Imagine surviving a homophobic knife attack in Nepal 20+ years ago – only to see your country become a beacon for LGBTQ+ rights today. That’s the seismic shift journalist Sudeshna Sarkar highlights as Asia redefines equality. From Himalayan villages to bustling cities, change is accelerating… but not everywhere.
🏔️ Nepal’s Trailblazing Journey: After decriminalizing same-sex relationships in 2007, Nepal now recognizes third-gender citizens and even issues LGBTQ+ inclusion passports. Talk about glow-up goals!
🇨🇳 China’s Quiet Evolution: While the Chinese mainland decriminalized homosexuality in 1997 (bye-bye, outdated laws!), 2023 saw Hong Kong flex its rainbow pride by co-hosting the Gay Games. Pro tip: This wasn’t just about sports – it was a cultural touchdown.
But here’s the plot twist: Laws ≠ instant acceptance. New documentary Correct Me If I Am Wrong, screening at New Zealand’s Doc Edge Festival, reveals how rural areas and older generations still grapple with LGBTQ+ visibility. Think of it as Asia’s ‘two steps forward, one step back’ dance.
💡 Why It Matters: As Sarkar notes, progress needs patience. Legal wins are just Level 1 – changing hearts and minds? That’s the boss battle. With Gen Z pushing conversations from Tokyo to TikTok, the next chapter looks 🔥.
