KATHMANDU, OCTOBER 6
Excessive rains last week caused widespread flooding and landslides throughout Nepal, posing a terrible natural disaster. Relief efforts are still in progress, but they have not paid enough attention to the needs of the LGBTI community, especially those who identify as third gender.
In an interview with the Himalayan Times, the Cultural Emissary for Inclusive (Pink/Rainbow/LGBT+) Tourism in Nepal, Sunil Babu Pant, said, "This oversight highlights a significant gap in disaster relief and climate change mitigation policies that fail to address the unique vulnerabilities faced by marginalised groups."
Meanwhile, as Nepal grapples with the aftermath of the floods, the government and various non-governmental organisations (NGOs) have been mobilising to provide assistance.
"However, reports indicate that relief measures do not adequately consider the LGBTI community, which is already marginalised and at a higher risk during such crises," he said.
"Many individuals in this community, particularly third-gender persons, often face discrimination when seeking housing and employment, making them more susceptible to the adverse effects of disasters."
Pant, who is also the Executive Director of Mayako Pahichan Nepal, emphasised that for many third-gender people, renting safe housing is difficult, forcing them into vulnerable situations. They often find themselves in substandard housing in flood-prone areas, exacerbating the effects of natural disasters.
The recent flooding in Nepal has rendered many of these people homeless, with limited access to necessary relief efforts.
"One notable example is Shashi Kadam, an NGO based in Butwal City, Rupandehi District, which has been working to provide small relief materials to affected third-gender individuals. Their efforts, while commendable, highlight the broader systemic issue of exclusion faced by the LGBTI community in disaster response plans," he added.
According to Pant, the lack of inclusion in disaster relief and climate change mitigation policies reflects a broader societal disregard while also posing significant challenges to recovery efforts.
He said, "Many in the LGBTI community find themselves invisible in the eyes of policymakers, resulting in inadequate support during times of crisis. This is particularly concerning given that climate change is expected to increase the frequency and intensity of such natural disasters, placing already vulnerable populations at even greater risk."
He also highlighted that in order to create a more inclusive disaster response framework, it is crucial for policymakers and organisations to actively engage with the LGBTI community. "This includes ensuring that relief projects address their specific needs, as well as incorporating their voices in climate change discussions," he added.
"As Nepal continues to navigate the aftermath of these floods, it is imperative that the needs of all citizens-especially the most vulnerable-are recognised and addressed," said Pant, the founder of Blue Diamond Society and Nepal's first openly gay member of Parliament.
He also told THT that ensuring equitable and inclusive relief efforts will not only aid in recovery but also foster a sense of community resilience against future disasters.
"The road ahead requires a commitment to understanding and addressing the unique challenges faced by marginalised groups, ensuring that no one is left behind in times of crisis."
