Unveiling Identities: A Qualitative Exploration of the 2SLGBTQ+ Community in Bangladesh


Faria Sultana, American International University-Bangladesh; Mahir Abrar, University of Prince Edward Island

In recent years, the discourse surrounding sexual orientation and gender identity has gained momentum globally. This qualitative literature review delves into the lived experiences, challenges, and resilience of the 2SLGBTQ+ (Two-Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning, and others) community in Bangladesh. Through a comprehensive exploration of existing academic works and grey literature, this research aims to contribute nuanced insights into the multifaceted dimensions of 2SLGBTQ+ identities within the cultural context of Bangladesh. The study employs a qualitative approach to synthesise and analyse diverse scholarly perspectives, shedding light on the historical, social, and legal frameworks that shape the experiences of the 2SLGBTQ+ individuals in Bangladesh. By examining local and international literature, we seek to identify recurring themes, challenges, and emerging narratives that characterise the intersectionality of identities within this community. Key areas of focus include social acceptance, legal rights, healthcare access, and the role of cultural and religious factors in influencing the experiences of 2SLGBTQ+ individuals, in addition to that the paper would like to accentuate the socio-economic challenges of the community in Bangladesh. Additionally, the review investigates the evolving nature of activism and support networks that have emerged to address the unique challenges faced by this community. Ibtisam Ahmed, Doctoral Researcher at the University of Nottingham, writes “ Colonialism and Western identity politics outlawed queerness in the first place and the early attempts at rights failed largely due to its association with globalisation ”. Homosexuality is criminalised in Bangladesh under Section 377 of the penal code, which bans “unnatural sexual activity”. This refers to anal and oral sex and would theoretically include heterosexual acts. The law was created during the British rule of India and has never been used in independent Bangladesh. It is one of many acts criminalising and stigmatising homosexuality introduced during colonial rule. Opposition to this law often includes a decolonization perspective In the early 2010s, the 2SLGBTQ+ community published a magazine, Roopbaan, and held the first pride rally in Dhaka. It was able to carve out a niche space for itself. These activities were driven underground after the editor and publisher of the magazine, Xulhaaz Mannan, was assassinated by Ansar al-Islam, an Al-Qaida affiliate. The murder has a chilling effect on the community, reducing visibility and discouraging support for the community. Bangladesh is a Muslim-majority country, with about 90 per cent of the population being Muslim. It is a conservative country where non-heteronormative relationships are generally not accepted. Events at universities featuring speakers of the 2SLGBTQ+ community have been targeted for protests and forced to close. Bangladesh government rejected a recommendation at a United Nations review to protect the 2SLGBTQ+ community, saying “sexual orientation is not an issue in Bangladesh”. In 2024, a faculty member at a private university was released from their contract after attacking a textbook for grade seven for featuring a story transwoman transitioning. This led to street protests by Islamists demanding his reinstatement. The study will examine how educational institutions in Bangladesh have become a battleground between progressive and conservative forces. The study will examine the role of sociologists and how they can contribute to the discourse. Many activists and bloggers have fled Bangladesh in the last few years, seeking asylum in Europe and North America. There does not seem to be any effort to revive the grassroots movements of the early 2010s. This resilient community is not ready to give up the progress made so far. Bangladesh recently had its first transgender news anchor and diplomat. Both were received positively by their colleague. The 2SLGBTQ+ community has advanced their case through incremental advancement and small victories. While Western allies can advocate for them and provide some protection, the real change must come from within Bangladesh and would require significant societal changes.

This paper will be presented at the following session: