In a broader European context, LGBTIQA+ rights continue to encounter challenges, turning Europe into a battleground where right-wing populists promote discrimination, hate speech, homophobia, and transphobia. Successes by these populists in forming governments have led to the erosion of hard-won achievements by previous generations of activists and inclusive decision-makers. The socio-political discussions of the past decade on LGBTIQA+ rights have highlighted key themes, including hate speech and hate crimes, trans rights, migration and asylum. In South Asia, progress in LGBTIQA+ rights is unfolding amidst a complex interplay of change and challenges. Over the past two decades, increased visibility and legal recognition have been evident. However, the region grapples with the influence of right-wing governments, populism, economic crises, and socio-political unpredictability.

The South Asia and European Union offices of the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom in Brussels organized the European Dialogue to better understand the state of being Queer & LGBTIQA+ in South Asia and Europe. Through this European Dialogue, they sought to actively encourage political debate and develop innovative liberal policies amidst the numerous ongoing elections in South Asia and the upcoming European Union elections in 2024. This diverse panel delved deeply into the contemporary landscape of being Queer and LGBTIQA+ in both regions, exploring the nuanced dynamics of progress, setbacks and delays. The European Dialogue shed light on the reciprocal influence between South Asia and Europe, offering valuable insights into how these regions can actively engage in mutual learning and growth from each other's experiences.