Advocacy for same-sex marriage equality

KATHMANDU, Dec 23: Yuwalaya, a youth-led organization, with the support of Blue Diamond Society, Federation of Sexual and Gender Minorities Nepal (FSGMN), and in coordination of Right Here Right Now (RHRN) organized a panel discussion on Wednesday to discuss the present condition of legal provisions and policies regarding marriage equality in Nepal at various levels. 

According to a press statement by Yuwalaya, the discussion concluded that though Nepal is a progressive country regarding marriage equality as compared to the South Asian countries, Nepali people are still not ready to change their mindset and accept the LGBTIQ community with an open heart. 

Participants at the discussion also concluded that given the situation, LGBTIQ people are more likely to stay in temporary relationship or get involved with multiple partners, and consequently are prone to HIV/AIDS as well as mental and physical torture.

They also agreed upon the need for awareness among people about marriage equality and simultaneous advocacy to instill an environment where people can come out and discuss their preferences openly, the statement added.

The panel included Blue Diamond Society President Pinky Gurung, Annapurna Post reporter Nitu Ghale, senior freelance advocate Hari Phuyal and Ministry of Women Children and Social Welfare Under Secretary Bharat Raj Sharma.