Kathmandu : In the face of hardship and challenges in finding jobs, the sexual and gender minorities (SGM) of Nepal are seeking equal access to employment opportunities. Limited job opportunities have often forced them into informal works like flesh trade, leading to social stigma.

“The society must understand our struggle, treat us equally and create job opportunities for us,” demanded the community members. Stakeholders have highlighted awareness and job creations for changes.

For changes, the community should be informed about their rights and duties, viewed Madhu KC, Vice President of Mayako Pahichan Nepal (MKPN), a non-governmental organisation advocating for SGM rights.

“Non-acceptance is the main cause behind the backwardness of the community. Education and awareness are the key in bringing changes in the society.”

He was speaking at an empowerment programme on ensuring the right to information for women, and the SGMs organised by Arpan Poverty Alleviation with the financial support of the Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC).

Admitting that people from the community are facing hardship due to discrimination and lack of employment opportunities, Ram Kumar KC, chair of the KMC Ward-10 emphasised awareness and skills trainings to combat the problems.

With the aim of generating jobs for as many as 2,081 people, the KMC organised an employment fair in Kathmandu, he informed, stressing that people from the community should open up and grab any opportunities provided by the state.

He underscored the need for ensuring rights and providing the identity card to the people from the community. “I have offered to provide facilities by giving the identity card. You (SGM people) should open up and come forward.”

He also pledged to manage the allocation of budget for the SGMs in the coming financial year, and provide skills trainings for them so they can earn Rs 50,000 a month each for an instance.

Arpana Khadka, President of Arpana Poverty Alleviation, pledged continued cooperation with the SGMs, moving forward hand in hand for their rights.
The programme concluded with MKPN calling for continued collaboration among stakeholders, the government, and SGMs to create a more inclusive and better future for SGMs.

In return, Karina Puri, a law student, volunteered to advocate for their rights.