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Description
The aim of the project is to ensure the equality of LGBT + people in Estonia through strategic advocacy work and effective policy-making. First, a qualitative research involving politicians, policymakers, policy implementers, and the Estonian LGBT + people on the state of affairs regarding LGBT+ people will be carried out. Based on the results of the research, recommendations for the National Action Plan on the Equality of LGBT+ People will be developed, which covers the entire field of equality of LGBT + people in Estonia. To ensure the effective implementation of recommendations, Estonian LGBT Association will develop its advocacy plan. As a result of successful involvement and communication, LGBT + people are more empowered and aware of their rights and opportunities. They have been able to have a say in identifying bottlenecks in legislation and everyday life, thereby enabling Estonian LGBT Association to work more effectively to protect the interests of LGBT + people. Politicians, policymakers, and implementers are informed and aware of LGBT + issues and problematic areas in guaranteeing human rights. They are empowered and are willing to speak more actively on LGBT + topics in their field of work. Public awareness of the issue of equality of LGBT + people has improved. Project Promoter is more effective and professional in its advocacy and policy work and its capacity to defend the interests of LGBT + people has grown. Policy center Praxis is responsible for carrying out a research, Estonian Human Rights Center will provide its expert opinion on the recommendations for the National Action Plan and Norwegian FRI-The Association for Gender and sexual Diversity will share its expertise and experience in developing both the recommendations and Project Promoter''s advocacy plan.
Summary of project results
The broader aim of the project was to promote equality for LGBT+ individuals by combating prejudices and discriminatory practices, and improving the legal framework, policies, and services to create a safe, open, and inclusive society.
The development of LGBT+ rights has largely stalled in recent years. Legislative authorities have not adopted strategies that take into account the needs of LGBT+ individuals or considered the relevant proposals from the European Union. To improve the situation, there is a need for impactful strategic advocacy work and policymaking that involves all stakeholders connected to ensuring the rights of LGBT+ individuals.
Measures based on the 2019 report by the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) were prepared for the EU and its member states. The FRA report highlights that discrimination and inequality on various grounds are encountered daily across the EU. Moreover, the findings consistently show that individuals who experience discrimination (43% of LGBT+ people report feeling discriminated against in various situations) rarely report such incidents.
In 2018, an association prepared a report and recommendations for the government, suggesting that the state should implement measures to comply with the Council of Europe''s recommendations on combating discrimination against LGBTI individuals. The comprehensive analysis and recommendations targeted policymakers and public officials, addressing Estonia''s laws and practices. However, these recommendations have not been adopted or utilized in policymaking or implementation in Estonia.
In November 2020, the European Commission introduced its first LGBT+ Equality Strategy for 2020–2025, aimed at combating discrimination and hate. For Estonian policymakers and implementers to consider the best practices of this equality strategy and, as recommended by the European Commission, develop action plans to enhance LGBT+ equality, there is a need for clear, impactful materials and strategic advocacy efforts.
- The most recent experiences and expectations of LGBT+ individuals were mapped by examining their experiences of living in Estonia through a study conducted by the think tank Praxis. For the first time, policymakers’ attitudes toward LGBT+ individuals and their rights were also mapped.
- Best international practices and EU recommendations for laws and policies supporting LGBT+ equality were reviewed and analyzed.
- A set of recommendations for a national plan to promote LGBT+ equality in Estonia were prepared. The drafting process involved the participation of the LGBT+ community, meetings with policymakers and decision-makers, as well as the presentation and validation of the recommendations within the community.
- New connections with the community were established, and relationships with decision-makers were strengthened.
- An advocacy plan was developed to achieve a comprehensive and effective horizontal action plan for advancing equality for LGBT+ individuals.
As a result of advocacy efforts during the project, the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications and the Ministry of Social Affairs have begun developing an action plan for LGBT+ equality as of March 2024. The LGBT Association has been included in the planning process.
The recommendations for the action plan form a comprehensive document covering many areas. These recommendations will guide the Association’s daily advocacy work and shape the activities included in its next strategic period. They also serve as a solid foundation for the ministries currently working on the action plan. Since the recommendations are treated as a living document, the Association plans to add new areas to it after the project, including topics that were not originally included or are not yet part of its strategic planning.
The advocacy plan is a document designed to guide post-project efforts toward ensuring that the state develops an effective and broadly applicable policy document.
New connections within the LGBT+ community, along with strengthened relationships with decision-makers, enhance the Association’s influence as a field expert and contribute to addressing various issues related to LGBT+ equality.
Summary of bilateral results
The project partner was FRI, the oldest and largest LGBT+ rights organization in Norway. The sharing of their experiences in advocacy work among policymakers and decision-makers has been invaluable, providing the Estonian LGBT Association with valuable insights. FRI''s extensive experience as a partner to the government in the development and implementation of LGBT+ equality action plans has been crucial in the development of recommendations and advocacy plan prepared in the framework of the project.