IGLTA Foundation Unveils New Report on Addressing LGBTQ+ Workplace Challenges in Asia’s Tourism Sector

Published on December 18, 2024

Today, the IGLTA Foundation, the charitable branch of the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association, unveiled a new report titled “Addressing LGBTQ+ Workplace Challenges in Tourism within Asia.” The publication sheds light on actionable strategies for tourism enterprises in Asia to foster more inclusive work environments. This initiative follows a series of discussions at the Leadership Think Tank session held during the 2024 IGLTA Global Convention in Osaka, Japan.

“Creating welcoming workplaces for LGBTQ+ staff isn’t just the right thing to do, it also improves the overall travel experience for everyone,” said John Tanzella (he/him), IGLTA President/CEO. “This Think Tank was a significant moment for the LGBTQ+ tourism industry in Asia. By creating regionally focused spaces for sharing experiences and best practices, we can help our members build a welcoming future for LGBTQ+ travelers and industry professionals in a way that will resonate with their communities.”

“This Think Tank united Asian experts to discuss workplace challenges faced by LGBTQ+ employees. What thrilled me was how we exchanged our practices from Asian perspectives,” said Dr. Bella Vongvisitsin (she/her), Hong Kong Metropolitan University and Think Tank co-moderator. “We found that cultural attitudes, societal norms, and sometimes legal complexities, are paramount in addressing LGBTQ+ workplace issues. This will be a long journey, requiring continual dialogue, and it has already been kicked off in Osaka!”

“Simpleview was proud to sponsor the IGLTA Foundation Think Tank and be part of this exclusive gathering of thought leaders dedicated to advancing LGBTQ+ tourism,” said Sandee Jordan (she/her), Simpleview and Think Tank participant. “This event truly reflects our shared commitment to fostering collaboration, driving innovation, and championing inclusion in the global tourism industry.”

Asia, home to over 60% of the global population, showcases immense diversity across its 48 nations. However, the level of LGBTQ+ rights and societal acceptance varies widely, influencing not only LGBTQ+ travelers but also the LGBTQ+ workforce in the region’s tourism sector.

The Leadership Think Tank pinpointed five critical strategies for cultivating a fair and welcoming tourism industry:

• Visibility: Establishing a secure environment where LGBTQ+ employees can openly express their identities.
• Commitment Beyond Policy: Ensuring ongoing efforts and solidifying support for LGBTQ+ inclusion.
• Leading by Example: Encouraging companies to offer equal benefits for LGBTQ+ staff, beyond what the law requires.
• The Power of Intersectionality: Adopting this approach to deepen empathy and awareness of LGBTQ+ concerns within the workforce.
• Investing in the Future: Focusing on identifying and developing future LGBTQ+ leaders in tourism across Asia.

This iteration of the Leadership Think Tank was made possible by Simpleview and took place at the Swissôtel Nankai Osaka, hosted by the Osaka Convention and Tourism Bureau.

The panel was jointly led by Mie Kitano of SynFiny Advisors and Dr. Bella Vongvisitsin from Hong Kong Metropolitan University.

The IGLTA Foundation extends gratitude to the distinguished participants for their invaluable insights, including Shintaro Koizumi from Out Asia Travel, Maki Muraki of Nijiiro Diversity with assistance from Yoshino Sakka, a student volunteer translator from Ritsumeikan University, and several others from organizations like Ace Hotel Kyoto, Simpleview, the UN, Airbnb, and various global firms and institutions.

The Foundation’s Leadership Think Tank stands as a crucial platform for leading figures from globally recognized LGBTQ+ friendly firms and destinations to discuss pivotal challenges and opportunities in LGBTQ+ tourism and community engagement.