The right to self-determination is essential for the survival and freedom of every human being, as emphasised in the regional campaign “Cheers to life!” organised by Trans Mreža Balkan in collaboration with Kolektiv Talas TIRV from Serbia, Asocijacija Spektra from Montenegro, kolekTIRV from Croatia, TransForma from Macedonia, and TransAkcija from Slovenia. This campaign marks the Transgender Day of Remembrance, a day when the number of trans individuals killed solely because of their identity is acknowledged annually. Through this initiative, we celebrate life by toasting those who are here and fighting, while honoring and remembering those whose lives were tragically lost.
According to this year’s data from one of the most prominent European organisations, TGEU – Trans Europe and Central Asia, which monitors violence against the trans community globally, 350 trans individuals have been killed worldwide. These figures are not mere statistics; each number represents a name, a life, dreams, and prospect cut short by violence and intolerance. Each of these individuals were someone’s sister, brother, daughter, son, best friend, partner, or spouse, and their loss is also society’s loss.
Every November 20th, we remember those who lost their lives simply because they wanted to live freely and happily. Transphobia, which denies the worthiness of trans lives, robbed them of this basic human right.
However, this day is not just one of remembrance; it is a call to action, responsibility, and a demand of the necessity to punish violence and discrimination while defending the rights and dignity of not just trans individuals but society as a whole.
A life lived with dignity is impossible without the right to define and express oneself without fear of judgment, attack, or ultimately being killed. The right to self-determination is critical for the survival and freedom of every human being, regardless of identity—be it gender, nationallity, religion, or otherwise. This right must not be defined by a neighbor, an acquaintance, or even the state.
Transphobia is not merely an issue of hatred but also of denied rights to life, security, and freedom. It reflects an oppressive system that dictates roles and positions for everyone and profits from hatred.
Today, we not only honor the lives lost but also celebrate the strength, resilience, and courage of those who continue to fight for their right to exist.
We are a community of proud, determined, persistent, and brave individuals actively working toward a society that benefits everyone. Our voices are not silenced by the loss of life; on the contrary, they grow louder and more resolute in ensuring that such tragedies do not happen again.
This year, through this campaign, we remind everyone that the right to life is absolute and that trans people will continue to exist and fight for a world where everyone can toast “Cheers to life!”—with pride, dignity, and without fear.