KATHMANDU, Dec 14: An international tourism conference focusing on sexual and gender minorities is set to take place in Nepal for the first time. Under the theme 'Journey to Happiness,' the conference for sexual and gender minorities is scheduled for January 18 and 19, next year.

In collaboration with Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), Maya's Identity Nepal, Pahichan Foundation, and Gorkha International Rainbow, the tourism promotion conference is being organized. Nandini Lahe Thapa, Senior Director of the NTB, announced that this groundbreaking conference aims to convey the message that Nepal is an ideal destination for individuals from sexual and gender minority communities.

Maya Gurung and Surendra Pandey, who achieved the milestone of registering the first rainbow marriage in South Asia, expressed hope that the tourism conference would generate employment opportunities for community members. Maya and Surendra, recognized as Nepal's first same-sex couple with a legally acknowledged marriage on November 29 after a prolonged legal battle, have contributed to Nepal becoming the first South Asian country to allow same-sex marriages.

The LGBTI International Tourism Conference in Nepal coincides with significant developments in the rights of sexual and gender minorities in the 21st century. Nepal's constitution has officially recognized the fundamental rights of sexual and gender minority citizens, marking a positive shift in societal attitudes.

The initiative for the International Tourism Conference was spearheaded by Sunil Babu Pant, Asia's first gay parliamentarian, and a key participant in unifying the Jakarta Principles. Pant emphasized the potential economic and touristic benefits for Nepal, which, having secured the rights of sexual and gender minorities, can further distinguish itself in the region.

Pant highlighted the economic impact of similar initiatives in Spain, where up to 20 percent of the economy benefited when targeting the LGBTQ+ community. He urged local, national, and international partners to support the conference, emphasizing its role in advancing economic and touristic prospects.

With neighboring countries like India and China lacking the recognition of same-sex marriages, Pant sees an opportunity for Nepal to capitalize on tourism and drive positive economic changes. The conference is expected to draw participation from 50 individuals representing sexual and gender minorities from Nepal and abroad, fostering inclusivity, diversity, and economic growth.

 
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