Same-sex conduct is criminalised in Pakistan under section 377 of the Pakistan Penal Code, carrying potential penalties of up to life imprisonment plus fine. Social attitudes towards LGBTQ+ individuals are predominantly hostile, and state protection is generally unavailable. LGBTQ+ Pakistanis face violence from family members, community vigilantes, and in some cases state actors including police.
Expert witnesses assess individual appellant profiles against current country conditions and the HJ (Iran) [2010] UKSC 31 standard on sexuality and the well-founded fear test under the Refugee Convention 1951. Reports address criminalisation frameworks, enforcement practice, family and community violence, and the practical impossibility of living openly as an LGBTQ+ person in Pakistan without real risk of harm.
Khawaja Sira (hijra and transgender) individuals occupy a distinct legal and social position in Pakistan. Following a 2009 Supreme Court ruling, Khawaja Sira individuals have some formal legal recognition, but face severe discrimination, violence, and social exclusion in practice. Expert witnesses addressing transgender asylum claims from Pakistan analyse both the formal legal position and the practical reality of life for Khawaja Sira individuals across different regions of Pakistan.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the legal position for LGBTQ+ people in Pakistan?
Same-sex conduct is criminalised under s377 of the Pakistan Penal Code, carrying potential penalties of up to life imprisonment plus fine. Social attitudes towards LGBTQ+ individuals are predominantly hostile and state protection is generally unavailable. Expert witnesses assess the individual appellant's profile against current country conditions and the HJ (Iran) [2010] standard.
What is the Khawaja Sira community in Pakistan?
Khawaja Sira (hijra and transgender) individuals have some formal legal recognition in Pakistan following a 2009 Supreme Court ruling, but face severe discrimination, violence, and social exclusion. Expert witnesses addressing transgender asylum claims from Pakistan analyse both the formal legal position and the practical reality of life for Khawaja Sira individuals in Pakistan.