ILGA Asia Welcomes Dr. Charbel Maydaa as New Co-Chair Amidst Executive Board Reshuffle

[Bangkok, 6 October 2023] – In our commitment to transparency and engagement, ILGA Asia announces a key leadership shift within our Executive Board to our valued members, stakeholders, and broader community.

Esan Regmi (he/him), our Executive Board co-chair and Intersex Representative, has made the difficult decision to temporarily step back from his position due to personal challenges. We extend our support and utmost respect for his decision during this challenging period. We recognize the importance of making this announcement to ensure our community remains informed and engaged during times of change.

Following a comprehensive Executive Board discussion and quorum convened on 3 October 2023 – in accordance with ILGA Asia’s constitution, the Executive Board takes great pleasure in announcing the nomination and appointment of Dr. Charbel Maydaa (they/them) as the new co-chair of ILGA Asia. Dr. Maydaa, who currently serves as the West Asia Representative on our Executive Board, has been duly informed and confirmed for this appointment. 

We remain deeply committed to transparency in our operations and are dedicated to keeping our valued community members and stakeholders informed of this pivotal development. ILGA Asia’s Executive Board is currently engaged in the process to accommodate this change in our Executive Leadership. These endeavors are undertaken with the goal of ensuring a seamless transition and the uninterrupted pursuit of ILGA Asia's mission to promote and safeguard the rights of LGBTIQ communities across the region.

We extend our heartfelt best wishes and gratitude to Esan Regmi for his dedicated service as our co-chair and for his decision during this challenging time. We wish Esan all the best in his future endeavors.

We warmly welcome Dr. Charbel Maydaa to their new role as co-chair of ILGA Asia’s Executive Board. We have full confidence in their expertise, capacities, and look forward to working alongside them as we continue our vital work to advancing the rights and well-being of LGBTIQ communities across Asia. 

We wholeheartedly express our sincere appreciation for the ongoing support and understanding by our members, stakeholders, and partners during this transitional phase. We remain steadfast in our dedication to advancing the rights and well-being of LGBTIQ communities throughout Asia.

Warmest regards, 

ILGA Asia Executive Board 

For further  inquiries, please contact: cochairs@ilgaasia.org or board@ilgaasia.org