Thailand advances to first round of bid to host WorldPride 2030

2026-03-12 - 12:34

BANGKOK — Thailand has advanced to the first round in its bid to host the global LGBTQ+ event WorldPride 2030, with Bangkok competing alongside London and Barcelona, officials said. The development was discussed at a preparatory meeting on 11 March chaired by Natthriya Thaweevong, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, as authorities and partners coordinated efforts to strengthen Thailand’s proposal. The meeting brought together representatives from the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, the Department of Tourism, the Tourism Authority of Thailand, the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau and private-sector partner Narumit Pride Co., Ltd. at the Government Complex in Bangkok. Natthriya said bidding to host WorldPride 2030 presents an important opportunity for Thailand to showcase its tourism potential, capacity to organise international events and commitment to social openness. Participants discussed cooperation between government agencies, the private sector and civil society to prepare infrastructure, tourist facilitation, public relations campaigns and activities that meet international standards. If Thailand secures the hosting rights, the event would help boost high-quality tourism, generate economic activity and enhance the country’s image as a diverse and welcoming destination, she said. Thailand is promoting its recent progress on marriage equality and the strength of its LGBTQ+ community as key advantages in the bid, with hopes of becoming the first country in Asia to host the global pride festival. WorldPride is a series of international LGBTQ+ pride events coordinated by InterPride, with host cities selected through bids voted on at the organisation’s annual general meeting.