Striving to survive: human security of the Hijra of Pakistan

This research paper looks at the human security of the hijra of Pakistan and how insecurities are overcome. Hijra are persons who are born intersex and males, experiencing gender dysphoria, who mostly live and act as women. In Pakistan hijra are a marginalized group and are commonly associated with dancing, prostitution and begging. This research looks at three dimensions of human security in the lives of hijra: community, economic and personal security. Based on fieldwork conducted in Pakistan the main factors influencing human security of the hijra are age, location, family wealth and gender. One of the main features of the lives of many hijra is membership in a hijra community, which this research shows can have both positive and negative effects on human security. This research paper also looks at measures aimed at improving the lives of hijra, from beyond the hijra community, particularly the decisions of the Supreme Court of Pakistan.