Against the shifting global political climate, where anti-LGBTQIA+ sentiment is resurging in various regions, around 600 queer activists and human rights defenders from across Asia have convened in Kathmandu for the 10th ILGA Asia Conference.

The five-day conference, which began on Monday at the Soaltee Hotel, is the largest international LGBTQIA+ gathering ever hosted in Nepal, according to the organisers.

Organised by ILGA Asia, the regional branch of the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, and Intersex Association (ILGA), a global federation advocating for LGBTIQ+ rights, with Blue Diamond Society serving as the country host, the conference comes at a critical juncture.

Experts say the queer communities across the regions need to come together urgently to resist the growing tide of anti-gender and anti-queer movements emboldened by socio-political climate.

“Bringing this conference to Kathmandu is a statement to the world that LGBTQIA+ rights belong at the heart of our societies,” said Manisha Dhakal, executive director of Blue Diamond Society. “This is an opportunity for Nepal to lead discussions that shape policies across Asia.”

Speaking at the event, Henry Koh, executive director of ILGA Asia, had a metaphorical take on the event’s organisation in Kathmandu. “In this city cradled by the Himalayas, we are reminded that mountains are not just landscapes. They are symbols of endurance–standing tall against time and tide,” Koh said. “And isn’t that what it means to be queer in Asia? To exist in a world that tries to erode us, yet remain unshaken?”

That sentiment resonated with the participants at the conference as discussions addressed marriage equality, the impact of political repression, and strategies to counteract anti-rights movements. Another focus was on youth-led advocacy, ensuring that emerging leaders are empowered to continue the fight for justice.

Addressing the opening plenary session on Wednesday, Minister for Women, Children, and Senior Citizens Nawal Kishor Sah Sudi reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting LGBTQIA+ rights.

“Every person shall have the right to speak up about their identity, sexual orientation, be free from discrimination and violence, and to achieve equality,” Sudi said.

But activists like Dhakal pointed out key areas where Nepal still falls short.

Many same-sex couples still struggle to access marriage licenses due to bureaucratic resistance at local government offices, they said, adding that Nepal’s legal gender recognition process remains restrictive.

“Our policy on legal gender recognition does not yet reflect the principle of self-determination,” Dhakal said. “Individuals must present a medical report to access a citizenship ID—whether they choose the ‘Other’ category or identify as ‘Male’ or ‘Female.’ This needs to change.”

The conference highlighted the stark contradictions in the progress of LGBTQIA+ rights across Asia.

Thailand recently became the first Southeast Asian nation to legalise same-sex marriage, with over 1,800 couples registering their unions on the first day. Nepal has seen progress through a landmark Supreme Court ruling affirming transgender rights and a government directive supporting same-sex marriage registration.

However, elsewhere in the region, setbacks persist. South Korea has seen incremental legal victories, but conservative opposition remains strong. In Central Asia, governments are tightening restrictions, rolling back hard-won freedoms.

Activists say the progress made in a small country like Nepal can inspire other countries across the world to follow suit.

“It proves that we should not be viewed as mere recipients of charity, but rather as changemakers—worthy of investment and partnership.” Dhakal said.

For grassroots activists, the conference is a rare opportunity to share their experiences and learn from global advocacy strategies.

“That this conference brings together 600 participants at a time when homophobic sentiments are rising globally is a political statement,” said Neha Lama, a queer woman from Koshi Province. “The queer rights movement will not stop… we will resist in solidarity.”

She also highlighted how hosting the event in Nepal allows participation from marginalised communities.

Raj Chaudhary, a transgender man from Sudurpaschim Province, reflected on Nepal’s shortcomings in trans healthcare and legal protections.

“We cannot forever remain content that Nepal is relatively more progressive [compared to many other Asian countries],” Chaudhary said. “We need to move forward more strongly.”

With LGBTQIA+ rights at the crossroads in Asia, Nepal’s hosting of this event sends a powerful message, say the participants.

“This conference is a declaration. A promise. A resistance. It is about possibility,” Koh said. “About what we can build when we are diverse, dynamic and united.”