The project will contribute to addressing the ongoing challenge of insufficient protection of equality and non-discrimination of LGBTIQ+ persons in Lithuania. This complex issue is reflected in gaps in the legal framework, limited participation of the LGBTIQ+ community in public decision-making processes, and insufficient public awareness of European Union values. Despite discussions and individual initiatives in recent years, LGBTIQ+ issues remain highly politicised, while civil society organisations operating in the regions often lack the capacity to engage systematically in advocacy and awareness-raising activities at the national level.

The main objective of the project is to strengthen equality, non-discrimination, and inclusion of LGBTIQ+ persons in Lithuania by leveraging the context of “Lithuanian Pride” 2027 and Lithuania’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union, while contributing to the implementation of EU values such as equality, human rights, democracy, and the rule of law. The project brings together national and regional efforts through the establishment of a sustainable partnership between the applicant organisation and a regional NGO.

The project’s target groups include national and regional decision-makers, civil society organisations, representatives of regional NGOs, members of the LGBTIQ+ community, and youth activists. The main beneficiaries are LGBTIQ+ persons in Lithuania, regional civil society organisations, and the wider public, as the project will contribute to increased understanding of the importance of diversity and equality in society.

The expected project results will be achieved through the implementation of a coordinated advocacy campaign and an awareness-raising campaign. The advocacy campaign will focus on the development of policy recommendations with the involvement of community members and regional NGOs, meetings with decision-makers, and a public civic advocacy initiative during “Lithuanian Pride” 2027. The awareness-raising campaign will include an international conference in Vilnius, communication activities in social media and the media, and dissemination of project results. Overall, the project will deliver sustainable change by strengthening the voice of the LGBTIQ+ community, increasing public awareness, and enhancing advocacy capacities of NGOs, particularly at the regional level.

The project “Pride for Equality: Strengthening LGBTIQ+ Rights and European Union Values in Lithuania” (No. CERV2-K3-0003) is funded by the European Union.