Don’t be so quick to judge hijras for begging
We should not question why these individuals beg, but question why society has failed to provide them with equitable opportunities, support and respect
In the vibrant tapestry of Bangladesh, the gender diverse community stands as a group often shrouded in layers of misunderstanding and societal marginalisation. One persistent stereotype that warrants thoughtful examination is the notion that hijra and transgender individuals are more likely to engage in begging.
However, a closer look at the circumstances they face within the unique context of Bangladesh reveals a far more intricate story.
The heart of the matter lies in the intersection of discrimination and limited opportunities. Transgender and hijra individuals in Bangladesh encounter societal biases from an early age, resulting in exclusion from educational institutions and formal employment sectors.
Denied access to quality education, they are systematically pushed to the fringes of society, rendering them with limited skill sets and meagre prospects for stable jobs. The scarce job opportunities that do arise often come laden with bias and unequal pay, perpetuating their economic vulnerability.
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Gender diverse individuals face additional hurdles in the form of healthcare disparities. Gender-affirming medical care remains a rarity, and the lack of understanding and sensitivity from healthcare providers further exacerbates the situation.
This lack of access to proper healthcare not only affects their physical well-being but also takes a toll on their mental health. When compounded by societal discrimination and economic challenges, the path towards begging as a means of survival becomes less surprising.
Family dynamics also play a crucial role in the experiences of hijra and transgender individuals in Bangladesh. In a society that traditionally places immense value on conformity and heteronormativity, many find themselves estranged from their families due to their gender identity.
Family rejection leads to a lack of support networks, pushing them onto the streets, where they must navigate a harsh world with limited resources. It's a scenario born not out of choice but of circumstance.
Legal recognition alone is insufficient to uplift the gender diverse community. While Bangladesh officially recognises them as a third gender, the absence of comprehensive legal protections leaves them vulnerable to discrimination, harassment and violence.
Mere recognition without a robust framework of rights and protections only scratches the surface of the issues they face daily.
Begging, in this context, becomes a response to a web of adversities, rather than an inherent inclination. It is a response to a society that has systematically denied them equitable access to education, employment, healthcare and legal protections. Begging becomes a survival strategy in the face of systemic discrimination, family rejection and a lack of economic opportunities.
Take the case of Rina, a 30-year-old transgender woman living in Dhaka. Rina faced widespread discrimination in the job market, leading to constant unemployment. Her family has disowned her, and with limited access to education and no other source of income, begging became her only means of survival.
Rina's story highlights the systemic economic challenges that transgender individuals face, pushing them towards begging as a way to sustain themselves.
The multifaceted nature of the issue demands a holistic approach. To alter the trajectory of hijra and transgender individuals being pushed into begging, society must actively engage in dismantling stereotypes and prejudices.
This begins with creating educational campaigns that foster empathy and awareness about the unique challenges they face. Schools and communities have a role to play in breaking down barriers of misunderstanding and cultivating an environment of acceptance.
But the onus doesn't solely rest solely on society. Government bodies, NGOs and civil society organisations must collaborate to create pathways to education and vocational training that are inclusive and empowering.
Accessible healthcare services tailored to their needs should be prioritised, ensuring they receive the care they deserve without facing additional discrimination.
As the sun sets over the bustling streets of Bangladesh, it's essential to remember that the image of hijra and transgender individuals as beggars is a narrative steeped in oversimplification. It's a narrative that diverts attention away from the structural inequalities and societal biases that drive them toward begging.
The goal should not be to question why these individuals beg but to question why society has failed to provide them with equitable opportunities, support and respect.
In reframing the conversation, we can cultivate a society where the gender diverse community is empowered to break free from the cycle of begging. A society that offers them the same opportunities, access and dignity as anyone else.
It's a complex journey, but one that, with collective effort, empathy, and policy changes, can lead to a brighter future for hijra and transgender individuals in Bangladesh – a future where begging is not their only option.
Md Ariful Islam is a graduate of the Department of Anthropology, University of Dhaka and a researcher on gender equality and human rights.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and views of The Business Standard.
