Advancing Equality: TGEU’s Assessment Survey Report

In line with TGEU’s mandate to make constituency voice a norm in the organisation’s performance management, this report provides members feedback on TGEU ́s work in advancing equality.

The data was gathered through an online survey for two months from 16 individuals based in Europe. Participants gave insight on how the organisation can strategically enhance its advocacy efforts, especially when engaging EU policymakers.

The results suggest general satisfaction with TGEU’s work in terms of service provision and advocacy. Participants also recommended a more inclusive approach to amplify the experiences of minority trans people who are, for example, refugees, people of colour, elderly and disabled.

Respondents were also asked to rate on different aspects of the EU equality law concerning access to justice, relevant and responsive healthcare. All participants felt that the EU law was lacking because it offers protection for trans people concerning gender reassignment. Also highlighted was the dire need for improved access to relevant health care services for Trans people. However, some respondents applauded the fact that EU law grants protection in terms of employment and redress for victims of violence.

The survey results confirm the general scepticism expressed by most respondents who also identified as non-binary regarding the benefits of the EU equality law. According to 60 % of respondents, EU equality law had not resulted in trans equality. Recommendations from 50 % of respondents called for the improvement of the EU law through efficient implementation of the EU legal norms in the Member States as well as the adoption of new legislation.

Furthermore, 90 % of respondents attributed the low number of cases before the EU Court of Justice (CJEU) to lack of knowledge by trans people on EU court procedures. Other reasons cited where fear of both reporting cases to authorities and the stress of having to bear the costs in the event of a loss following the daunting court processes.

Participants felt that for the legislation to have more impact in the EU there is a need to; implement the EU legal norms in the Member States efficiently; build the capacity of trans organisations to engage in strategic court cases. Other recommendations are for: increased engagement in strategic litigation before CJEU and the European Court of Human Rights; Develop awareness-raising materials and training on EU law as well as to collaborate and exchange knowledge with lawyers and legal experts.