Nepal : US Aid Cuts and Their Impact on the ILGA-Asia Conference

Reduction in US aid to ILGA-Asia

A Landmark Event for LGBTQIA Rights in Asia

The ILGA-Asia annual conference recently took place in Kathmandu, Nepal, setting a historic milestone as the largest LGBTQIA gathering ever held in the country. More than 600 activists, leaders, and allies from across Asia and beyond came together to discuss strategies for advancing LGBTQIA rights and improving community conditions. However, the event unfolded in a challenging financial climate, as the United States scaled back its funding for global health and human rights initiatives— a shift that could have far-reaching consequences for LGBTQIA advocacy in the region.

A Platform for Inclusion and Social Progress

Running from February 24 to 28 under the theme “Diversity in Motion: Uniting for a Just, Inclusive, and Sustainable Asia”, the conference was jointly organized by ILGA-Asia and Nepal’s leading LGBTQIA organization, the Blue Diamond Society (BDS). The gathering facilitated discussions on critical topics such as the impact of humanitarian crises on LGBTQIA individuals, marriage equality movements in various Asian countries, and the importance of intersectional activism in advancing human rights.

Nepal’s Role as a Regional Leader in LGBTQIA Rights

Manisha Dhakal, Executive Director of BDS, emphasized Nepal’s pioneering role in LGBTQIA policymaking. “Love is central to our identities and activism. This conference has demonstrated that love is not just personal—it is a force for justice and change. Nepal’s progress should inspire neighboring countries to take bold steps toward equality,” she said in an interview.

At the opening ceremony on February 26, Nepal’s Minister for Women, Children, and Senior Citizens, Nawal Kishor Sah Sudi, reaffirmed the government’s stance on LGBTQIA rights. “Every individual has the right to live freely, express their identity without fear, and enjoy equal protection under the law,” he stated.

LGBTQIA Progress and Ongoing Struggles Across Asia

The conference highlighted key victories in the region, such as Thailand’s recognition of same-sex unions, Taiwan’s legalization of same-sex marriage, and Nepal’s progressive steps in transgender rights. However, activists also discussed rising challenges, with some Asian governments intensifying restrictions and discrimination against LGBTQIA communities.

“This gathering is more than just a discussion—it is a commitment, a show of resilience, and a vision for a more inclusive future. When we come together as a diverse and dynamic movement, we can drive real change,” said ILGA-Asia Executive Director Henry Koh.

Debate Over Funding Priorities

While the conference was a moment of empowerment, it also sparked debate over financial priorities. Sunil Babu Pant, founder of the Blue Diamond Society and Nepal’s first openly gay parliamentarian, voiced concerns about the allocation of funds. He questioned whether hosting such a large event was the best use of resources, especially in light of reduced US funding.

“Investing in 200 smaller grassroots organizations instead of a single large-scale conference could have a deeper impact. Donors and advocates must carefully assess how to maximize funding efficiency and ensure that support reaches communities in need,” Pant told local media.

He also highlighted the reliance of many Asian LGBTQIA organizations on foreign funding, particularly from the US. “While long-term solutions should focus on local sustainability, the immediate challenge remains: securing enough resources to sustain our movements until we build strong domestic support networks,” he cautioned.

Striking a Balance Between Visibility and Grassroots Support

The ILGA-Asia conference successfully amplified LGBTQIA visibility across the region and strengthened activist networks. However, with declining international funding, finding the right balance between large-scale advocacy events and direct community support remains a pressing challenge. The future of LGBTQIA rights in Asia will depend on how well advocates and donors navigate these shifting financial realities while ensuring meaningful change for the most marginalized groups.

Source : https://queervibesmag.com/reduction-in-us-aid-to-ilga-asia/