From November 10 to 14, 2025, ECOM held a Sex Education Academy for LGBT youth — an intensive training program aimed at developing inclusive approaches to comprehensive sexuality education (CSE) and strengthening young leaders in the region.

A total of 64 applications were submitted for participation in the Academy, confirming once again the high demand for inclusive sex education in the region. Following the selection process, 35 participants from Eastern Europe, the South Caucasus and Central Asia were admitted to the program. The Academy combined theory, practice and experience sharing, covering key aspects of sexual health, rights and well-being for LGBT youth.

The Academy program covered a full range of topics essential for modern, inclusive sex education. Participants explored the principles of comprehensive sexuality education and learned step by step how to develop their own CSE programs — from identifying the audience and resources to creating safe spaces and designing mini-sessions. Separate modules covered chemsex, HIV and STIs, reproductive health for lesbians, bisexual women and trans men, as well as issues of SOGI, self-acceptance and mental well-being. An important part of the training focused on consent, personal boundaries, preventing sexualized and gender-based violence and developing advocacy and leadership skills.

Why do we need such an Academy?

Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights Coordinator at ECOM, Uluk Batyrgaliev, emphasizes the importance of a systemic approach,

“Eastern Europe, the South Caucasus and Central Asia are in dire need of inclusive and honest sexuality education. LGBT youth are too often left without information that reflects their real lives — about health, consent, relationships, pleasure, safety and emotional well-being.

At ECOM, we’re taking a systemic approach to this: we’ve created a Guide on how to launch CSE programs, trained young people to use it, and we openly discuss difficult topics that many are afraid to raise.

This is especially important now, when the space for human rights work is shrinking, laws on so-called ‘LGBT propaganda’ are being adopted, and access to information is becoming limited. These laws didn’t make LGBT youth heterosexual or address their real needs — they created new barriers.

The CSE Academy gives young people back what others are trying to take away from them: knowledge, safety, support and the opportunity to become leaders in their communities.”

Voices of the Academy participants

“The Academy became a starting point for me in the field of sexuality education. It creates a truly safe space where you can ask any questions without shame or fear. The lecturers explain complex things in a simple way, and the practical exercises help you feel confident about your boundaries, relationships and health.

For me, it was eye-opening to talk to LGBTQ people from different countries and understand their situation. This is especially important now, when LGBTQ rights in Kazakhstan face serious challenges. The Academy gave me support, knowledge and the understanding that it’s never too late to fight for your rights.”

“For me, as a trainer and activist, participation in the Academy was a very meaningful experience. I gained structured knowledge on CSE, new tools and inspiration to develop projects in Armenia. Thank you to the team for the support and the incredible atmosphere!”

— K.A.

“Sexuality education is the key to a healthy and harmonious life. But due to political pressure, it often disappears from the public sphere, leaving people vulnerable.

I’m grateful to ECOM for the opportunity to join a community of competent and inspiring specialists who create safe spaces and train CSE educators.”

— Zhenya Skvortsova, coordinator at Gasp Magazine

“I received a lot of useful information from amazing specialists: about health, CSE, conducting sessions, advocacy and much more.

I met like-minded people from different countries and learned more about the situation with LGBTQ+ rights among our neighbors — it inspires me to support the international community.

The Academy was intensive and required full engagement, but that’s actually a plus!” — Aidana

The CSE Academy: an investment in the sustainable future of LGBT youth

The Academy became not only an educational course, but also a space for mutual support, developing leadership and strengthening regional ties. ECOM will continue advancing sexuality education so that young LGBT people can receive the knowledge they are entitled to — regardless of political circumstances or restrictions.