Transgender Network Switzerland (TGNS)

Transgender Network Switzerland (TGNS) undertakes political advocacy and public communications in support of Switzerland’s trans community. Its legal advice service is available to trans people and to other individuals or institutions with legal questions relating to trans issues. Topics include health insurance reimbursement, official changes to first names and civil status, asylum, and rights and responsibilities at work.[2][7]

For workplace concerns, TGNS directs people to the trans welcome portal. Trans people and businesses can find information and individual consultations addressing workplace challenges alongside legal and organisational questions. Support with mediation is also available in specific crises involving trans issues. Discussions are confidential and tailored to the people involved. Talks and training are offered to businesses and their staff as well.[8]

The Romandie group provides opportunities to meet others, share experiences and find mutual support. It welcomes trans, non-binary and intersex people, people whose gender identity falls outside conventional norms, and those questioning their gender. Meetings take place in Lausanne on the second Monday of the month; the Voqueer calendar lists dates and any exceptions. Special activities are sometimes arranged. For individual support with personal matters, the group directs people primarily to Checkpoint Vaud and Fondation Agnodice.[9]

Membership supports TGNS’s political advocacy and public communications. Members receive association news and information about trans issues, can submit proposals before the general assembly and take part in decisions by voting. Applications can be made online. Confirmation should be received before paying the annual subscription. For combined membership, applications go through the partner organisation, which also issues the invoice.[2][4]

An initial legal enquiry can be sent to legal@tgns.ch. TGNS asks people to read the legal information on its website first. The message should briefly explain who is affected, the problem and the questions that need answering. The advice team then identifies any further information or documents needed and the appropriate way to communicate: email, telephone or an individual meeting.[7]

The office is at Monbijoustrasse 73, 3007 Bern. Office opening hours are Monday and Wednesday, 09:00–12:00 and 13:00–17:00. The contact page temporarily directs enquiries to email; the relevant address is unverified here. These office hours do not confirm telephone advice or advice for visitors without appointments.[3]