ASTRA NETWORK – ASTRA Network Bulletin 2/2025

Dear colleagues and friends,

We are thrilled to announce the release of the latest edition of the ASTRA Network Bulletin 2/2025, bringing powerful stories and bold advocacy from across Central and Eastern Europe and Central Asia. This edition is a testament to the strength, determination, and solidarity of those working tirelessly to defend human rights, gender equality, and sexual and reproductive health and rights—often against tremendous odds.

🔍 Highlights from this issue:

  1. Hungary Bans Budapest Pride – A Red Line Crossed
    A stark warning for democracy in Europe: Hungary’s criminalization of Pride is more than national policy—it’s a signal to the world. Civil society is standing firm. Will Europe respond?
  2. Armenia Adopts a Progressive Gender Equality Strategy
    A groundbreaking national plan centers reproductive health, post-rape care, and SRHR training, thanks to tireless civil society advocacy.
  3. Celebrating 30 Years of Impact in Albania
    ACPD marks over three decades of transformative work, from advancing youth education to challenging gender-based violence and human trafficking.
  4. Member Spotlight: Camelia Proca and A.L.E.G. – Two Decades of Empathy and Action
    Founder Camelia Proca shares how A.L.E.G. is redefining survivor support, youth empowerment, and intersectional advocacy in Romania—with peer-led initiatives and a bold voice for gender justice.
  5. Empowerment through Self-Defense in Moldova
    A hands-on youth workshop teaches self-defense and psychological resilience to confront gender-based violence—with inspiring results and ripple effects across communities.

These are just a few of the incredible stories waiting to be discovered in this issue. From grassroots activism to international advocacy, your support and engagement matter now more than ever.

📖 Read the full bulletin here: https://astra.org.pl/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/ASTRA_bulletin_2_2025.pdf

🌍 Join the conversation and help amplify these voices.

Together, we’re building a region—and a future—rooted in rights, dignity, and justice for all.

Warm regards, The ASTRA Network Team