In the vibrant landscape of Georgia, two remarkable visionaries, Nikolo Gviniashvili, and Beka Gabadadze, are rewriting the narrative for trans and MSM (men who have sex with men) rights. As formidable representatives of the trans/MSM community in Georgia’s coordination council, they have not only defied norms but have also managed to enact real change, even in the face of unprecedented challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Pioneer
Nikolo Gviniashvili (he, him), a pioneering transgender man, made history by becoming the first trans man to be part of the Country Coordinating Mechanism. His advocacy work has garnered him the well-deserved title of a “Groundbreaker” in the field of advocacy. In 2022, Ghviniashvili achieved a significant milestone by securing a landmark case at the Strasbourg Court, leading to a legal recognition of gender. His journey commenced at a pivotal moment, coinciding with the worldwide emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic, a time marked by a collective global effort to protect lives.
The Pandemic’s Toll on Vulnerable Communities
The pandemic triggered a social security crisis in Georgia, hitting vulnerable groups, particularly trans individuals, with unforgiving force. Many within the trans community were engaged in professions like sex work and service industries, rendering them disproportionately vulnerable to the ramifications of lockdowns and service closures. Gviniashvili vividly recalls the initial three weeks of the pandemic, characterized by resource scarcity and a pressing need for assistance.
In response to this crisis, LGBTQ community organizations rallied international donors for support. Within this movement, representatives from the trans/MSM community in the CCM played a pivotal role by distributing critical resources like food and hygiene items, generously provided by humanitarian support programs, to those most in need.
Addressing Homelessness
The pandemic spotlighted another critical issue within the trans community – homelessness. Many individuals returning to their families found themselves thrust into hostile environments. This crisis sparked the idea of establishing a shelter service for trans and MSM individuals. This groundbreaking initiative, included in the COVID-19 response grant from the Global Fund for AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria, secured funding in 2022 and continues to offer sanctuary and support to those in need.
Beka Gabadadze (they, he), a formidable presence in the fight for trans rights, joined forces with Ghviniashvili, bringing their invaluable expertise and passion to the Country Coordination Mechanism. Over the span of three years, Gabadadze has been at the helm of the Trans* Map in EECA project, serving as an advocacy specialist within the Queer Association – Temida. Their tireless commitment led to the official recognition of the trans* group as a key HIV population in the National HIV/AIDS Strategy and Action Plan.
Under Gabadadze’s stewardship, Georgia witnessed the initiation of its first-ever population size estimation study, a milestone that set the stage for the creation of Georgia’s Comprehensive Package of HIV/AIDS Services for Trans* People and a pioneering HIV prevention services delivery protocol. The National Center for Disease Control provided crucial funding for the launch of the inaugural pilot HIV prevention project for trans people in 2023. Plans are already underway to refine and expand this groundbreaking project from 2024 onwards.
Championing Trans-Specific Healthcare
However, despite remarkable progress, significant challenges persist within the healthcare sector. Gviniashvili and Gabadadze utilize their influential roles in the coordination mechanism to shine a spotlight on these pressing issues. Their relentless focus on establishing a national trans-specific healthcare protocol underscores their unwavering dedication. Ghvinishvili consistently emphasizes this matter in his addresses. During the 101st CCM meeting, he remarked:
“While our transgender men initiative group managed to temporarily address trans-specific healthcare issues with limited resources, a sustainable solution requires steadfast state support.”
In response, Tamar Gabunia (she/her), Deputy Minister of Health, confirmed that although the pandemic temporarily hindered progress, there is ongoing communication with UNDP. The blueprint for guideline development has been carefully delineated, underscoring its initial independent execution separate from the Ministry. Ministry participation and coordination are planned for a subsequent phase.
As active members of the Country Coordinating Mechanism, Gviniashvili, and Gabadadze tirelessly labor to ensure that high-quality gender affirmation procedures become widely accessible throughout Georgia. Their vision is unwavering: to empower trans individuals with unfettered access to top-tier, life-affirming services. While significant strides have been made, their tireless efforts underscore the pivotal role of state support in cementing these advancements, paving the way for a more inclusive future for all.