LGBTQ+ Rights in Bangladesh

Why Speaking About LGBTQ+ Rights in Bangladesh Is Not Safe

Speaking publicly about homosexuality or LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer) rights in Bangladesh is still extremely risky. Although the constitution promises equal rights for all citizens, the reality is that anyone who speaks about homosexuality, sexual identity, or gender diversity faces social, religious, and sometimes even state-level persecution.

Legal Barriers

Section 377 of the Penal Code is still in effect in Bangladesh, which criminalizes “unnatural sexual acts.” This law is primarily used against homosexuals and is considered discriminatory. As a result, those who try to raise awareness about LGBTQ+ rights face not only legal risks but also fear of social backlash.

Same-sex conduct is criminalized under Section 377 of the Penal Code (Act XLV of 1860) with penalties from ten years to life in prison. There are no legal protections against discrimination on the basis of sexuality, and LGBTI+ organizations face obstacles to operating in the country. LGBTI+ people and advocates have reported increased threats of violence. [ Ref 01, Ref 02 ]

Due to social taboos and societal pressure to conform to heterosexual, cultural and religious norms, including marriage and having children, the majority of LGBTI+ people in Bangladesh are reported to choose to keep their sexual orientation a private matter to avoid discrimination, social exclusion and hostility from their families and wider society. Further, according to a report by the International Republican Institute, “The intersection of religiosity and family honor forced many participants [in their focus groups] into a tenuous agreement with their families to hide their sexual or gender orientation in public.” [ Ref ]

Conversion practices – reportedly performed by individuals, family members, medical professionals, and religious and community leaders – are widespread. [ Ref 01, Ref 02 ]

Religious and Social Reaction

Religious conservatism and social traditionalism in Bangladesh have created a strong stance against homosexuality. In Islam, homosexuality is considered forbidden, and many religious leaders openly spread hatred against LGBTQ+ individuals. In 2016, two activists working on LGBTQ+ rights—Julhas Mannan and Mahbub Tonoy—were hacked to death in their own home in Dhaka. This brutal killing sent a terrifying message: the consequences of speaking about homosexuality in Bangladesh can be deadly.

In Islam, homosexuality or LGBTQ+ related matters are generally considered forbidden and sinful. The Islamic holy book, the Quran, references the story of the people of Lot, condemning male-male sexual relations as “unnatural” and “illicit.” Surah A’raf, Surah Hud, and Surah Ankabut mention that divine punishment befell the people of Lot due to their homosexual behavior. Hadiths also strictly prohibit sexual relations between men, and in some cases mention punishments, including death. According to Islamic law or Shariah, homosexuality is considered “haram” or forbidden, and many Muslim countries have enacted laws against LGBTQ+ individuals based on this. In some Shariah-based countries (such as Saudi Arabia and Iran), the death penalty is enforced for homosexuality.

However, among modern Islamic scholars, there is some debate – some call for reconsideration of the issue in light of human rights, but mainstream religious interpretations remain strongly opposed to homosexuality. As a result, LGBTQ+ topics remain deeply sensitive and religiously controversial in Islamic societies. In Bangladeshi society, it is also viewed as a grave sin, and Islamic speakers often call for the killing of homosexuals. If any political leader speaks in favor of LGBTQ+ rights, their popularity drops significantly and protests are organized against them.

Online Threats and Media

Those who write online about LGBTQ+ rights often face trolling, threats, and personal attacks. Their photos and personal information are sometimes spread on social media with calls for “punishment.” As a result, rights activists are harassed in various ways and become targets of attacks. One blogger, who wrote under the name “Rainbow Dhaka,” was forced to leave their family and flee the country after their identity was exposed. They wrote, “I only spoke about the freedom to love, but I was treated as if I committed treason.”

State Silence

Although the Bangladeshi government faces questions from the international community regarding LGBTQ+ rights, it has not taken any positive stance internally. In fact, government officials often label LGBTQ+ issues as “immoral activities.” In 2014, during the United Nations Universal Periodic Review, Bangladesh was advised to protect LGBTQ+ rights, but the government rejected it, citing “conflict with the constitution and religious values.” The state and society still consider homosexuality a perversion.

Lack of Education and Awareness

LGBTQ+ topics are almost absent from textbooks, media, and public discourse in Bangladesh. As a result, most people are unaware of the issue, and ignorance breeds fear and hatred. A study found that 75% of young people do not know the meaning of LGBTQ+, and 85% believe it is a “disease” or “sin.” These misconceptions create a culture of hatred, making life even more unsafe for LGBTQ+ individuals.

International Comparison

In 2018, India’s Supreme Court repealed Section 377, legalizing homosexuality. Nepal, Bhutan, and Sri Lanka have also taken positive steps regarding LGBTQ+ rights. But Bangladesh has yet to follow that path. In other countries in the region, LGBTQ+ individuals receive legal protection, social recognition, and access to healthcare, whereas in Bangladesh they are still forced to live as “invisible” citizens. If someone’s identity is revealed, they are socially ostracized and their life is put at risk.

Ray of Hope

However, some brave individuals, organizations, and online platforms continue to work on LGBTQ+ rights. Organizations like “Roopbaan,” “Boys of Bangladesh,” and “Manusher Jonno Foundation” are trying to raise awareness. Many young people are now speaking about homosexuality on social media, though they do so anonymously or in secret. This courage is a hopeful sign for the future.

Conclusion

Speaking about LGBTQ+ rights in Bangladesh is still not safe, because legal structures, religious conservatism, social traditionalism, and state silence have made the topic “dangerous.” Those who speak out are not just fighting for freedom of expression – they are risking their lives. To build a democratic, humane, and modern society, LGBTQ+ rights must be recognized. Love, identity, and freedom—these are not crimes. Rather, they are fundamental pillars of human rights. To bring about this change in Bangladesh, we need education, awareness, legal reform, and social tolerance. Until these are implemented, speaking about LGBTQ+ rights will not be safe.