Women-friendly workplaces are crucial for economic growth
Community leaders say they are still denied jobs, housing, education and even basic identification, facing daily humiliation in schools, hospitals and government offices
Bangladesh's hijra community remains trapped in systemic exclusion despite official recognition as a Hijra gender.
Community leaders say they are still denied jobs, housing, education and even basic identification, facing daily humiliation in schools, hospitals and government offices.
Welfare schemes exist but come with insensitive requirements that often reinforce stigma. As policymakers debate broader reforms, hijra voices call for dignity, legal protection and inclusion that goes beyond symbolic recognition, a society where their rights are acknowledged in practice, not just on paper.
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Ms Anuri Hijra, President, Padda Kuri Hijra Shongho
Despite numerous challenges and persistent social barriers, many Hijra individuals have achieved remarkable success and secured representation in political and social spheres. Inspirational figures from the community have carved paths through hard work and dedication.
Entrepreneurs like Cynthia, Shova, Shammi and Chaity have made their mark in business, while professionals such as Sagarika in Rajshahi provide counselling services. Some have assumed leadership roles - Nazrul Islam Ritu is a Union Parishad chairman in Jhenaidah.
These examples highlight the resilience, talent and determination of the Hijra community, proving that given opportunity, they can thrive and contribute meaningfully to society.
Ms Mohona, President, Diner Alo Hijra Shongha, Rajshahi
Accessing legal support is still a difficult journey for us. Lengthy and complex procedures make many give up midway. Although the government has issued directives recognising the Hijra community and promising legal aid, implementation remains patchy. Many officials are unaware of how to apply these rules, and weak enforcement combined with lack of awareness leaves us without real protection.
We simply want equal dignity and justice under the law. We need these directives properly monitored and enforced, simplified and inclusive legal procedures, and stronger coordination between legal aid institutions and community organisations so that support is accessible, and genuinely helpful.
Ms Sadia Islam Nishat, Communication, Bangladesh Hijra Unnayan Shangstha
As a Hijra student, I often face bullying, harassment, and discrimination in schools, making learning environments unwelcoming. Many of us drop out early because classrooms are neither inclusive nor supportive.
There is also a lack of policies addressing our specific educational needs, limiting access to quality education and support services. We want education to be truly for everyone. Inclusive policies recognising the rights of Hijra students, gender-sensitivity and anti-bullying training for teachers and staff, and mental health counselling can create safe, respectful learning spaces.
Priya Khan, Entrepreneur
As a Bangladeshi citizen, I often face barriers in fulfilling my civic duties due to social stigma and lack of recognition for my identity. Without acceptance and legal acknowledgment, our ability to fully participate in national development is limited.
We want equal rights and responsibilities as citizens; not just on paper, but in practice. Clear policies should affirm that we are an integral part of society, entitled to the same rights. Raising awareness through campaigns, dialogue, and positive examples is crucial, but so is creating real opportunities for participation, where our voices at community and national levels are heard and valued.
Rani Chowdhury, Brand Ambassador, Bitopi Group (CKDL)
As a member of the Hijra community, I often feel excluded from political decision-making. Lack of legal recognition and minimal attention to our issues in political agendas limit our inclusion. Many parties are apathetic to our concerns. We want our voices heard by politicians and our issues included into their manifestos. We want them to recognise that that our lives and rights are part of the nation's future.
Strong legal frameworks and opportunities for community representation are essential so we can participate fully and speak for ourselves in shaping our lives and society.
Mst Anwara Islam Rani, President, Naye Odhikar Tritio Lingo Unnayan Sangstha
As a Hijra voter, I often face exclusion from the voter list and harassment at polling stations. Discrimination, intimidation and lack of legal awareness among election officials make the act of voting risky and discouraging.
Social prejudices further undermine our confidence to participate. We want a voting environment free from fear or humiliation. Strong legal protections and monitoring must be in place to address any misconduct immediately.
Election officials should receive gender-sensitivity and inclusion training to treat us with respect. Creating safe, supportive polling spaces—and, if needed, separate lines—will allow us to exercise our right to vote with pride and confidence.
Ms Rakhi Sheikh, President, Shopnojoyee Foundation
The Hijra community has unique needs that are frequently overlooked. Even when policies exist, there is little clear guidance or effective coordination for implementation.
We want our lived experiences, needs, and aspirations reflected in policymaking so that policies become truly inclusive.
If that is not possible within existing frameworks, separate, targeted policies for our community should be developed. Implementation must be accountable, coordinated across ministries, and involve our representatives in planning discussions—our voices and experiences are the most reliable guide for meaningful action.
Ms Ava Muskan Tithi
Entrepreneur
In the 2023 Bangladesh census, the official count of Hijra population dropped from 12,629 to just 8,000. This significant discrepancy highlights gaps in data collection, transparency, and classification, influenced by social stigma and faulty census methodology.
We want data about our community to be gathered accurately and respectfully. Properly disaggregated information will reflect our real situation and guide effective policy.
To ensure trust and participation in future censuses, community leaders should be involved in the process, and field enumerators must receive gender-sensitivity and inclusion training to recognise and respect our identities.
Ms Kazol, Hijra Guru
On social media, Hijra individuals are frequently targeted with misinformation, myths and misleading content, often amplified for engagement or viewership. This widespread confusion threatens our social recognition, safety and dignity. We want society to understand our rights and accept us as an integral part of the community.
Social media platforms must take responsibility by monitoring and removing harmful or misleading content targetting us. Additionally, digital literacy programmes can empower marginalised groups like ours to identify false information and protect ourselves online, ensuring our safety in the digital space.
Ms Tonu Hijra, President, Setu Bandhan Kollayan Shongho
When I visit a hospital, I am often treated as if I do not belong—just because of my gender identity. The shame and humiliation are constant. Forms still recognise only "male" and "female"—where do I fit? Sometimes staff call me by the wrong name or gender, and it feels like losing my identity.
Many in our community still struggle to get national ID cards, making it hard for us to access basic services. We also fear what will happen after 2029 when Global Fund support ends—who will ensure HIV and STI services then? Without recognition, respect and access to healthcare, our future feels uncertain and frightening.
Ms Trisna, President, Naba Diganata
Many Hijra individuals become separated from their families due to their gender identity, leaving them without a secure home. Landlords often refuse to rent to us or treat us unfairly once they learn about our identity, forcing many to live in temporary or unsafe places. In old age, when income and physical strength decline, many are left homeless with no permanent shelter.
To ensure dignity, we need dedicated housing quotas in government shelter and housing schemes, along with safe, affordable community housing supported by NGOs. Strong enforcement against rental discrimination and special shelters for elderly Hijra individuals can help us live securely and independently.
Ms Shima Akther, Junior Safety supervisor, Denim Expert LTD
The government's decision to offer a 5–10% tax rebate for employing Hijra individuals is a positive step, and we appreciate the intention. But in reality, we rarely see its benefits. There is little monitoring, no follow-up, and no accountability. On paper, the opportunity exists, but in our lives, it is absent.
Initiatives with weak execution cannot bring meaningful change. Besides, we need inclusive economic programmes that ensure sustainable livelihoods. We do not want sympathy; we want opportunity—to work, to stand on our own feet, and build our future.
Ms Farha Farin, Human Right Activist
Although mental healthcare is supposed to be open to everyone, my experience says otherwise. The moment I disclose my Hijra identity, many service providers treat me like I do not belong—like I am from another world. This stigma creates fear and stops many of us from seeking help. Some professionals still lack gender sensitivity and understanding, leaving our emotions and lived realities unheard.
For many in my community, accessing mental healthcare feels like a battle, and sadly, some have turned to suicide. We need safe and respectful mental health support, with trained professionals who understand us and treat us with dignity and compassion.
Ms Tamanna Moni, Member of Prantoj Foundation
Widespread superstition and discrimination continue to isolate us from social, economic and civic life. Misconceptions and myths about who we are limit our participation in society and deprive us of dignity. Without legal recognition and inclusive policies, prejudice only grows stronger, making everyday life harder.
We want society to understand us and move beyond harmful beliefs. Awareness campaigns are essential to educate people about our identity, struggles and rights. At the same time, policies must ensure our protection and inclusion. With greater unity and cooperation within our own community, we can build stronger relationships with society and move forward together.
Shirin Akhter, Employee, Akij Group
Despite government initiatives like livelihood training, stipends and social security support from the Ministry of Social Welfare, I still do not see real changes in our lives. The biggest challenge is the lack of proper monitoring and accountability. Programmes are launched, but no one checks whether they truly work or benefit us.
Bureaucratic delays and weak evaluation systems mean our progress remains limited, and the promises made to us often stay on paper. I believe real change requires strong oversight, transparent use of funds, and regular assessment. We deserve to know where the money goes and whether it is improving our future.
