In-depth research on community needs is essential for evidence-based policy advocacy. This research is part of IRI’s work to promote the inclusion of historically marginalized communities in political discussion and policy decision-making in Bangladesh. 1 This report documents, in their own words, the challenges facing LGBTI people in Bangladesh, challenges that include institutional discrimination, bullying, alienation, depression and physical and sexual violence.
In order to understand the daily lives of sexual and gender minorities in Bangladesh, the International Republican Institute (IRI) conducted eight focus group discussions (FGDs) and an online survey with Bangladesh’s LGBTI (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex) community.