Defunding Equality: The Global Impact of Aid Cuts on Trans Rights and the Path Forward

Join Trans Advocacy Week partners for an analysis of the impact of funding cuts and explore actionable solutions to mitigate their effects and advance trans rights and democracy for all. Side event is followed by networking and drinks.

• Room XXV, Palais des Nations, UN Geneva
• 17 June 2025, 16:00-17:00, followed by drinks 17:00-18:30

Recent global funding cuts have had severe consequences for gender equality and LGBTQI+ rights. Already on the back foot due to decades of underinvestment and deprioritization, these cuts disproportionately impact trans movements by eliminating crucial funding for healthcare and human rights advocacy. This reduction in support comes amid a broader wave of democratic backsliding, where trans rights and issues have become a focal point for anti-gender movements to push against human rights in their wider effort to reinstate anti-democratic political systems.

Despite these setbacks, governments, donors, and civil society have an opportunity to respond strategically, ensuring trans rights remain at the forefront of global human rights discussions. As trans and gender diverse people are at the center of anti-democratic attacks, we are best positioned to provide solutions and defend democracy. This Side Event will analyze the impact of these funding cuts and explore actionable solutions to mitigate their effects and advance human rights and democracy for all.