Central Asia. Interesting discussions took place on anti-LGBTQ+ laws and environments, migration, homelessness, conversion therapies, and practices.
Participants grappled with essential questions, such as how to maintain a focus on longer-term goals rather than being caught in a cycle of emergency responses. The conference emphasized the importance of strategic planning in the face of external challenges and pressures.
Another crucial theme revolved around strengthening unity and collective identity within the LGBTQ+ movement. In a time when external forces seek to undermine the cohesive strength of the movement, discussions aimed to find ways to stay strong, stable, and on track. The goal was to ensure that the LGBTQ+ movement works effectively together toward shared goals, leaving no one behind.
The ILGA-Europe Conference 2023 was a testament to the resilience and determination of the LGBTQ+ community in Europe and Central Asia. It provided a space for reflection, collaboration, and inspiration, with participants showcasing that it is indeed possible to rise to the moment, even in challenging times. As we look back on this significant event, the LGBTQ+ movement must be united and focused, ready to tackle the challenges of a changing world.
Next year’s conference will be held in Bucharest, Romania.
Vaghinak Ter-Hovhannisyan, Pink Armenia