Cambodia: International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia celebrated in style in Battambang

On May 17, to mark the International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia, the city of Battambang vibrated to the rhythm of diversity and inclusion during the local PRIDE.

This major event, supported by the French Embassy in Cambodia, brought together nearly a hundred participants for a program rich in emotion, artistic performances and awareness-raising activities.

A strong, multi-faceted mobilization

Organized by a collective of committed players - Health Action Coordinating Committee (HACC), TPO Cambodia, Bandanh Chaktumuk (BC) and the Young Key Populations (YKP) networks - the Battambang PRIDE offered a platform for expression and celebration for the LGBT+ community and its allies. The day was marked by a series of varied activities, ranging from traditional and modern dance, to theater, committed songs and a spectacular Drag Show.

The event also featured awareness-raising workshops designed to strengthen understanding and respect for the rights of LGBT+ people, as well as moments of commemoration to honor the fight against discrimination.

A remarkable institutional and artistic presence

The ceremony was attended by leading personalities, including His Excellency Mr Tia Phalla, Vice-President of the National AIDS Authority, and representatives of the Battambang Provincial AIDS Committee. Organizations such as Phare Ponleu Selpak, Save the Children, Maison du Sourire and MHC also lent their support, testifying to a broad institutional commitment.

The artistic side shone particularly brightly with performances by dance groups from the Provincial Department of Culture and Fine Arts, the Champa Meas Tes and “The Flash” troupes, and the Miss Queen Battambang troupe led by Rebeca Chan. Singers Kao Sarith, C Benato and Vichhun delighted the audience, while comedy duo Rith Daro and Davin combined humor and messages of inclusion with brio.

A growing provincial movement

PRIDE Battambang is part of the wider ប្រ៉ាយឆ្លងស្រុក Pride Chlong Sruk project, an initiative to promote spaces of expression and visibility for the LGBT+ community in Cambodia's provinces. After Battambang, similar events are planned in Takeo, Kampong Cham and Preah Sihanouk, testifying to a growing momentum for equality and recognition of LGBT+ rights outside the capital Phnom Penh.

This celebration in Battambang is a perfect illustration of the growing strength of LGBT+ rights movements in Cambodia, supported by local and international partners. By combining culture, awareness-raising and political commitment, PRIDE is helping to break down prejudice and build a more inclusive society, where every individual can flourish freely, without fear or discrimination.