On 16 September 2026, the National LGBT Rights Organisation LGL, together with the Office of the Seimas Ombudspersons of the Republic of Lithuania, organised an interinstitutional discussion titled “Protecting the Rights of Women and LGBTI People: Current Challenges and Joint Advocacy Priorities”.

During the event, LGL Communications Manager Eglė Kuktoraitė presented the findings of research conducted as part of the “Visible and Heard” project on violence against LBT women and non-binary people, as well as practical guidelines for professionals. Participants discussed how to improve the identification of violence experienced by these groups and ensure an appropriate and sensitive response.

The meeting also reviewed the situation of women’s and LGBTI rights in Lithuania, key developments in recent years and the most pressing challenges. Representatives of LGL and the project partners—the FRIDA Foundation, the Women’s Information Centre and Valandėlė sau—discussed shared advocacy priorities and areas in which closer cooperation between organisations could have the greatest impact.

Particular attention was given to the protection of LGBTI rights through the courts. Participants discussed the first court cases concerning the legal recognition and registration of partnerships, judicial practice related to the legal recognition of gender identity, and other cases in which courts are required to address gaps in legislation.

The interinstitutional discussion brought together representatives of public institutions, non-governmental organisations and human rights experts. Participants explored practical ways to strengthen cooperation between public institutions and civil society so that research findings and practical recommendations can serve as a basis for systemic change.

LGL extends its sincere thanks to Dr Erika Leonaitė, Head of the Office of the Seimas Ombudspersons, Seimas Ombudsperson Dr Jolita Miliuvienė, the project partners, and all the decision-makers and experts who participated in the discussion.

Photos by © Augustas Didžgalvis.

The meeting was organised as part of the project “Visible and Heard: Responding to Gender-Based Violence Against LBT Women and Non-Binary People” (No. GR-001-LT). The project seeks to contribute to the development of a safer and more inclusive society and to strengthen support mechanisms for LBT women experiencing gender-based violence.

Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are, however, those of the author only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Commission. Neither the European Union nor the European Commission can be held responsible for them.