Seventh Nepal Pride Parade

On June 14, 2025, Queer Youth Group (QYG), in collaboration with Queer Rights Collective (QRC), successfully hosted the seventh Nepal Pride Parade (NPP) at Narayan Chaur, Naxal, Kathmandu. This year’s Pride marked a significant milestone as it was the first time QYG independently led the overall coordination and execution of the program, with QRC offering strategic support.

In a notable shift from previous years, the event was conducted in the afternoon from 1 PM to 6 PM. This adjustment was based on participant feedback and health considerations, aimed at reducing exposure to intense mid-day heat and making the event more physically accessible, safe, and inclusive.

Challenges and Political Climate

The planning process was shaped by an unstable political climate, characterized by ongoing protests and intensified government restrictions on public gatherings. The rising frequency of crackdowns on civil assemblies generated serious concerns around the feasibility of the event, safety of attendees, and risks of last-minute intervention by authorities.

In response, QYG carried out a risk assessment and considered alternative venues that might offer lower security scrutiny. However, based on accessibility, historical familiarity, and symbolic continuity, Narayan Chaur remained the most viable option. Navigating complex layers of bureaucratic approval for the rally, route, and stage setup required multiple engagements with municipal offices. Despite delays and ambiguities, necessary permissions were ultimately secured.

Strategic Planning and Execution

Learning from past years and adapting to current challenges, QYG implemented several key strategies to ensure a smooth, inclusive, and secure event:

• Route Diversification: In compliance with new restrictions on public gatherings, the march avoided the Durbar Marg zone. As in previous years, participants first gathered at Shanti Batika (Pukhusi Kyaba). From there, the rally proceeded via Tri Chandra College, then continued along Kamaladi Road, Hatisar Sadak, and Narayanhiti Path, before reaching the final venue at Narayan Chaur. The updated route provided more shade and ease of access, and was positively received by participants for enhancing overall comfort and movement.
• Accessibility Enhancements: All digital communication materials were supplemented with audio components. Content was translated into four additional indigenous languages, including Tibetan, Thulung Rai, Yakthung (Limbu), and Tamu (Gurung), to promote linguistic justice and expand outreach.
• Infrastructure Improvements: For the first time, the organizing team introduced tents for shade and a designated changing room for performers. These additions addressed gaps identified in previous events and improved overall participant experience.
• Program Management: A structured performance and speaker schedule ensured time efficiency and program flow, allowing for smooth transitions and sustained engagement.
• Volunteer Mobilization: In collaboration with QRC, QYG facilitated pre-event volunteer training to strengthen logistical coordination, crowd support, and crisis response. Volunteers were instrumental in designing banners, organizing slogans, and assisting participants throughout the program.
• Resource Mobilization: Although this year’s fundraising outcomes were lower compared to previous years, the organizing team drew upon community-based support and internal resources to bridge the funding gap. This reflected a commitment to self-sufficiency and solidarity.
• Digital Advocacy: A robust online presence amplified the message of Pride beyond physical attendees, ensuring national and international visibility, especially among diasporic and remote queer communities.

Day-of Implementation

On the day of the event, the organizing team completed the setup of stage infrastructure and shade tents in the early morning hours. QYG team members were actively stationed across all coordination points, enabling the program to begin punctually for the first time in its history.

Attendance was diverse, with representation from multiple queer identities, ethnic groups, regions, and language communities. This reflected the pluralism of Nepal’s queer movement. As the event neared its conclusion, officials from the Metropolitan Office and local police visited the site to verify the legality of the gathering. Equipped with all relevant documentation, the organizing team responded confidently and demonstrated full compliance with all legal and administrative requirements. This proactive preparedness prevented disruption and allowed the program to conclude peacefully.

Outcomes and Impact

Despite significant external challenges, Nepal Pride Parade 2025 concluded successfully. It exemplified QYG’s capacity to lead complex, large-scale public events under uncertain conditions. The implementation of new strategies, particularly around timing, accessibility, and volunteer systems, resulted in a program that was more inclusive, coordinated, and community-driven than previous years.

The event reaffirmed the value of queer-led planning, inter-organizational collaboration, and resilience-based organizing, particularly in politically volatile environments.