Ali Raza Khan, a dedicated peace-builder from Multan, Pakistan, has been working since 2015 to combat the sectarian violence and discrimination that has plagued his country for decades. Drawing from his personal experiences as a member of the Shia Muslim community, Ali has channeled his struggles into a powerful force for change, training thousands of young people in peace-building and preventing violent extremism.
Ali’s journey began with a deep understanding of the discrimination faced by his community. He, like many other Shia Muslims, has endured inappropriate and hateful questions about his religious practices. These questions, often based on false and harmful stereotypes, are a stark reminder of the deep-seated prejudice that exists in some parts of society.
This prejudice, fueled by extremist rhetoric and hate speech, has often escalated into deadly violence. According to various human rights organizations and reports:
Since 2001, more than 2,600 Shia Muslims have been killed in violent attacks in Pakistan. A report from the Center for Research and Security Studies (CRSS) notes that between 2013 and 2018, 815 of the 2,099 people murdered for their religion were Shia.
The violence has been both targeted and widespread. In 2013, a series of bombings in Quetta, the capital of Balochistan, killed over 250 Shia Muslims in just a few months. A single suicide bombing at a Shia mosque in Peshawar in 2022 killed at least 61 people.
Blasphemy accusations are a tool of discrimination. In 2020, over 40 blasphemy cases were registered against Shias following the month of Muharram, with the youngest accused being a three-year-old child. A report also notes that 70% of all blasphemy cases in 2020 were against Shia Muslims.
Shia leaders and educated individuals have been systematically targeted. The violence has included what is described as “intellecticide,” a systematic campaign of murder against Shia doctors, engineers, professors, and other professionals, to remove them from positions of authority.
Despite these challenges, Ali Raza Khan has worked tirelessly to build bridges between communities. Through his work with organizations such as Chanan Development Association, Peace Direct, and others, he has trained thousands of young people on the principles of peace-building and dialogue. His work is a testament to the power of one person’s commitment to creating a more tolerant and peaceful society, even in the face of immense adversity.
Quel immense honneur ce fut de me tenir sur la scène de la Basel Pride 2025, le 28 juin, organisée par Baselticktbunt. Ce fut une journée remplie de célébration vibrante, mais aussi une plateforme cruciale pour des discussions profondes sur les droits humains et la lutte continue pour une véritable égalité. J’ai partagé la scène avec des personnalités remarquables : Conradin Cramer, Président du Conseil d’État et chef du Département présidentiel de Bâle-Ville ; Edibe Gölgeli, Membre du Grand Conseil de Bâle-Ville ; et Frank Lorenz, Pasteur et directeur de l’Église Ouverte Elisabethen.
L’introduction de l’hôte m’a sincèrement touché : “Veuillez accueillir notre prochain orateur, Ali Raza Khan. Ali est un militant des droits humains originaire de Multan, Pakistan, avec un accent fort sur la santé et les droits sexuels et reproductifs, la prévention du VIH et la paix. Il est le fondateur de PridePakistan.org et a travaillé avec de nombreuses organisations pour défendre les droits des communautés marginalisées. C’est un militant primé, un écrivain et une voix pour d’innombrables personnes. Il est également un demandeur d’asile gay et séropositif ici en Suisse, et il est là aujourd’hui pour partager son histoire. Veuillez accueillir chaleureusement et respectueusement Ali Raza Khan.”
Ce fut un moment d’immense fierté, mais aussi, comme je l’ai avoué dans mon discours, terrifiant. Les mots que j’ai partagés ce jour-là viennent d’une expérience personnelle profonde, un cheminement de la peur à une détermination féroce à défendre la justice.
Bonjour Bâle ! Joyeuse Pride !
J’ai commencé par remercier les organisateurs pour cette plateforme vitale, soulignant que si c’était un honneur, c’était aussi terrifiant. Mon identité, mise à nu sur cette scène, est complexe : un homme gay du Pakistan, un activiste, séropositif et vivant avec un syndrome de stress post-traumatique. Et surtout, je suis un demandeur d’asile dont la demande a été rejetée par le Secrétariat d’État aux migrations (SEM) suisse, qui estime qu’il est sûr pour moi de retourner au Pakistan – une conviction que je sais fausse.
Mon objectif était de faire comprendre pourquoi j’ai quitté ma maison, ce que j’espérais et la choquante réalité que j’ai rencontrée en tant que demandeur d’asile.
De l’ombre à la scène : Ma vie au Pakistan
Mon histoire commence à Multan, au Pakistan – la “ville des saints”, mais pour les personnes queer comme moi, une ville de vies cachées et de secrets. Pendant plus d’une décennie, je me suis consacré à l’activisme : construction de la paix, lutte contre la violence basée sur le genre et défense inlassable de la santé sexuelle et des droits de la communauté LGBTQI+. J’ai fondé Pride Pakistan et travaillé avec des organisations sur la prévention du VIH, une réalité qui fait partie de mon propre parcours. Mon CV est peut-être long et rempli de réalisations, mais il cache une vérité plus crue : une double vie. J’étais un activiste public, mais un homme gay caché. Au Pakistan, embrasser ouvertement mon identité était une impossibilité dangereuse.
Le danger n’était pas abstrait. Je me souviens d’une descente de police effrayante lors d’un rassemblement privé de la communauté gay, où nous avons été torturés, filmés et relâchés avec un avertissement glaçant. Un autre activiste, moins chanceux, a disparu pendant trois semaines après avoir été enlevé par une agence de sécurité armée, revenant brisé.
Mon propre activisme a entraîné des menaces constantes. Être gay, séropositif et oser signaler des violations des droits humains à l’ONU et à d’autres organismes internationaux, a conduit à des appels anonymes et à des tentatives de piratage persistantes. Ma vie était remplie d’abus : rapports sexuels forcés sous la menace de révélation, chantage et abus émotionnels et physiques de la part d’un partenaire, sans possibilité de signaler aux autorités en tant qu’homme gay. Ma famille, dans une tentative malavisée de me “réparer”, m’a forcé à un mariage traumatisant qui s’est terminé rapidement.
Je vivais avec un syndrome de stress post-traumatique bien avant de savoir ce que c’était, croyant que la panique constante et la menace d’arrestation ou de mort faisaient simplement “partie du travail”. Mais j’étais brisé. J’ai fui le Pakistan non seulement pour sauver ma vie, mais pour sauver mon âme.
L’illusion du refuge : Mon expérience d’asile
Je suis venu en Suisse en quête de refuge, un mot qui promet abri et protection. Je croyais en la promesse des droits humains, en particulier pour les personnes LGBTQI+ vulnérables. Ce que j’ai trouvé fut un autre type de traumatisme au sein du processus d’asile.
Ma première “maison” à Bâle était un bunker souterrain – sans fenêtres, sans lumière du soleil et sans sécurité incendie adéquate. Logé avec des dizaines d’autres hommes, hétérosexuels et parfois violents, j’ai été témoin de bagarres et de sang. Les conditions insalubres et le manque de dignité humaine fondamentale étaient choquants. Ceci, ai-je expliqué, est la réalité des demandeurs d’asile masculins célibataires, quelle que soit leur orientation sexuelle. Votre humanité vous est arrachée à la porte. J’ai vu d’autres hommes gays dans des camps fédéraux, fuyant la persécution comme moi, entassés à 20 dans une pièce sans espace personnel.
La guerre psychologique du système est insidieuse. Les transferts constants et inexpliqués d’un camp à l’autre ne sont pas de la simple bureaucratie ; ce sont des outils délibérés pour briser les esprits et obliger les gens à abandonner. Ma santé physique et psychologique était secondaire. Même avec un diagnostic de syndrome de stress post-traumatique complexe, obtenir des rendez-vous pour une thérapie est une bataille constante et épuisante. Accéder à mes médicaments vitaux contre le VIH était un combat rempli de retards et de peur. J’ai vu des femmes saigner et de jeunes garçons blessés ne recevoir rien de plus qu’un chiffon propre.
L’aspect le plus cruel est peut-être le processus juridique. Le représentant légal fourni par le SEM est un fantôme, un visage différent à chaque fois, un étranger le jour de votre entretien de vie ou de mort, puis parti. Et l’entretien lui-même est un abus. La transcription officielle de mon entretien, l’histoire de ma vie et de mon traumatisme, a été modifiée. Des déclarations que j’ai faites ont été changées, des choses ajoutées que je n’ai jamais dites, sans aucun moyen de le prouver.
Le SEM a affirmé que le Pakistan est sûr pour les personnes gays, faisant référence à une organisation qui a été fermée il y a des années, dont le personnel a fui et a trouvé protection ailleurs. Ils ont affirmé que parce que j’étais venu en avion, je n’étais pas en assez grand danger – peut-être voulaient-ils que je sois arrêté à l’aéroport, ou que je risque de me noyer en Méditerranée, pour que ma demande soit valide. Concernant mon SSPT, ils ont affirmé que ce n’était pas “assez de traumatisme”, suggérant que je pourrais me faire soigner au Pakistan. Mais le “traitement” là-bas vise à “guérir” mon identité, pas à prendre soin de ma personne, reflétant les tentatives de “cure” religieuse de ma famille.
L’asile ici n’est pas simplement défaillant ; il est activement hostile. Il demande : “Êtes-vous assez gay ? Êtes-vous assez traumatisé ? Avez-vous été suffisamment torturé ?” pour mériter protection. J’ai vu d’innombrables personnes LGBTQI+ recevoir des décisions négatives, être renvoyées dans des pays où elles sont confrontées à l’arrestation, à la violence ou à la mort. Le système d’immigration suisse ne considère pas l’arrestation pour homosexualité comme suffisamment préjudiciable.
L’espoir est en vous
Mais je ne suis pas venu pour dire qu’il n’y a pas d’espoir. Il y en a. Je l’ai ressenti de la part des bénévoles dévoués de Queer Amnesty, de Christian Waffenschmidt et Miroslav Ostojic, qui m’ont aidé à comprendre mes droits et l’importance de mon entretien. J’ai vu cet espoir dans le travail d’autres organisations caritatives soutenant les réfugiés.
L’espoir, ai-je déclaré, n’est pas dans le système, mais en nous : les bénévoles et les demandeurs d’asile eux-mêmes.
À la Basel Pride, nous célébrons la liberté, mais nous devons aussi nous battre pour elle. J’ai exhorté le public à voir au-delà de l’image polie de la Suisse. Questionnez le récit officiel. Demandez à vos représentants pourquoi le SEM opère avec une telle impunité, modifiant les transcriptions, ignorant les preuves, détruisant des vies et mentant dans les documents officiels.
J’ai imploré les gens de faire du bénévolat. Inscrivez-vous au programme de mentorat de Queer Amnesty. Votre empathie, votre temps et votre compréhension de ce pays sont une bouée de sauvetage pour les réfugiés queer qui sont perdus, effrayés et seuls. Vous pouvez fournir le soutien par les pairs dont des personnes comme moi ont désespérément besoin.
Enfin, j’ai souligné que votre Pride est politique. La Pride a commencé comme une émeute, une protestation contre un système qui cherchait à nous maintenir dans l’ombre. Ce combat est loin d’être terminé. Il se déroule en ce moment même, dans les bunkers d’asile souterrains, dans les salles d’entretien du SEM et dans le cœur de ceux à qui on dit que leur traumatisme n’est pas “suffisant”.
Mon histoire, ai-je souligné, n’est pas unique. D’innombrables autres sont ici, vos voisins vivant dans les camps d’asile et de réfugiés de Bâle, même si vous ne les voyez pas.
La véritable Pride n’est pas seulement une célébration ; c’est un combat. C’est le combat pour la personne dans le bunker ce soir qui a peur de dormir. C’est le combat pour la lesbienne d’Ouganda qui a reçu une décision négative, la personne trans du Pérou qui est expulsée, et l’homme gay du Pakistan, comme moi, qui poursuit une bataille juridique.
Il n’y a pas de fierté pour quiconque tant qu’il n’y a pas de liberté, de dignité et de sécurité pour tous.
Merci de votre attention, et merci de faire partie de ce combat vital. Vous pouvez en savoir plus sur mes expériences et mon plaidoyer ici sur mon site web, AliRazaKhan.com.
What an incredible honor it was to stand on the stage at Basel Pride 2025 on June 28th, organized by Baselticktbunt. It was a day filled with vibrant celebration, but also a crucial platform for profound discussions on human rights and the ongoing fight for true equality. I shared the stage with remarkable individuals: Conradin Cramer, President of the Government and Head of the Presidential Department Basel-City; Edibe Gölgeli, Member of the Basel-Stadt Grand Council; and Frank Lorenz, Pastor and head of the Elisabethen Open Church.
The introduction by the host truly touched me: “Please welcome our next speaker, Ali Raza Khan. Ali is a human rights activist from Multan, Pakistan, with a powerful focus on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights, HIV prevention, and peace. He is the founder of PridePakistan.org and has worked with numerous organizations to champion the rights of marginalized communities. He is an award-winning activist, a writer, and a voice for countless people. He is also a gay, HIV-positive asylum seeker here in Switzerland, and he is here today to share his story. Please give a warm and respectful welcome to Ali Raza Khan.”
It was a moment of immense pride, but also, as I confessed in my speech, terrifying. The words I shared that day come from a place of deep personal experience, a journey from fear to a fierce determination to advocate for justice.
Happy Pride!
I began by acknowledging the organizers for this vital platform, emphasizing that while it was an honor, it was also terrifying. My identity, laid bare on that stage, is complex: a gay man from Pakistan, an activist, HIV positive, and living with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. And critically, I am an asylum seeker whose application has been rejected by the Swiss State Secretariat for Migration (SEM), who believe it is safe for me to return to Pakistan – a belief I know to be untrue.
My aim was to shed light on why I left my home, what I hoped for, and the shocking reality I’ve encountered as an asylum seeker.
From Shadows to the Stage: My Life in Pakistan
My story starts in Multan, Pakistan – the “city of saints,” but for queer individuals like me, a city of hidden lives and secrets. For over a decade, I dedicated myself to activism: peace-building, fighting gender-based violence, and tirelessly advocating for the sexual health and rights of the LGBTQI+ community. I founded Pride Pakistan and worked with organizations on HIV prevention, a reality that is part of my own journey. My CV may be long and filled with achievements, but it masks a starker truth: a double life. I was a public activist, but a hidden gay man. In Pakistan, openly embracing my identity was a dangerous impossibility.
The danger was not abstract. I recalled a harrowing police raid on a private gay community gathering, where we were tortured, filmed, and released with a chilling warning. A fellow activist, less fortunate, disappeared for three weeks after being picked up by an armed security agency, returning a broken man.
My own activism led to constant threats. Being gay, HIV positive, and daring to report human rights violations to the UN and other international bodies, led to anonymous calls and persistent hacking attempts. My life was filled with abuse: forced sex under threat of exposure, blackmail, and emotional and physical abuse from a partner, with no avenue for reporting to authorities due as a gay man. My family, in a misguided attempt to “fix” me, forced me into a traumatic marriage that ended quickly.
I was living with PTSD long before I knew what it was, believing constant panic and the threat of arrest or death were just “part of the job.” But I was broken. I fled Pakistan not just to save my life, but to save my soul.
The Illusion of Refuge: My Asylum Experience
I came to Switzerland seeking refuge, a word that promises shelter and protection. I believed in the promise of human rights, particularly for vulnerable LGBTQI+ individuals. What I found was a different kind of trauma within the asylum process.
My first “home” in Basel was an underground bunker – windowless, sunless, and lacking proper fire safety. Housed with dozens of other men, both straight and sometimes violent, I witnessed fights and blood. The unsanitary conditions and lack of basic human dignity were shocking. This, I explained, is the reality for single male asylum seekers, regardless of their sexual orientation. Your humanity is stripped away at the door. I saw other gay men in federal camps, fleeing persecution like me, crammed 20 to a room with no personal space.
The system’s psychological warfare is insidious. Constant, unexplained transfers from one camp to another are not just bureaucracy; they are a deliberate tool to break spirits and compel people to give up. My physical and psychological health were afterthoughts. Even with a diagnosis of complex PTSD, securing therapy appointments is an exhausting battle. Accessing life-saving HIV medication was a fight fraught with delays and fear. I’ve witnessed women bleeding and injured young boys receiving nothing more than a cleaning cloth.
Perhaps the most cruel aspect is the legal process. The legal representative provided by the SEM is a phantom, a different face each time, a stranger on the day of your life-or-death interview, then gone. And the interview itself is an abuse. My official transcript, the story of my life and trauma, was altered. Statements I made were changed, things added that I never said, with no way to prove it.
The Harsh Reality: “Are You Gay Enough? Traumatized Enough?”
My decision: Negative.
The SEM claimed Pakistan is safe for gay people, referencing an organization that was shut down years ago, whose staff fled and found protection elsewhere. They asserted that because I traveled by plane, I wasn’t in enough danger – perhaps they wanted me to be arrested at the airport, or risk drowning in the Mediterranean, for my claim to be valid. On my PTSD, they claimed it wasn’t “enough trauma,” suggesting I could get treatment in Pakistan. But the “treatment” there aims to “cure” my identity, not care for my person, mirroring my family’s attempts at religious “cures.”
Asylum here is not merely broken; it is actively hostile. It asks, “Are you gay enough? Are you traumatized enough? Have you been tortured enough?” to deserve protection. I have seen countless LGBTQI+ individuals receive negative decisions, deported back to countries where they face arrest, violence, or death. The Swiss immigration system does not consider being arrested for being gay harmful enough.
The Hope is in You
But I did not come to say there is no hope. There is. I’ve felt it from the dedicated volunteers at Queer Amnesty, from Christian Waffenschmidt and Miroslav Ostojic, who helped me understand my rights and the importance of my interview. I’ve seen this hope in the work of other charity organizations supporting refugees.
The hope, I declared, is not in the system, but in us: the volunteers and the asylum seekers themselves.
At Basel Pride, we celebrate freedom, but we must also fight for it. I urged the audience to see beyond the polished image of Switzerland. Question the official narrative. Ask your representatives why the SEM operates with such impunity, altering transcripts, ignoring evidence, destroying lives, and lying in official documents.
I implored people to volunteer. Sign up for Queer Amnesty’s mentorship program. Your empathy, time, and understanding of this country are a lifeline for queer refugees who are lost, scared, and alone. You can provide the peer support people like me desperately need.
Finally, I stressed that your Pride is political. Pride began as a riot, a protest against a system that sought to keep us in the shadows. That fight is far from over. It is happening right now, in the asylum bunkers underground, in the interview rooms at the SEM, and in the hearts of those told their trauma isn’t “enough.”
My story, I emphasized, is not unique. Countless others are here, your neighbors living in Basel asylum and refugee camps, though you may not see them.
True Pride is not just a celebration; it is a fight. It is the fight for the person in the bunker tonight afraid to sleep. It is the fight for the lesbian from Uganda who received a negative decision, the trans person from Peru who faces deportation, and the gay man from Pakistan, like me, who continues a legal battle.
There is no pride for anyone until there is freedom, dignity, and safety for everyone.
Thank you for listening, and thank you for being a part of this vital fight. You can read more about my experiences and advocacy here on my website, AliRazaKhan.com.
Je suis incroyablement honoré et enthousiaste d’annoncer que je serai l’un des orateurs lors de la Pride Walk du festival Basel tickt bunt ! le samedi 28 juin 2025. La devise de cette année, « Queer Rights are Human Rights » (Les droits des personnes queer sont des droits humains), résonne profondément en moi et dans mon travail, et j’ai hâte de me tenir à vos côtés en signe de solidarité.
Le festival Basel tickt bunt ! prend une position essentielle contre les attaques politiques croissantes visant les personnes LGBTQIA+ dans le monde entier. C’est un appel puissant à l’action, nous rappelant que, plus que jamais, nous devons nous unir pour défendre les droits humains fondamentaux pour toutes et tous, partout.
Comme beaucoup d’entre vous le savent, mon parcours d’activiste a commencé en 2015. En tant que jeune réfugié gay séropositif du Pakistan, j’ai consacré ma vie à plaider pour la santé et les droits sexuels et reproductifs, la prévention du VIH/SIDA et la consolidation de la paix au sein des communautés gays et queer. J’ai eu le privilège de travailler avec de nombreuses organisations – locales, nationales et internationales – toutes œuvrant pour les droits des personnes gays vivant avec le VIH et d’autres communautés vulnérables.
Actuellement, je dirige la campagne et le réseau Pride Pakistan, qui se concentrent sur les droits et l’autonomisation de la communauté LGBTQI+ pakistanaise. À l’échelle mondiale, je suis membre de la Délégation des Communautés au conseil d’administration du Fonds mondial de lutte contre le sida, la tuberculose et le paludisme et co-responsable de The Youth PACT, qui travaillent tous deux sans relâche pour prévenir le VIH et le sida chez les personnes gays et d’autres populations clés vulnérables. Mes efforts ont été reconnus par le Youth Leadership Award 2021 et le HIV HERO Award 2021 décernés par APCOM, ce qui renforce encore mon engagement.
La lutte pour les droits des personnes queer est inextricablement liée à la lutte plus large pour les droits humains. Lorsque les droits fondamentaux d’un groupe sont menacés, cela diminue la liberté et la dignité de chacun de nous. Mon discours à la Basel Pride sera l’occasion d’amplifier ce message, de partager mes expériences et d’appeler à une action continue et à l’alliance.
Détails de l’événement : Rejoignez-nous !
Voici les informations essentielles pour participer à la Pride Walk :
Date : Samedi 28 juin 2025
Point de rencontre : Theodorsgraben, dans le parc à côté de la Wettsteinplatz, 4058 Bâle
Heure :
Rassemblement : 15h30
Discours : vers 16h00 (je parlerai vers cette heure-là !)
Je suis particulièrement heureux que les discours soient traduits en langue des signes, garantissant ainsi que notre message atteigne un public encore plus large.
Rejoignez-moi, ainsi que les autres orateurs Conradin Cramer, Edibe Gölgeli et Frank Lorenz, alors que nous marcherons à travers Bâle, envoyant un signal clair et visible pour les droits humains et la diversité. Faisons entendre nos voix et unissons-nous pour un monde où « Queer Rights are Human Rights » n’est pas seulement une devise, mais une réalité vécue par toutes et tous.
Es ist mir eine unglaubliche Ehre und Freude bekannt zu geben, dass ich am Samstag, den 28. Juni 2025, als Redner beim Pride Walk des Basel tickt bunt! Festivals dabei sein werde. Das diesjährige Motto, „Queer Rights are Human Rights“, deckt sich zutiefst mit meiner Arbeit und mir, und ich kann es kaum erwarten, gemeinsam mit euch allen Solidarität zu zeigen.
Das Basel tickt bunt! Festival setzt ein entscheidendes Zeichen gegen die zunehmenden politischen Angriffe auf LGBTQIA+-Menschen weltweit. Es ist ein kraftvoller Aufruf zum Handeln, der uns daran erinnert, dass wir jetzt mehr denn je zusammenstehen müssen, um grundlegende Menschenrechte für jeden, überall, zu verteidigen.
Wie viele von euch wissen, begann mein Aktivismus im Jahr 2015. Als junger, HIV-positiver schwuler Flüchtling aus Pakistan habe ich mein Leben der Interessenvertretung für sexuelle und reproduktive Gesundheit und Rechte, der HIV/AIDS-Prävention und der Friedensförderung innerhalb der schwulen und queeren Gemeinschaften gewidmet. Ich hatte das Privileg, mit zahlreichen lokalen, nationalen und internationalen Organisationen zusammenzuarbeiten, die sich alle für die Rechte von schwulen Menschen mit HIV und anderen gefährdeten Gemeinschaften einsetzen.
Derzeit leite ich die Kampagne und das Netzwerk Pride Pakistan, das sich auf die Rechte und die Stärkung der pakistanischen LGBTQI+-Gemeinschaft konzentriert. Auf globaler Ebene bin ich Mitglied der Communities’ Delegation im Vorstand des Globalen Fonds zur Bekämpfung von HIV, Tuberkulose und Malaria und Co-Leiter von The Youth PACT, die beide unermüdlich daran arbeiten, HIV und AIDS unter schwulen und anderen Schlüsselpopulationen zu verhindern. Meine Bemühungen wurden mit dem Youth Leadership Award 2021 und dem HIV HERO Award 2021 von APCOM ausgezeichnet, was mein Engagement zusätzlich beflügelt.
Der Kampf für die Rechte von Queers ist untrennbar mit dem umfassenderen Kampf für Menschenrechte verbunden. Wenn die Grundrechte einer Gruppe bedroht sind, schmälert dies die Freiheit und Würde von uns allen. Meine Rede bei der Basel Pride wird eine Gelegenheit sein, diese Botschaft zu verstärken, meine Erfahrungen zu teilen und zu weiterem Handeln und Solidarität aufzurufen.
Veranstaltungsdetails: Seid dabei!
Hier sind die wichtigsten Informationen, um am Pride Walk teilzunehmen:
Datum: Samstag, 28. Juni 2025
Treffpunkt: Theodorsgraben, im Park neben dem Wettsteinplatz, 4058 Basel
Zeit:
Treffen: 15:30 Uhr
Reden: ca. 16:00 Uhr (Ich werde etwa um diese Zeit sprechen!)
Es freut mich besonders, dass die Reden in Gebärdensprache übersetzt werden, um sicherzustellen, dass unsere Botschaft ein noch breiteres Publikum erreicht.
Kommt zusammen mit den weiteren Rednern Conradin Cramer, Edibe Gölgeli und Frank Lorenz, wenn wir durch Basel marschieren und ein klares und sichtbares Zeichen für Menschenrechte und Vielfalt setzen. Lasst uns unsere Stimmen erheben und gemeinsam für eine Welt eintreten, in der “Queer Rights are Human Rights” nicht nur ein Motto, sondern eine gelebte Realität für alle ist.
I am incredibly honored and excited to announce that I will be a speaker at the Basel tickt bunt! Festival’s Pride Walk on Saturday, June 28, 2025. This year’s motto, “Queer Rights are Human Rights,” resonates deeply with me and my work, and I can’t wait to stand with all of you in solidarity.
The Basel tickt bunt! Festival is taking a vital stand against the increasing political attacks on LGBTQIA+ people globally. It’s a powerful call to action, reminding us that now, more than ever, we must unite to defend fundamental human rights for everyone, everywhere.
As many of you know, my journey as an activist began in 2015. As a young, HIV-positive gay refugee from Pakistan, I’ve dedicated my life to advocating for sexual reproductive health and rights, HIV/AIDS prevention, and peace-building within the gay and queer communities. I’ve had the privilege of working with numerous organizations—local, national, and international—all striving for the rights of gay people living with HIV and other vulnerable communities.
Currently, I’m leading the Pride Pakistan campaign and network, focusing on the rights and empowerment of the Pakistani LGBTQI+ community. On a global scale, I serve as a member of the Communities’ Delegation to the board of the Global Fund for HIV, TB and Malaria and co-lead The Youth PACT, both working tirelessly to prevent HIV and AIDS among gay and other key populations. My efforts have been recognized with the Youth Leadership Award 2021 and the HIV HERO Award 2021 by APCOM, which further fuels my commitment.
The fight for queer rights is inextricably linked to the broader fight for human rights. When any group’s basic rights are threatened, it diminishes the freedom and dignity of us all. My speech at Basel Pride will be an opportunity to amplify this message, share my experiences, and call for continued action and allyship.
Event Details: Join Us!
Here’s the essential information for joining the Pride Walk:
Date: Saturday, June 28, 2025
Meeting Point: Theodorsgraben, in the park next to Wettsteinplatz, 4058 Basel
Time:
Meeting: 15:30
Speeches: approx. 16:00 (I’ll be speaking around this time!)
I am particularly pleased that the speeches will be translated into sign language, ensuring that our message reaches an even wider audience.
Join me, along with fellow speakers Conradin Cramer, Edibe Gölgeli, and Frank Lorenz, as we march through Basel, sending a clear and visible signal for human rights and diversity. Let’s make our voices heard and stand together for a world where “Queer Rights are Human Rights” is not just a motto, but a lived reality for everyone.
Asalaam Alaikum and a very Happy Pride Month to all!
This Pride Month, I was incredibly honoured to contribute a video message to the Asia Pacific Network of YKP (Youth LEAD AP) for their powerful series, “Queer Joy as Resistance.” As the founder of PridePakistan.org, a network for LGBTQI+ people of Pakistani origin, this theme resonates deeply with the work we do and the lives we live.
Youth LEAD AP shared a snippet of my message on their social media, which beautifully encapsulated the core idea:
“As Part II of our Queer Joy as Resistance videos, we hear from Ali from Pride Pakistan.
‘Queer joy can be found in intimate and resilient safe spaces… when they want us to live in shame and fear, our laughter is a rebellion.’ 💖
Where can you find queer joy in your community? 🏳️🌈🏳️⚧️
#Pride2025 #Queer #YoungLGBT”
This invitation prompted me to reflect on what queer joy means, especially in contexts like Pakistan where our community faces immense challenges.
For too long, young LGBTIQ+ individuals in Pakistan have been navigating systemic discrimination. We’ve witnessed the insidious spread of anti-gender and anti-rights movements, escalating from whispers on social media to the very halls of policy-making. These movements don’t just seek to silence us; they aim to erase our existence and deny our fundamental humanity.
But our resistance is not solely defined by the fight against oppression. It is equally, if not more importantly, about embracing and celebrating the vibrant tapestry of who we are.
For me, queer joy is that undeniable spark in our eyes when we connect with someone who understands our journey without a single word needing to be spoken. It’s the “hamsafar” – the fellow traveller, the companion – who sees us, celebrates us, and stands unflinchingly by our side, no matter the cost. It’s the shared laugh over a coded joke, a moment of understanding that transcends the need for explanation. In Pakistan, where public expression of our identities can be fraught with fear, queer joy is often cultivated in these intimate, resilient safe spaces – be they online forums, trusted circles of friends, or deep within the sanctuary of our own hearts.
This is why I say: When they want us to live in fear and shame, our laughter is a rebellion.
How can we continue to wield this joy as a potent form of resistance?
By Living Authentically: Every time we choose to live true to ourselves, even in small ways, we chip away at the fear they try to instill.
By Building and Nurturing Our Communities: These spaces, whether online or offline, are our lifelines. They are where we find strength, understanding, and a sense of belonging.
By Celebrating Each Other Loudly: When one of us finds happiness, achieves a milestone, or simply experiences a moment of peace, celebrating that joy amplifies our collective spirit. It sends a message that we are here, we are thriving, and we will not be diminished.
By Extending That Joy Outwards: Our joy can be infectious. It has the power to educate, to challenge harmful misconceptions, and to build bridges with those who may not yet understand.
In Pakistan, where the fight for our rights is an ongoing, often uphill battle, our joy is not a luxury; it is our fuel and our armour. It reminds us of the beauty, the love, and the freedom we are fighting for: a future where every young LGBTIQ+ Pakistani can live freely, safely, and joyfully.
Thank you for allowing me to share these thoughts. Let us continue to find, create, and share our queer joy, not just this Pride Month, but every day.
HIV and hepatitis (B and C) can be asymptomatic for a long time and, if left untreated, can damage bodily functions. There is medication for HIV that allows a person to live a good life. There are effective medications for hepatitis C. With medication, HIV is not transmitted further. Hepatitis A and B viruses can be protected against with vaccination.
🤝 Testing is a human right.
HIV and STI testing should be easily available, without barriers or stigma. Services need to be developed so that people who need them but have not yet sought them out can find their way to these services.
In many European countries, immigrants without a residence permit are left without necessary treatment and services. Health and healthcare are also a right for undocumented individuals and those in similar situations!
❤️🩹 Stigma does not belong in health services.
It must be possible to talk about sexual health openly and respectfully with clients.
STIs are still often associated with shame, which can be a barrier to seeking testing. A professional, through their own attitude, can help a client overcome any feelings of shame related to STIs. It helps the client when the professional asks a few simple and open questions that give the client permission to share what has happened and what STI risks are associated with the client’s sexual practices.
Posters from the Right to HIV Testing project. You can find ready-made materials for celebrating testing week here >> hivpoint.fi/testausviikko
Eurooppalaisella testausviikolla halutaan muistuttaa varhaisen hiv-testauksen merkityksestä ja tähdätään helpommin saavutettaviin hiv- ja seksitautitestauspalveluihin
Miksi hiv- ja seksitautitestausta pitäisi edistää❔
🩷 Varhainen toteaminen edistää hyvinvointia. Testausta tehostamalla saadaan tartunnat hoidettua, tartuntaketjut katkaistua ja edistetään ihmisten seksuaalista hyvinvointia. Hiv ja hepatiitit (B ja C) voivat olla oireettomia pitkään ja hoitamattomina vaurioittaa elimistön toimintoja. Hiviin on olemassa lääkehoito, jonka avulla ihminen voi elää hyvää elämää. C-hepatiittiin on tehokkaita lääkkeitä. Lääkehoidolla hiv ei tartu eteenpäin. Hepatiitti A- ja B-viruksilta voi suojautua rokotuksella.
🤝 Testaus on ihmisoikeus. Hiv- ja seksitautitestausta tulisi olla saatavilla helposti, ilman kynnystä ja leimaamista. Palveluja on kehitettävä, jotta palvelujen piiriin löytävät ihmiset, jotka tarvitsevat niitä, mutta eivät ole vielä niihin hakeutuneet. Monissa Euroopan maissa ilman oleskelulupaa olevat maahan muuttaneet jäävät ilman tarvittavaa hoitoa ja palveluja. Terveys ja terveydenhuolto on myös paperittomien ja paperittomien kaltaisessa tilanteessa olevien ihmisten oikeus!
❤️🩹 Stigma ei kuulu terveyspalveluihin. Seksuaaliterveydestä pitää voida puhua avoimesti ja asiakasta kunnioittavasti. Seksitauteihin liittyy edelleen usein häpeää, joka voi olla este testeihin hakeutumiselle. Ammattilainen voi omalla suhtautumisellaan auttaa asiakasta pääsemään yli mahdollisesta seksitauteihin liittyvästä häpeän tunteesta. Asiakasta auttaa, kun ammattilainen esittää muutamia yksinkertaisia ja avoimia kysymyksiä, jotka antavat asiakkaalle luvan kertoa, mitä on tapahtunut ja millaisia seksitautiriskejä asiakkaan seksitapoihin liittyy.
Held in Geneva I participated in the Communities Delegation preparation meeting as member of the delegation ahead of the 53rd global fund board meeting. The importance of meeting is significance after the pull out of US from major global entities they were funding. This brings the The Global Fund for HIV TB and Malaria programs across the globe under threat as US is one of the major funder with its commitment to match one dollar for each two dollar contribution from other donors.
Digital technology is in many ways a new frontier that is increasingly part of our everyday lives making the perspectives, experiences and lessons learned from key population communities and civil society even more crucial to ground and inform this report. As a leading expert at the global, regional and national level, Iwas invited by UNAIDS consultant Robin Montgomery to have a conversation on the topic of AI for HIV. The conversation covered a number of issues (opportunities, challenges, lessons learned, etc) where I provided the critical input to define and chart the path forward.
How do digital health innovations [and by extension, AI] figure into your organization’s/network’s current and future-oriented strategies?
What are the top 3-4 concerns/risks that you have/your organization has/your communities have expressed about integrating AI technologies into service delivery across the HIV care cascade?
What opportunities do you see for the greater integration of AI tools into HIV prevention, treatment, care and support services and programs?
What is needed to build community capacity to engage in AI for HIV interventions?
What are 2-3 key considerations that you would like UNAIDS to reflect within the incoming Global AIDS Strategy?
Are there examples of good practice digital health/AI interventions that you would recommend us to look at?
In 2024, the Youth PACT Partnership did a lot of Impactful work led by young people. In this article, we share some of the essential highlights of the year 2024.
Empowering Youth Through the UPROOT Scorecard Program
In 2024, The Youth PACT Partnership successfully implemented the UPROOT Scorecard Program in over six countries in collaboration with Youth Lead Asia Pacific YKP Network, YPlus Global, UNAIDS, and other stakeholders. This scorecard has been instrumental in assessing youth-led movements and youth engagement at the country level, empowering communities, and providing valuable insights through its comprehensive reports. Our UPROOT Scorecard strategic initiatives extended to various regions, including Nepal, Guatemala, and Madagascar. The project in India, Pakistan, and Ivory Coast since October 2020 has significantly impacted youth empowerment and advocacy.
Advocating for Human Rights and LGBTQIA+ Communities
The Youth PACT has been a vocal advocate for human rights, mainly focusing on the rights of young individuals affected by HIV, especially within the LGBTQIA+ community. Our advocacy efforts include reports, videos, and messages on our social media and website.
Participation in Global Events
Our members have actively participated in high-profile events like the 68th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW68) and the ICPD 30 Conference in Geneva. Notable contributions include Kushal Rana Singh’s participation at ICPD30 and Xu Yahan’s at CSW68. Our member Adeeba Amin has actively engaged in various advocacy events, including representing adolescent girls in the ICPD30 Global Dialogue in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Digital Advocacy and Webinars
We’ve developed a comprehensive Digital Advocacy Manual, guiding young people in designing and implementing effective digital campaigns. Additionally, we’ve organised capacity-building webinars under ayKP Global Partnership on topics like “Network and Organizational Development” and “Monitoring and Evaluation.”
Raising Awareness of Critical Issues
The Youth PACT has been instrumental in raising awareness about criminalisation laws and their impact on the LGBTQIA+ community, with a notable focus on Ghana. We’ve consistently highlighted the importance of gender identity rights globally.
Contributions to the Global AIDS Conference 2024
Ali Raza Khan and Venicia Fernandes represented The Youth PACT at the Global AIDS Conference in Munich, Germany. During the Youth Pavilion sessions, they discussed youth-led monitoring, the impact of climate change on young people, and the HIV response.
Podcasts and Social Media Engagement
The Youth PACT has produced a series of podcasts related to the UPROOT Scorecard Program, available on our social media channels.
Addressing Emerging Health Concerns
We raised awareness about Monkeypox vaccination, especially among people living with HIV. Ali Raza Khan’s blog post “Vaccination as a Person Living with HIV” provides detailed insights on this topic.
Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) Advocacy
Our advocacy campaigns have highlighted the importance of Comprehensive Sexuality Education, mainly through the CSE Asia Pacific 2024 Conference.
Highlighting Global Issues and Achievements
From championing women’s, children’s, and LGBTQIA+ rights in Sri Lanka to addressing adolescent fertility challenges in Latin America, our members have contributed valuable content to our website and social media platforms.
Celebrating World AIDS Day
We ended the year by celebrating World AIDS Day, promoting the “Right Path” for respecting and accepting LGBTQIA+ and key populations’ rights to counter HIV stigma and achieve the UN goal of 95-95-95 by 2030. For World AIDS Day, we amplified the voices of young people living with HIV, calling on global leaders to invest in youth
Personal Contributions by Ali Raza Khan
I, Ali Raza Khan, a young gay activist living with HIV from Pakistan, have made significant contributions to The PACT and AIDS 2024. My engagements included:
HIV Science & Art Exhibition: We will display work at the HIV Science as Art exhibition, highlighting community activists’ struggles.
Participation as Speaker: Speaking at the International AIDS Society’s symposium on the impact of climate emergencies on communities.
Art Installation: I collaborated with artist Khairullah Rahim on an art installation called “Pigeon in Stone Forest,” which depicts the challenges faced by community workers.
The original article written by Ali Raza Khan is available on The Youth PACT website here.
The fight against HIV/AIDS has seen tremendous progress in recent years. However, achieving the ambitious goal of ending the AIDS epidemic by 2030 requires innovative strategies and a focus on empowering the communities most affected by the virus. This is where the UNAIDS 30-60-80 targets come into play.
What are the UNAIDS 30-60-80 Targets?
The UNAIDS 30-60-80 targets are a set of ambitious goals outlined in the Global AIDS Strategy 2021-2026. These targets aim to dramatically increase the involvement of community-led organizations in delivering critical HIV-related services and programs. Here’s a breakdown of each target:
30%: By 2025, at least 30% of HIV testing and treatment services should be delivered by community-led organizations. This includes crucial services like HIV testing, linking individuals to treatment, providing support for adherence and retention in treatment programs, and promoting treatment literacy.
60%: By 2025, a significant portion (60%) of programs that address societal enablers for HIV prevention and treatment should be delivered by community-led organizations. Societal enablers encompass broader social and structural factors that influence HIV outcomes. Examples include reducing stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV, promoting gender equality, and advocating for human rights.
80%: By 2025, a staggering 80% of HIV prevention services for populations most at risk of HIV infection, including women, should be delivered by organizations led by communities, key populations themselves (such as sex workers, people who inject drugs, and men who have sex with men), and women-led organizations. These services might include condom distribution, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), and readily available HIV testing. Why are the 30-60-80 Targets Important?
These ambitious targets are crucial for achieving several key goals in the fight against HIV/AIDS:
Empowerment: Community-led organizations are uniquely positioned to understand the specific needs and challenges faced by their communities. By increasing their role in delivering services, the targets empower these communities to take ownership of the HIV response. Improved Access: Community-based organizations often have established trust and reach within their communities. This allows them to provide services in a more culturally appropriate and accessible way, leading to potentially higher utilization by individuals who might otherwise hesitate to access traditional healthcare settings. Tailored Interventions: Community-led organizations have a deep understanding of local contexts and can design interventions that are more responsive to the specific needs of key populations and people living with HIV. Challenges and the Path Forward
Reaching the 30-60-80 targets requires addressing some challenges. Currently, there’s a lack of robust tracking systems to monitor progress towards these goals. Additionally, sustainable funding for community-led organizations is critical to ensuring their long-term effectiveness. Despite these challenges, the UNAIDS 30-60-80 targets represent a bold and necessary step towards ending the AIDS epidemic. By increasing community ownership and leadership in the fight against HIV/AIDS, these targets can help ensure that no one is left behind, and that critical services reach those who need them most.
Myself Ali Raza Khan is Committed to Accurate Information on HIV/AIDS :
On my site AliRazaKhan.com I believe in providing accurate and up-to-date information on HIV/AIDS for community and key population awarenss. I hope this article on the UNAIDS 30-60-80 targets sheds light on a crucial aspect of the global strategy towards ending the AIDS epidemic.
As an HIV-positive gay activist from Pakistan, my participation in the International AIDS Society (IAS) Regional Members’ Meeting is more than just a personal commitment. It represents the collective voice of marginalized communities striving for better healthcare and inclusivity. Being a proud member of the IAS since 2019, I have been actively engaged in its activities, ensuring that the concerns of people living with HIV, especially those from my region, are heard and addressed. Scheduled to be held virtually on 31 October 2024, the IAS Regional Members’ Meeting will gather members from Asia and the Pacific Islands. With time slots tailored for different regions (13:00 in Mumbai, 14:30 in Bangkok, 16:30 in Tokyo, and 18:30 in Sydney), this meeting aims to foster inclusive dialogue and collaboration among IAS members.
Introduction by Governing Council Members The meeting was kicked off with an introduction by the Governing Council members, setting the stage for the discussions ahead. This session highlighted the strategic direction of the IAS and provide insights into the organization’s ongoing initiatives. It’s was opportunity for members like myself to understand the broader vision and align our efforts towards common goals.
Lenacapavir: Recent Results in HIV Prevention One of the key topics on the agenda is the recent results in HIV prevention with Lenacapavir. This groundbreaking drug has shown promising results in clinical trials, offering hope for more effective prevention strategies. As someone living with HIV, the advancements in such treatments are personally significant and represent a beacon of hope for many in my community.
Availability and Accessibility of Lenacapavir in the Asia-Pacific The discussion had also focused on the availability and accessibility of Lenacapavir in the Asia-Pacific region, including aspects of voluntary licensing. Ensuring that such innovative treatments are accessible to those who need them most is crucial. This segment had delve into the challenges and opportunities in making Lenacapavir widely available, addressing regulatory, logistical, and financial hurdles. The Harm Reduction Initiative shared the GiLeads efforts mentining that Gilead will deliver LEN swiftly, sustainably and in sufficient volumes. Establishing a robust voluntary licensing program with Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Limited, Emcure, Eva Pharma, Ferozsons Laboratories Limited, Hetero and Mylan, a subsidiary of Viatris to manufacture and supply lenacapavir to the 120 countries. Prioritizing registration in 18 countries that represent about 70% of the HIV burden and provide Gilead-supplied product at no profit to Gilead until generic manufacturers are able to fully support demand. Working on additional ways to support access in upper-middle and high-income countries to establish fast, efficient pathways to help reach people who need or want PrEP, including timely regulatory filings, engagement with partners.
Hearing from IAS Members The most anticipated part of the meeting is hearing from IAS members. This session was designed to provide a platform for members to share their experiences, challenges, and successes. As an advocate for the rights of HIV-positive individuals in Pakistan, I have contributed by sharing my insights and learning. This exchange of ideas is vital for fostering a supportive and informed community that can drive impactful change. Participating in the IAS Regional Members’ Meeting is a testament to my commitment to HIV advocacy and community leadership. Through this engagement, I aim to amplify the voices of marginalized communities and contribute to the global fight against HIV. By addressing critical issues such as treatment accessibility and sharing best practices, we can work towards a future where everyone has the opportunity to lead a healthy and dignified life.
The IAS provides a unique platform for professionals like myself to collaborate, learn, and advocate for change. Together, we can ensure that our collective efforts translate into meaningful progress for the HIV community worldwide.
By being an active participant in such discussions, I am not only representing my personal journey but also the aspirations of countless individuals facing similar challenges. Our united voice can make a difference in shaping a more inclusive and equitable healthcare landscape.
Read more on International Aids Society members website Here
Dans une récente interview avec Qlub Queer, Ali Raza Khan, un activiste gay séropositif du Pakistan, a partagé son histoire poignante de lutte pour l’égalité et la décriminalisation des personnes LGBTQ+ dans un pays où les relations homosexuelles sont criminalisées.
« Bonjour, je m’appelle Ali Raza Khan et je suis un activiste gay séropositif du Pakistan, pays qui criminalise les relations homosexuelles et les homosexuels. C’est ce qui arrive quand vous êtes séropositif et que vous entrez dans les établissements de santé. Vous êtes traité comme un criminel. Non seulement vous êtes traité comme un criminel dans les établissements de santé, mais même si vous travaillez pour la santé des hommes ayant des rapports sexuels avec des hommes ou des homosexuels, vous êtes traité comme un individu anti-étatique par les autorités sur le terrain. Beaucoup de gens ne parlent pas par peur d’être arrêtés ou détenus ou d’être torturés par les autorités. Si j’avais le pouvoir de changer les choses, je changerais la criminalisation des homosexuels au Pakistan, afin qu’ils puissent exprimer librement ce qu’ils sont. »
Le plaidoyer d’Ali Raza Khan est crucial dans un pays où le fait d’être ouvertement homosexuel peut entraîner de graves conséquences. Au Pakistan, les relations entre personnes de même sexe sont criminalisées en vertu de l’article 377 du Code pénal, qui prévoit des peines allant de deux ans à la réclusion à perpétuité. La loi, vestige de la domination coloniale britannique, est parfois appliquée, mais le plus souvent elle est utilisée pour menacer et harceler les personnes LGBTQ+ et de nombreux cas ne sont pas signalés.
La discrimination à l’encontre des personnes séropositives au Pakistan est un autre défi important. Les personnes vivant avec le VIH sont souvent confrontées à la stigmatisation et à la discrimination dans les établissements de santé, ce qui peut conduire à une réticence à rechercher un traitement et à se faire dépister. Cette discrimination s’étend au-delà des soins de santé, affectant l’emploi, la vie de famille et les interactions sociales. Le travail d’Ali Raza Khan est une lueur d’espoir pour de nombreux membres de la communauté LGBTQ+ au Pakistan. En s’exprimant et en plaidant pour le changement, il contribue à sensibiliser et à faire valoir les droits des communautés marginalisées. Ses efforts ne visent pas seulement la décriminalisation, mais aussi la création d’une société où chacun peut vivre librement et sans peur.
Regardez l’interview sur Queer Qlub instagaram : Ici ou ci-dessous
In a recent interview with Qlub Queer, Ali Raza Khan, a HIV-positive gay activist from Pakistan, shared his powerful story of fighting for equality and the decriminalization of LGBTQ+ people in a country where same-sex relationships are criminalized.
” Hi, my name is Ali Raza Khan and I am a HIV positive gay activist from Pakistan, which criminalizes same-sex intercourse, and gay people. That is what happens when you are HIV positive and getting into healthcare facilities. You are treated as a criminal. Not only are you treated as a criminal at healthcare facilities, but even if you are working for the health of men having sex with men or gay people, you are treated as an anti-state individual by the authorities on the ground. Many people don’t speak up because of the fear of getting arrested or being detained or the torture from the authorities. If I had the power to change something, I would change the criminalization of gay people in Pakistan, so they can freely express themselves to what they are “
Ali Raza Khan’s advocacy is crucial in a country where being openly gay can lead to severe consequences. In Pakistan, same-sex relationships are criminalized under Section 377 of the Penal Code, which prescribes penalties ranging from two years to life imprisonment. The law, a remnant of British colonial rule, is occasionally enforced, but more often it is used to threaten and harass LGBTQ+ individuals and many cases do not come forward.
Discrimination against HIV-positive people in Pakistan is another significant challenge. People living with HIV often face stigma and discrimination in healthcare settings, which can lead to a reluctance to seek treatment and testing. This discrimination extends beyond healthcare, affecting employment, family life, and social interactions. Ali Raza Khan’s work is a beacon of hope for many in the LGBTQ+ community in Pakistan. By speaking out and advocating for change, he is helping to raise awareness and push for the rights of marginalized communities. His efforts are not only about decriminalization but also about creating a society where everyone can live freely and without fear.
Watch the interview on Queer Qlub instagaram: Here or Below
Ali Raza Khan, a young HIV positive food expert and minorities rights activist from Pakistan, virtually participated in the Asia and the Pacific Regional Assembly Workshop during the World Food Forum 2024. The session, YA06, held on October 16, 2024 at Ethiopia Room at FAO headquarter, was an enlightening discussion on the importance of food labeling and youth engagement in food and agriculture products in the market.
The workshop delved into the critical issue of food labeling, particularly how it relates to sustainability and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In a world where young people are increasingly conscious of their health and the environment, the accuracy and transparency of food labels are paramount. Misleading labels can have significant adverse effects, making it essential for young consumers to decode these labels accurately.
During the session, various speakers highlighted the role of youth in promoting and demanding sustainable and healthy products. There was a consensus that young people must have access to products that align with their values of health and sustainability. This aligns with the broader goals of SDGs, where sustainable consumption and production patterns are crucial.
Ali Raza Khan contributed to the discussion by sharing insights on the need for universal adoption of label standards. He emphasized that a standardized approach to food labeling would ensure consistency and reliability, making it easier for consumers, especially the youth, to make informed choices. His contributions underscored the importance of transparency in labeling practices and the role it plays in fostering trust between consumers and producers.
The session also addressed the challenges posed by misleading labels. Young people are often bombarded with marketing tactics that can obscure the true nature of food products. The workshop called for stricter regulations and more education to help young consumers navigate these complexities.
This blog post aims to highlight the significant discussions and contributions from the workshop, emphasizing the need for accurate, transparent, and standardized food labeling. Ali Raza Khan’s participation in the World Food Forum 2024 reinforces his commitment to advocating for food security and climate resilience, particularly for minorities and marginalized communities.
For more updates and insights from the World Food Forum 2024, stay tuned to Ali Raza Khan’s journey as he continues to champion the cause of sustainable and healthy food for all.
I am excited to share that I, Ali Raza Khan, had the honor of participating in the World Food Forum 2024, hosted by the World Food Organisation (FAO) at their headquarters in Rome, Italy The event took place from October 14th to 18th, 2024, and featured a variety of sessions focused on youth engagement in food and agriculture.
One of the highlights of the forum was the Youth Assembly Opening Ceremony, session YM01, held on Monday, October 14th, 2024. This session brought together young leaders, activists, and experts from around the world to discuss the critical role of youth in addressing global food security challenges.
As a young HIV positive food expert and minorities rights activist from Pakistan, I participated in the session and the entire event virtually. My primary area of interest is Global Youth Action, and I was eager to share my experiences and insights on how to engage youth in the fight against food insecurity and climate change.
The session featured several inspiring speakers who emphasized the importance of youth involvement in creating sustainable solutions for food security. Their stories and perspectives were a powerful reminder of the impact that young people can have on shaping the future of our food systems.
Throughout the forum, I had the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and organizations, exchange ideas, and learn about innovative approaches to tackling food security and climate resilience. It was a truly enriching experience, and I am grateful for the chance to be part of such a significant event.
I look forward to continuing my work in advocating for food security and climate resilience, especially for minorities in Pakistan and globally. Stay tuned for more updates and insights from my journey as I strive to make a difference in the world.
Ali Raza Khan, a renowned HIV positive gay activist, will be delivering an online awareness session as part of the HIVPoint.fi Health Buddy 2024 volunteer program. This crucial event is organized in collaboration with UnitedVision.fi and aims to educate and empower individuals about HIV.
Join the session on October 17, 2024, at 14:00 (EEST) via Google Meet. (https://meet.google.com/xzv-gdko-ynv) During the session, participants will learn essential facts about HIV transmission, prevention, testing, and the available treatments in Finland that can help stop the spread of the virus. This safe space for discussion will be led by Health Buddy Ali Raza Khan, who brings a wealth of experience and dedication to the cause.
Ali Raza Khan has been a tireless advocate for the rights of men having sex with men, gay people, sex workers, and other HIV key populations both in Pakistan and globally. His dedication to raising awareness and supporting affected communities has made a significant impact worldwide.
Don’t miss this opportunity to empower yourself with knowledge. Whether you’re looking to learn for yourself or to support others, this session is for everyone!
For more details and updates, visit AliRazaKhan.com blogs sesction and follow Ali Raza Khan’s social media by supporting his continued efforts in advocating for a healthier, more informed community.
The World Food Forum 2024 is a pivotal event addressing the intertwined challenges of food security and climate change. This year, Ali Raza Khan is honored to join global leaders, experts, and advocates at the FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy, with a primary focus on Global Youth Action.
Ali Raza Khan’s journey in this field has been deeply influenced by his academic background and professional experiences. Holding a Master’s degree in Food Safety and Quality Management from the University of Agriculture Faisalabad and a Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture from the University of Agriculture Multan, he has dedicated his career to addressing the critical issues of food security and climate change, especially as they affect marginalized communities in Pakistan.
As a member of civil society, Ali Raza Khan’s work involves raising awareness and advocating for the rights and needs of minorities affected by these global challenges. The World Food Forum 2024 provides an unparalleled platform to highlight the unique struggles and innovative solutions emerging from these communities.
At the conference, Ali Raza Khan will share insights from his initiatives aimed at combating food insecurity and enhancing climate resilience for minorities in Pakistan. These initiatives have been instrumental in bringing to light the pressing issues faced by these communities and in promoting sustainable practices that can be replicated globally.
The forum’s emphasis on Global Youth Action aligns perfectly with Ali Raza Khan’s mission to empower the younger generation, equipping them with the knowledge and tools needed to drive meaningful change. By fostering a collaborative environment, the World Food Forum 2024 promises to be a transformative experience, paving the way for a more inclusive and sustainable future.
Ali Raza Khan looks forward to engaging with like-minded individuals and organizations, sharing stories of resilience, and working together to build solutions that leave no one behind. Follow his journey at the World Food Forum 2024 and join him in advocating for a world where food security and climate resilience are realities for all.
