In a country where LGBTQI voices are often silenced, Qasim Iqbal, a leading activist, has courageously spoken out about the realities faced by queer people in Pakistan. In this short but powerful video interview with PinkNews on Jun 4, 2020, he explains how laws, social stigma, and religious hate combine to make life unsafe for LGBTQI individuals.
📢 Video Highlights
- Criminalisation: Homosexuality remains illegal under Section 377 of the Penal Code, a colonial-era law still used to harass and intimidate.
- Abuse of Power: Police and authorities exploit these laws to blackmail and extort LGBTQI people.
- Social Stigma: Religious and cultural narratives fuel hate, forcing many into secrecy and isolation.
- Resilience: Despite these challenges, activists like Qasim Iqbal continue to fight for dignity, equality, and recognition of LGBTQI rights as human rights.
Qasim’s voice represents the lived reality of thousands of LGBTQI Pakistanis who cannot speak openly. His testimony is a reminder that our struggle is not invisible and that international solidarity is essential.
You can watch the full interview here:
LGBT rights in Pakistan explained by activist Qasim Iqbal (YouTube)
📚 References & Further Reading
- LGBT rights in Pakistan explained by activist Qasim Iqbal (YouTube)
- https://x.com/pinknews/status/1269814402418569216
- https://www.thepinknews.com/2020/06/04/qasim-iqbal-pakistan-lgbt-islam-muslim-pride-for-all-pinknews-kaleidoscope-trust/
Qasim Iqbal’s message is clear: LGBTQI rights are human rights. His courage in speaking out should inspire us all to continue raising awareness, challenging hate, and demanding equality in Pakistan and beyond.
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