Our Team

The Eurasian Key Populations Coalition (EKPC) stands as a beacon of advocacy and representation for key populations across Eastern Europe, Central Asia, the Caucasus, and the Balkan countries. Our team is composed exclusively of individuals who are themselves members of these key populations, ensuring that our perspectives, experiences, and needs are at the forefront of our initiatives. This composition is not merely a structural choice; it is a fundamental principle that underpins our mission and operational ethos. Representation Matters The inclusion of key populations in all decision-making bodies within EKPC—including the board, secretariat, and projects/programs teams—is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it guarantees that the voices of those most affected by health disparities and social injustices are heard. Key populations often face systemic barriers, including discrimination and criminalization, which can severely limit their access to essential services. By ensuring their representation, we can advocate effectively for policies and programs that address their unique challenges. Moreover, the involvement of key populations in executive bodies fosters a culture of accountability and transparency. It allows us to critically assess our strategies and ensure they are aligned with the actual needs of the communities we serve. This participatory approach not only enhances the quality of our programs but also builds trust within communities that have historically been marginalized or overlooked. The Importance of Inclusion in Legislative and Executive Bodies At EKPC, we recognize that legislative frameworks significantly influence the health and rights of key populations. Therefore, it is imperative that individuals from these communities are actively involved in shaping these policies. Our coalition works to ensure that key populations are represented in legislative discussions and decisions that affect their lives. This active participation is vital for dismantling harmful laws and practices that criminalize behaviors associated with key populations, such as drug use or same-sex relationships. Furthermore, many countries within our target regions have enacted laws that label key populations as "foreign agents" or criminalize their existence. This hostile environment necessitates a strategic approach to advocacy—one that prioritizes safety while amplifying the voices of those who are often silenced. By refraining from publicly disclosing individual names within our team, we protect our members from potential repercussions while still emphasizing their integral role in our coalition. Project Planning, Implementation, Monitoring, and Evaluation The EKPC's commitment to including key populations extends beyond governance; it permeates every aspect of our project lifecycle—from planning through implementation to monitoring and evaluation. Key populations are involved in designing programs that cater specifically to their needs, ensuring cultural relevance and effectiveness. Their insights guide our methodologies, enabling us to develop interventions that resonate with those we aim to support. In terms of monitoring and evaluation, the participation of key population representatives allows for a more nuanced understanding of program impact. They can provide critical feedback on what works and what does not within their communities, helping us refine our approaches continuously. This iterative process is essential for fostering sustainable change and improving health outcomes across the region. Political Arguments for Inclusion The political landscape in Eastern Europe and Central Asia is complex and often fraught with challenges for key populations. Stigma, discrimination, and punitive legal frameworks create an environment where these communities struggle to access healthcare services. By advocating for their inclusion in decision-making processes at all levels—local, national, and regional—we challenge the status quo and push for reforms that promote equity and justice. Moreover, international commitments to health equity underscore the necessity of including key populations in public health strategies. The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) emphasize leaving no one behind; thus, it is imperative that our advocacy aligns with these global objectives. By positioning key populations as central stakeholders in health policy discussions, we contribute to a broader movement aimed at achieving social justice. Engagement with Key Populations Communities Our commitment to inclusivity is reflected in our engagement with various key population communities throughout the EKPC's operations. We actively seek input from these groups on legislative matters affecting them and ensure their perspectives inform our advocacy strategies. This engagement not only empowers communities but also enhances the legitimacy of our coalition's efforts. We recognize that effective advocacy requires collaboration across sectors—healthcare providers, policymakers, civil society organizations, and community members must work together to create an enabling environment for key populations. EKPC serves as a platform for fostering these collaborations, facilitating dialogue among stakeholders who share a commitment to advancing the rights and well-being of marginalized groups. The Eurasian Key Populations Coalition is dedicated to ensuring that all decision-making bodies reflect the voices of key populations from Eastern Europe, Central Asia, the Caucasus, and the Balkans. Our team embodies this commitment through active participation in legislative processes and executive functions while prioritizing safety amid challenging political climates. We invite stakeholders interested in collaborating with us or seeking further information about our initiatives to reach out via email: contact our board at Board@ekpc.org or connect with our secretariat team at Secretariat@ekpc.org Together, we can forge a path toward equitable health outcomes for all key populations across our regions.