Pakistan gay rights
Home / gay topics / Pakistan gay rights
When traveling within the country, maintain a low profile and avoid attracting unnecessary attention to your personal life.
Please note that situations can change quickly, and information may become outdated.
According to recent survey data available, societal resistance to LGBTQ+ rights in Pakistan is noticeable.
Survey results from 11 LGBTQ+ Equaldex users who lived in or visited Pakistan.
Perceived Safety*Absence of verbal harassmentAbsence of threats and violence*Survey results represent personal perceptions of safety and may not be indicative of current actual conditions.
Equal TreatmentTreatment by general publicTreatment by law enforcementTreatment by religious groups
Visibility & RepresentationRepresentation in entertainment
CultureInterest groups and clubs
ServicesSupport and social services
History
Homosexual activity in Pakistan
?Homosexual activity in Pakistan is illegal (up to life in prison as punishment).
On March 12, five transgender persons suffered critical injuries when a man opened fired at them in the Upper Chania area of Mansehra District. The Pakistani Penal Code of 1860, developed under the British Raj, criminalizes sodomy, with penalties ranging from two years to life imprisonment and fines. We want to be sure you know how and why we use your data.
In contrast, tourists may not face the same level of scrutiny or potential legal consequences.
To ensure your safety and well-being while in Pakistan, consider the following steps:
- Stay informed: Keep yourself updated on the current situation regarding LGBT rights in Pakistan. Not only does Pakistan criminalise same-sex sexual activity, it also fails to properly protect other vulnerable groups, such as women and children, from sexual offences.
Enforcement
2020
In August it was reported that the Lahore High Court had issued an arrest warrant for a trans man accused of entering into a ‘same-sex marriage’ with a cisgender woman.
Adopting a professional, respectful, and cautious approach will not only protect oneself but also show solidarity with the LGBT community in Pakistan as they continue their fight for greater rights and acceptance.
History Of LGBT Rights In Pakistan
The history of LGBT rights in Pakistan is a complex narrative.
As in any country, there may be bad actors, so maintaining vigilance and being aware of any changes in the social and legal climate should be a priority. A spokesman of the PTA (Pakistan’s internet regulator) gave reasons for the censorship: “We blocked the website under the law because its content was against Islam and norms of Pakistani society.”
For the first time in the country’s history, several transgender women ran for public office in the May general election.
2012
A qualitative study published in BMC International Health and Human Rights found that “the transgender community is socially excluded by Pakistani society which is leading them to indulge in commercial sex and putting their lives at risk.”
References
1.
Penal Code 1860, Section 377 Unnatural Offences
“Whoever voluntarily has carnal intercourse against the order of nature with any man, woman or animal, shall be punished with imprisonment for life, or with imprisonment of either description for a term which shall not be less than two years nor more than ten years, and shall also be liable to fine.
Remain vigilant, stay informed, and stay safe as you explore Pakistan’s vibrant culture and history.
Protect Yourself While Travelling In Gay Pakistan
As a traveler visiting Pakistan, it is essential to stay informed about the local LGBT rights situation and take necessary precautions to protect yourself.
This provision carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. One of them, Nayab Ali, had her candidacy challenged in court. Trans activists complained police did not act against targeted attacks on the community and remained indifferent despite several protests. Sentences include a maximum penalty of death.
Iran criminalises same-sex sexual activity between men and between women.
Although the situation for transgender individuals has seen marked improvement, it is crucial for travelers to remain vigilant and cautious while navigating the country’s complex societal norms. Explanation: Penetration is sufficient to constitute the carnal intercourse necessary to the offence described in this section.” Full text.
The level of acceptance and tolerance differs across various regions, with urban areas likely being more open-minded than rural communities. Always seek current advice before traveling and be prepared for unexpected challenges. Maintaining a low profile, particularly in regard to public displays of affection, will help minimize potential risks.
It’s also important to remember that circumstances can change quickly, and information may be outdated.
Monitor news and developments before and during your trip, as situations can change rapidly. While homosexual acts remain illegal, they are only sporadically prosecuted by authorities. Tourists should also stay alert to their surroundings and keep up to date with the latest information, as situations can change rapidly, and information can become outdated.
It is also crucial for visitors to connect with local LGBT organizations while in Pakistan, as they will have the most accurate information about the situation on the ground and can provide advice on how best to navigate the landscape.