In Bangladesh, transgender individuals—particularly those from hijra communities—remain among the most marginalized and vulnerable populations. Despite formal recognition of hijras as a “third gender,” systemic discrimination persists across education, employment, healthcare, and housing. Social stigma, family rejection, and economic exclusion continue to force many into precarious living conditions, exposing them to heightened risks of violence, exploitation, and abuse.
According to JMBF documentation, the situation has worsened in recent years. In 2025, transgender individuals were the most frequently targeted group, with 86 reported incidents affecting 220 victims, representing more than half of all documented cases. In 2024, there were 43 incidents affecting 269 transgender individuals, while in 2023, 34 incidents impacted 191 individuals. These figures highlight an alarming and escalating pattern of violence and human rights violations.
Transgender human rights defenders and activists in Bangladesh also face serious risks, including threats, harassment, and restrictions on freedom of expression. The shrinking civic space and lack of effective legal protections further intensify their vulnerability.
JMBF calls on the Government of Bangladesh to:Ensure full legal recognition of gender identity based on self-identification.
Enact and enforce comprehensive anti-discrimination legislation explicitly protecting transgender and gender-diverse persons.
Guarantee equal access to education, healthcare, employment, and social protection without stigma or barriers.
Protect transgender human rights defenders and uphold their rights to freedom of expression, association, and peaceful assembly.
Address violence and impunity through effective investigations, accountability measures, and victim-centered support mechanisms.
JMBF also calls on the international community, including the European Union and United Nations bodies, to strengthen engagement with Bangladesh to ensure that transgender rights are upheld as fundamental human rights.
On this day, we reaffirm that visibility must lead to dignity, equality, and justice. Transgender people in Bangladesh deserve not only recognition, but full inclusion, safety, and respect.
JMBF remains committed to amplifying transgender voices, advocating for systemic change, and building a future where no one is left behind because of who they are.
Visibility is not enough—rights, protection, and justice must follow.
****************************************************************** Copyright © JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF), 2025. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means of electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise without mentioning the name of JMBF. JMBF is an independent, non-profit, nonpartisan human rights organization registered in France with registration number W931027714 under the 1901 Association Law, dedicated to defending human rights, promoting social justice, and empowering communities in Bangladesh and beyond.
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