The Hijra community in Bangladesh, a marginalized group often facing discrimination and social exclusion, has been gradually gaining legal recognition and visibility in recent years. According to statistics, since 2013, Bangladesh has officially allowed individuals to identify as a “third gender,” marking a crucial step towards acknowledging the rights and existence of the Hijra community. However, despite these advancements, significant challenges persist. A table can further illustrate the status of the Hijra community in Bangladesh:
| Aspect | Statistics |
|---|---|
| Legal Recognition | Officially recognized as “third gender” since 2013 |
| Representation in Politics | Several Hijra individuals entered Bangladeshi politics, with one elected mayor of a rural town in 2021 |
| Socioeconomic Status | Hijras are disproportionately affected by poverty and unemployment |
| Discrimination | Hijras are much more likely to be victims of violent crime and face discrimination in employment |
| Access to Rights | Property and marriage rights remain elusive for many Hijra individuals |
Situated near Mymensingh, a city in northern Bangladesh, along the banks of the Brahmaputra river, the inaugural mosque has emerged as a beacon of hope and progress for the marginalized Hijra community. Erected on land generously donated by the Government, it stands as a symbol of growing legal recognition for the community in a country […]
The term “Hijra” in South Asia pertains to transgender individuals, The initiative mentioned by DeSantis, aimed at advancing the civil rights of LGBT or Hizra individuals in Bangladesh
