The National LGBTIQ+ Conference in Ukraine is not just an event, it is a continuous movement that unites activists, social workers, health and legal experts, international partners, and ordinary citizens for a common goal: a society of equal opportunities. Every year, since 2008, the conference gathers more and more participants, discusses topical issues, and looks for ways to support and develop the community. It is an event where ideas turn into plans and words into actions.
How it all began
The event that would become the forerunner of the national movement took place in April 2008 at the Prolisok Recreation Center. This first conference brought together about 70 participants and became not only a platform for communication but also a platform for the first advocacy efforts, exchange of experience, and consolidation of efforts to protect the rights of LGBTIQ+ people in Ukraine. It was a bold step initiated by the All-Ukrainian Charitable Foundation “Coalition of HIV Service Organizations” together with activists of the LGBTIQ+ movement.
Years of expansion and partnership: 2009-2013
The second year of the conference in 2009 saw the formation of the first advocacy strategies, and in 2010, the third conference brought together trans* people for the first time, breaking new ground in the struggle for visibility and rights for all members of the LGBTIQ+ community. In 2011, through the Rainbow Theme for You festival, the conference brought together cultural and advocacy efforts and attracted a wide audience. The 5th conference in 2012 focused on the development of MSM services and became a moment of mobilization for Ukrainian LGBTIQ+ organizations, which demonstrated their strength through a common stance against discriminatory bills. The VI conference in 2013 was the largest since its inception, with over 100 representatives of various organizations participating, and for the first time, an official appeal to the authorities to reject bills that violate the rights of the LGBTIQ+ community was signed. These bills were subsequently withdrawn, demonstrating the power of united action.
Bold steps and high-profile actions: 2014-2017
2014 was a test of unity when the VII conference, held together with the III KyivPride at Olimpiyskiy, faced the challenges of political instability. Despite canceling the Equality March due to security issues, the conference showed the resilience of the movement. In 2015, the VIII Conference paved the way for cooperation with parent initiatives and also adopted ethical standards, which became an important step for internal consolidation. The achievements of 2016, particularly the successful Equality March and the anti-discrimination amendment to the Labor Code, demonstrated to society the power of joint action. The X Conference in 2017, which brought together more than 20 partner organizations, brought a new level of political dialogue for LGBTIQ+ activists and an opportunity to bring their needs to the state level.
New realities – new opportunities: a conference in the face of a pandemic
With the start of the pandemic in 2020, the XIII Conference moved to a virtual format, opening up new opportunities for participation not only for residents of Ukraine but also for representatives of the global LGBTIQ+ community. It was an extraordinary event where more than 58 speakers shared their experiences and knowledge, opening new horizons in advocacy work.
The XIV Conference in 2021, held under the slogan “Health of the Nation: Dignity, Equality and Rights”, consolidated the new status of the LGBTIQ+ community as active agents of social change. The focus was not only on physical health but also on the inclusion and integration of LGBTIQ+ communities into mainstream society, putting the healthy development of the nation at the forefront.
The challenges of war and the power of unity
The XV conference in 2022 took place in the face of a full-scale Russian invasion, which was a test of endurance. It was a year when the conference served not only as a platform to discuss strategies but also as a way to support each other. The focus was on security, supporting the community in the temporarily occupied territories, and protecting the rights of LGBTIQ+ military and civilians. An important part of the discussions was humanitarian aid and psychological support for the community, which became a symbol of indestructibility and fortitude. The XVI National LGBTIQ+ Conference in 2023 summarized the results of human rights work during the war, demonstrating the unity and resilience of the LGBTIQ+ community. Issues of rehabilitation after the war, as well as support for those affected by the fighting, were key themes. The conference not only laid the groundwork for further human rights initiatives but also provided further proof of the resilience of the community.
The near future
On December 5-6 this year, the XVII National LGBTIQ+ Conference will take place, which will be an important stage not only to take stock but also to discuss current challenges, among which are delays in the adoption of draft laws on registered partnerships and liability for hate crimes. It will also be an opportunity to develop strategies for the future in the context of post-war reconstruction and European integration. Much? Undoubtedly. But the hope is that it is through events like this and active community participation that the groundwork is laid for a strong, modern, and inclusive Ukraine, where everyone can feel an equal part of society.