Ali Raza Khan

Category: LGBTQIA+ : Proud Queer Muslim

Ali Raza Khan work for gay and LGBTQI+ community

  • Ensuring Safety and Security for LGBTQI+ Community Members in Pakistan : Speaker Ali Raza Khan

    Ensuring Safety and Security for LGBTQI+ Community Members in Pakistan : Speaker Ali Raza Khan

    The Importance of Freedom and Rights for LGBTQI+ People in Pakistan

    The LGBTQI+ community in Pakistan has long been marginalized, facing legal and social discrimination. Despite these challenges, there have been significant efforts to advocate for their rights and inclusion. 

    However, the broader LGBTQI+ community still faces legal hurdles. Same-sex relationships remain criminalized under Section 377 of the Pakistan Penal Code, a relic of colonial-era laws1. This legal framework not only criminalizes consensual same-sex relationships but also perpetuates social stigma and discrimination.

    Historical Efforts and Progress

    Throughout history, there have been numerous efforts to support and uplift the LGBTQI+ community in Pakistan. Activists and organizations have worked tirelessly to create safe spaces and advocate for legal reforms. 

    The resilience of the LGBTQI+ community in Pakistan is evident in their continued fight for recognition and rights. Despite facing societal backlash, they have managed to carve out spaces for themselves, fostering a sense of community and solidarity.

    Celebrating Independence Day with Inclusivity

    As we celebrate Pakistan’s Independence Day, it’s essential to remember that true freedom and independence mean ensuring that all citizens, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation, can live without fear of discrimination or violence. This day should serve as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and the need to create a more inclusive society.

    The Role of Activists: Ali Raza Khan

    One of the prominent voices in this struggle is Ali Raza Khan, an HIV-positive gay activist who has been at the forefront of advocating for the rights of LGBTQI+ individuals in Pakistan. Ali Raza Khan is the founder of Pride Pakistan, an initiative focused on Pakistani LGBTQIA+, queer and vulnerable populations. His work in HIV prevention, sexual and reproductive health, and rights has been recognized both nationally and internationally.

    Ali Raza Khan will be speaking during an online session hosted by Pride Pakistan and Persian LGBT UK, highlighting the importance of creating safe spaces and advocating for the rights of LGBTQI+ individuals. His efforts underscore the critical need for continued activism and support for the LGBTQI+ community in Pakistan.

    Your Voice Matters

    Creating a safer and more inclusive environment for everyone requires collective effort. By raising awareness, advocating for legal reforms, and supporting LGBTQI+ organizations, we can work towards a society where everyone is free to live authentically and without fear. Your voice matters in this fight for equality and justice.

    Let’s honor Pakistan’s Independence Day by committing to the values of freedom and equality for all, ensuring that the LGBTQI+ community can celebrate their identity with pride and without fear.

    As Pakistan celebrates its Independence Day, it’s crucial to reflect on the values of freedom and equality that the nation was founded upon. These values must extend to all citizens, including the LGBTQI+ community, who continue to face significant challenges in their quest for safety, security, and equal rights.

    The Importance of Freedom and Rights for LGBTQI+ People in Pakistan

    The LGBTQI+ community in Pakistan has long been marginalized, facing legal and social discrimination. Despite these challenges, there have been significant efforts to advocate for their rights and inclusion. 

    However, the broader LGBTQI+ community still faces legal hurdles. Same-sex relationships remain criminalized under Section 377 of the Pakistan Penal Code, a relic of colonial-era laws1. This legal framework not only criminalizes consensual same-sex relationships but also perpetuates social stigma and discrimination.

    Historical Efforts and Progress

    Throughout history, there have been numerous efforts to support and uplift the LGBTQI+ community in Pakistan. Activists and organizations have worked tirelessly to create safe spaces and advocate for legal reforms. 

    The resilience of the LGBTQI+ community in Pakistan is evident in their continued fight for recognition and rights. Despite facing societal backlash, they have managed to carve out spaces for themselves, fostering a sense of community and solidarity.

    Celebrating Independence Day with Inclusivity

    As we celebrate Pakistan’s Independence Day, it’s essential to remember that true freedom and independence mean ensuring that all citizens, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation, can live without fear of discrimination or violence. This day should serve as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and the need to create a more inclusive society.

    The Role of Activists: Ali Raza Khan

    One of the prominent voices in this struggle is Ali Raza Khan, an HIV-positive gay activist who has been at the forefront of advocating for the rights of LGBTQI+ individuals in Pakistan. Ali Raza Khan is the founder of Pride Pakistan, an initiative focused on Pakistani LGBTQIA+, queer and vulnerable populations. His work in HIV prevention, sexual and reproductive health, and rights has been recognized both nationally and internationally.

    Ali Raza Khan will be speaking during an online session hosted by Pride Pakistan and Persian LGBT UK, highlighting the importance of creating safe spaces and advocating for the rights of LGBTQI+ individuals. His efforts underscore the critical need for continued activism and support for the LGBTQI+ community in Pakistan.

    Your Voice Matters

    Creating a safer and more inclusive environment for everyone requires collective effort. By raising awareness, advocating for legal reforms, and supporting LGBTQI+ organizations, we can work towards a society where everyone is free to live authentically and without fear. Your voice matters in this fight for equality and justice.

    Let’s honor Pakistan’s Independence Day by committing to the values of freedom and equality for all, ensuring that the LGBTQI+ community can celebrate their identity with pride and without fear.

    See Post on Persian LGBT UK Instagaram Account Here

  • Connectedness & Community – Ali Raza Khan Journey with UNICEF Global Partnership for Adolescent and Young Key Populations

    Connectedness & Community – Ali Raza Khan Journey with UNICEF Global Partnership for Adolescent and Young Key Populations

    It was an honor to be invited by the UNICEF-led Global Partnership for Adolescents and Young Key Populations (Global ayKP Partnership) to speak at their recent event. The topic, “Connectedness & Community,” resonates deeply with the work we are doing on the ground in Pakistan for children and young people living with HIV and other vulnerable key populations, including gays, MSM (men who have sex with men), and sex workers. Here’s a summary of the insights I shared during the session.

    At HIV Voices, we define ourselves as a youth-led initiative working for young people living with HIV and adolescents from key populations. Our approach leverages digital and innovative methods to reach individuals who are often difficult to engage due to their circumstances and locations in Pakistan. Our group comprises a diverse array of young people dedicated to spreading awareness about HIV, prevention methods, and addressing the unique challenges we face, including security concerns and the impact of climate change.

    Engagement and Empowerment

    One of our core activities involves ensuring that adolescent and young key population (ykp) voices are heard. This includes:

    • Mobilizing our members
    • Conducting capacity-building training sessions
    • Utilizing various platforms and methods available on the ground
    • Making our voices heard at national and global levels through letter and story campaigns, particularly on digital and social media platforms.

    Fostering Reproductive Health and Rights

    We place significant emphasis on the reproductive health and rights of adolescents and young girls. Our efforts are not just about HIV prevention but also about creating a safe space where key populations can voice their concerns and work together to tackle issues that affect their well-being.

    Connectedness as a Core Theme

    The theme of connectedness is at the heart of our work, especially in a conservative country like Pakistan, where key populations are criminalized, and safe spaces are scarce. We often face pressure from various security-related entities and other stakeholders, which can hinder our efforts. However, understanding and navigating these conditions is our strength. As young people and peer mentors, we know how to deal with the issues we encounter on the ground, ensuring that young people from key populations and other stakeholders remain connected and that our voices are heard.

    Addressing Interconnected Issues

    When working with vulnerable key populations, we sometimes overlook interconnected issues. Our programs and activities aim to bridge this gap by raising awareness and fostering collaboration among different groups. For example, we’ve facilitated exercises that help participants understand how issues affecting one key population are linked to those of another, promoting a more unified approach to addressing these challenges.

    A Message of Empowerment

    Allow me to share a powerful message from Aslam, a young man living with HIV and a member of our group, Young Positive People of Pakistan:


    “Hello everyone, my name is Aslam, and I’m a young man living with HIV. When I was diagnosed through a community-based organization working for key populations, I felt the need for additional support and a desire to contribute to my community. Connecting with Young Positive People of Pakistan not only helped me feel supported but also empowered me in navigating HIV-related systems. Since becoming a member, I have expanded my knowledge about the global fund process in Pakistan, learned about the contributions of various stakeholders, and represented young PLHIV (people living with HIV) on national and international platforms. This involvement has enabled me to address our community’s issues effectively and advocate for our rights.”

    The work we do on the ground, driven by the theme of connectedness, is vital. It’s crucial for global organizations and partnerships to continue supporting these efforts at a global level. The empowerment and collaboration of young key populations are essential to creating an inclusive and effective response to HIV. Thank you to the Global Partnership for Adolescents and Young Key Populations for providing this platform and for recognizing the importance of our collective efforts.

    Together, we can make a difference.

    Read more about the session

    On ayKP website hosted by UNICEF here

    https://www.childrenandaids.org/aykp-partnership-webinar-series

    Watch the session on UNICEF YouTube channel here

  • Mental Health and Global Health

    Mental Health and Global Health

    The importance of mental health in global health, particularly during a pandemic, cannot be overstated. Mental health plays a critical role in overall well-being and is intricately connected to physical health, social functioning, and the ability to cope with challenges and adversity. Here are some key reasons why mental health should be prioritized in global health, especially in the context of a pandemic:

    Psychological impact of the pandemic: The pandemic has led to increased levels of stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders due to factors such as fear of infection, social isolation, loss of loved ones, financial strain, and disruptions in daily life. Addressing mental health is essential to mitigate these psychological impacts.

    Impact on physical health: Mental health conditions can have significant effects on physical health. Conditions like anxiety and depression can increase the risk of chronic diseases, weaken the immune system, and hinder individuals from seeking necessary healthcare services, leading to poorer health outcomes.

    Social and economic consequences: Mental health issues can exacerbate social inequalities and have long-term economic consequences. Poor mental health can affect educational attainment, employment prospects, and productivity, thereby impacting socioeconomic development and widening existing health disparities.

    Strengthening healthcare systems: Integrating mental health services into primary healthcare systems strengthens overall healthcare delivery. It enables early detection and treatment of mental health disorders, reduces the burden on specialized mental health facilities, and promotes a comprehensive approach to health and well-being.

    Human rights perspective: Recognizing and addressing mental health as a fundamental human right is crucial. This includes ensuring access to mental health services, combating stigma and discrimination, and promoting the inclusion and participation of individuals with mental health conditions in society.

    Resilience and recovery: Prioritizing mental health during a pandemic fosters resilience and aids in the recovery process. By providing psychosocial support, promoting self-care strategies, and enhancing coping mechanisms, individuals and communities can better adapt to the challenges posed by the pandemic.

    To achieve global health goals, it is essential to integrate mental health into policies, healthcare systems, and public health strategies. This involves increasing investment in mental health services, training healthcare professionals in mental health care, raising awareness, and destigmatizing mental health conditions. By addressing mental health as a core component of global health, we can create a healthier and more resilient world, both during and beyond the pandemic.

    Read it on my Medium blogging account Here

  • My Journey as a Member of the UNAIDS Global Advisory Group

    My Journey as a Member of the UNAIDS Global Advisory Group

    Hey there! 🌟 I wanted to share some exciting and important news with you all. In May 2023, I was invited to join the UNAIDS Global Advisory Group on Monitoring the 30-80-60 Targets. Since then, I’ve had the privilege of serving as a member of this incredible team. As an HIV-positive gay activist from Pakistan, I know firsthand the challenges and stigma that come with living with HIV. This opportunity has been a powerful way for me to advocate for our community on a global stage.

    Why My Representation Matters:

    The 30-80-60 Targets are part of the 2021 Political Declaration on HIV and AIDS. These targets aim to prevent millions of new HIV infections and AIDS-related deaths by 2030. They specifically call for community-led organizations to deliver:

    1. 30% of testing and treatment services.

    2. 80% of HIV prevention services for high-risk populations.

    3. 60% of programs to support societal enablers, reducing stigma, punitive laws, and gender-based violence.

    Community-led organizations, like the ones I work with, play a critical role in achieving these targets. Our unique experiences, perspectives, and voices are essential in shaping effective strategies. We’re self-determined and autonomous, free from external influences, which allows us to truly represent and be accountable to our communities.

    My Role and Contributions:

    During our first meeting on May 10th, 2023, we discussed the development of a robust monitoring framework for these targets. We explored existing data collection and reporting mechanisms and identified opportunities to strengthen them. This is crucial because there’s currently no standardized system to track progress towards these targets.

    Serving on this advisory group has been a humbling and empowering experience. It’s a reminder that our voices matter and that we can drive meaningful change. By representing young HIV-positive gay individuals and sex workers from Pakistan and the EMRO region, I’m committed to ensuring our needs and challenges are addressed.

    As we move forward, our collaborative efforts will be instrumental in shaping a monitoring framework that drives positive change in the global fight against HIV. Together, we can make a difference and create a world where everyone has access to the care, support, and dignity they deserve.

    Thanks for reading, and stay tuned for more updates! 🌍❤️

    Read more about 2025 targets and 30-80-60 targets on UNAIDS site Here: https://crossroads.unaids.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/GAU-2024-Annex-1-En.pdf

  • Ali Raza Khan Joins UNAIDS Global Advisory Group on Monitoring the 30-80-60 Targets

    Ali Raza Khan Joins UNAIDS Global Advisory Group on Monitoring the 30-80-60 Targets

    Ali Raza Khan, an HIV-positive gay activist from Pakistan, has been invited to join the UNAIDS Global Advisory Group on Monitoring the 30-80-60 Targets. This esteemed group comprises global stakeholders dedicated to advancing the fight against HIV. Ali’s involvement marks a significant step towards ensuring the voices of young HIV-positive gay individuals and sex workers from Pakistan and the EMRO region are heard and represented in global HIV initiatives.

    Background on the 30-80-60 Targets:

    The 2021 Political Declaration on HIV and AIDS, adopted by United Nations Member States, set forth ambitious targets to be achieved by 2025. The goals are to prevent 3.6 million new HIV infections and 1.7 million AIDS-related deaths by 2030. Three specific targets emphasize the role of community-led organizations in delivering HIV-related services:

    1. 30 per cent of testing and treatment services, focusing on HIV testing, linkage to treatment, adherence, retention support, and treatment literacy.

    2. 80 per cent of HIV prevention services for populations at high risk of infection, including women within those populations.

    3. 60 per cent of programs supporting societal enablers to reduce stigma, discrimination, punitive laws, and gender-based violence.

    Community-led organizations are pivotal in the HIV response, reflecting the experiences, perspectives, and voices of their constituencies. These organizations operate independently of government, commercial, or donor influences, ensuring they are truly representative and accountable to their communities.

    Ali Raza Khan brings a wealth of experience and passion to the advisory group.

    As the founder of Pride Pakistan and an advocate for HIV-positive gay individuals and sex workers, Ali’s insights are invaluable. His participation underscores the importance of including marginalized voices in global health strategies. The advisory group aims to develop a robust monitoring framework for the 30-80-60 targets. This involves exploring existing data collection and reporting mechanisms used by community-led organizations and identifying opportunities to strengthen them. Ali’s involvement will ensure that the unique challenges and needs of key populations are considered in the framework. Ali’s membership in the advisory group highlights the recognition of the crucial role that young HIV-positive gay activists play in the global HIV response. His advocacy efforts will contribute to the development of effective strategies to achieve the 30-80-60 targets and improve the lives of those affected by HIV. Ali Raza Khan’s inclusion in the UNAIDS Global Advisory Group on Monitoring the 30-80-60 Targets is a testament to his dedication and leadership in the fight against HIV. His unique perspective and experience will be instrumental in shaping the future of HIV prevention, treatment, and support services. 🌍❤️

    Read more about 2025 targets and 30-80-60 targets on UNAIDS site Here: https://crossroads.unaids.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/GAU-2024-Annex-1-En.pdf

  • Living in Fear: The Struggles of LGBTQ+ Individuals in Pakistan

    Living in Fear: The Struggles of LGBTQ+ Individuals in Pakistan

    As an HIV-positive gay activist from Pakistan, my life has been a constant battle against societal norms and prejudices. My name is Ali Raza Khan, and I have faced numerous challenges simply for being who I am. Recently, I found myself in Islamabad, staying with my fellow colleague Nayab Ali, a transgender police officer and Victim Support Officer (VSO). I was running away from my pasts involving a forced marriage and threats of honor killing in Multan.

    A Safe Haven Turned Hostile
    Nayab and I had been staying together for several weeks, seeking solace and safety in each other’s company. However, our attempts to lead a normal life were often marred by hostile encounters with security and police officers. One such incident, which gained significant media attention, highlighted the dangers we face daily.

    The Incident at Ramna Police Station
    On the night of 23rd June before midnight Nayab Ali and myself was outside for the dinnder when we received the call by another transgender who was beaten by a restaurant employee. We both listened and helped the transgender to get help from police for which we visited the Ramna police station in Islamabad to deal with a case of that transgender to take forward. During our visit, a fellow police officer first passed derogatory remarks for us being queer on asking to stop he attempted to shoot us twice, in the presence of other officers who did nothing to intervene. We shared the video right after the incident online on twitter, expressing our fear and frustration at being trapped in the police station when advocating for queer rights. The incident potrays how easily it would be a for police officer to shoot and kill us and made up some false allegations of us being doing something wrong.

    As myself someone who has faced similar threats and violence back in my town and persuded to move to Islamabad expecting a safe space, This new experience resonated deeply with my past experiences back home but in a more worse way. I was going through a lot of anxiety during this tumultuous time, witnessing firsthand the blatant disregard for our safety and rights. The incident at the police station was not an isolated event but a reflection of the systemic discrimination and violence that LGBTQ+ individuals face in Pakistan
    Following the shooting attempt, a large crowd from the transgender community gathered outside the police station from the help of Nayab connections in Islamabad to protest. Despite their efforts, the officer who attempted to shot us was not arrested, and the SHO displayed aggression towards us and our supporters. This incident underscores the urgent need for systemic change and protection for LGBTQIA+ communities in Pakistan.

    The Daily Struggles of LGBTQ+ Individuals
    Living as an LGBTQ+ person in Pakistan means constantly navigating a landscape of fear, discrimination, and violence. From forced marriages to honor killings, the challenges we face are immense. Our encounters with law enforcement often exacerbate these issues, as we are met with hostility rather than protection.
    Sharing my story and experience is crucial in highlighting the harsh realities faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in Pakistan. By raising awareness and advocating for our rights, we hope to foster a more inclusive and equitable society where everyone can live without fear of persecution.

    By sharing these narratives, I aim to shed light on the struggles of LGBTQ+ individuals in Pakistan and advocate for meaningful change. Our stories are a testament to our resilience and determination to fight for our rights and dignity.

  • Pride in the Post-Pandemic World: A Youth LGBTQI+ Open Mic Session by The Youth PACT Organisation

    Pride in the Post-Pandemic World: A Youth LGBTQI+ Open Mic Session by The Youth PACT Organisation

    On June 18th, 2022, TheYouthPACT.org hosted an impactful “Youth LGBTQI+ Open Mic Session” titled “Pride in the Post-Pandemic World.” As a volunteer coordinator for the advocacy working group at TheYouthPACT.org, I, Ali Raza Khan from Pakistan, had the privilege of co-hosting this session alongside Paul Darrel Omenesis from the Philippines.

    The session commenced with an introduction to PACT, a vibrant coalition of 152 youth organizations dedicated to collaboratively and strategically addressing global HIV responses and ensuring the health, well-being, and human rights of all young people since 2013. Paul also outlined general guidelines for Zoom conversations to ensure a respectful and attentive environment. Following this, members of the organizing team, including myself, Jennifer Ball, and Moli Chen, were introduced.

    The core of the open mic session featured a diverse panel of speakers from prominent organizations working on LGBTQI+ issues across Asia and Africa. We heard from Ramil Andag of APCOM, Li Hao Cheng of PSA-Taiwan, Alexander Bernard of Youth for Youth Organization, Justin Chidozie from CHEVS, and Ram Dulip from YPEER Asia Pacific Network.

    My involvement in this session as an openly HIV-positive gay activist from Pakistan highlights my long-standing commitment to LGBTQI+ rights, not just within my country but globally. This event served as another example of my open work advocating for gay rights.

    The speakers shared invaluable insights into the challenges and advancements for the LGBTQI+ community in the post-pandemic world. Ramil Andag from APCOM discussed how COVID-19 exacerbated existing human rights challenges for LGBTQI+ communities, particularly those in the informal sector, leading to difficulties in accessing work, livelihoods, and even social protection programs. APCOM responded by advocating for LGBTQI+ inclusive COVID responses from organizations like the World Health Organization and supporting local organizations in migrating to digital advocacy spaces.

    Li Hao Cheng of PSA-Taiwan shared a more fortunate perspective, noting Taiwan’s progressive stance, including the legalization of same-sex marriage in 2019. However, he acknowledged that the pandemic did freeze some advocacy efforts due to the inability to hold physical pride events and a decrease in routine health check-ups for STDs. PSA-Taiwan adapted by organizing online events and promoting home delivery HIV tests.

    Justin Chidozie from CHEVS provided a stark reality of the situation in Nigeria, where discriminatory laws like the Same-Sex Marriage Prohibition Act of 2014 lead to severe consequences for LGBTQI+ individuals, including up to 14 years imprisonment for same-sex public displays. Despite this, CHEVS is actively working to empower young LGBTQI+ people by building their collective power and redefining empowerment. A notable initiative is their “Tech for Pride” project, aiming to onboard LGBTQI+ individuals into the tech ecosystem, providing skills in web development, data analysis, and product design, enabling them to work remotely and overcome employment discrimination. CHEVS also launched a mental health program during the pandemic to address the increased instances of mental health challenges and homelessness among LGBTQI+ individuals.

    Ram Dulip from YPEER Asia Pacific Network shared a unique perspective from Sri Lanka. While acknowledging the challenges posed by the country’s economic crisis, Ram highlighted how the pandemic, paradoxically, led to increased visibility and acceptance for the LGBTQI+ community through social media engagement. However, the transgender community has faced significant challenges due to the inability to access hormone treatments amidst the crisis.

    Alexander Bernard of Youth for Youth Organization in the Philippines highlighted the lack of SRHR service delivery for LGBTQI+ youth during the pandemic, particularly for those cast out by their families. His organization provided essential aid and shifted to digital platforms for information dissemination and capacity building, finding it effective in reaching young people who previously couldn’t attend physical events.

    The session concluded with powerful imparting messages for young LGBTQI+ individuals. Ramil Andag emphasized the importance of continuing to take space, demanding meaningful participation, and asserting basic human rights, not special rights. Ram Dulip encouraged the community to move beyond seeking sympathy and instead demonstrate their capabilities and contributions to society. Alexander Bernard’s powerful motto, “Nothing about us without us,” resonated, urging the community to claim their rightful space and be heard. Justin Chidozie stressed the importance of meaningful engagement coupled with responsibility, encouraging self-empowerment and acquiring technical expertise to engage with systems and governments effectively. Finally, Li Hao Cheng’s message to “be like water” encouraged mindfulness, treating others with love, and broadening horizons to foster a more heartwarming and loving community.

    This open mic session truly showcased the resilience, innovation, and unwavering spirit of the youth LGBTQI+ community and their allies in navigating the complexities of a post-pandemic world. It was a testament to the ongoing fight for equality and inclusion, demonstrating that even in challenging times, the voices of advocacy and hope continue to rise.

    Watch the complete video on TheYouthPACT.org facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/theyouthpact/videos/563724965374023

  • World AIDS Day 2021 an interview with Ali Raza Khan : HIV HERO Award Laureate 2021

    World AIDS Day 2021 an interview with Ali Raza Khan : HIV HERO Award Laureate 2021

    HIV HERO

    Supported by APCOM Community Partner – APN+

    Ali Raza Khan

    Pakistan

    My name is Ali Raza Khan and I’m a 28-year-old PLHIV activist working for my community. I live in Multan, a small but culturally rich town of Pakistan also known as the City of Saints. I come from a poor family living in the red-light area of the town that led me to adopt risky behaviors without protection. I grew up facing stigma and discrimination because of my identity, status and being from a minority group. Because of my status and identity, I faced bad times when trying to access health services or for exercising my rights. Facing and dealing with these bad times encouraged me to work for my community that is still suffering around Pakistan. I always look for opportunities to learn, catch positive skills and knowledge from other expert people, or try to learn new things on my own. I’m doing all this to empower other PLHIVs so that that they can also raise voices for their health and rights collectively.

    Please briefly let us know about your work

    I started working for HIV awareness and prevention in 2015 from my university days as volunteer of HYPE national youth group of Rutgers in Pakistan. I continued my volunteer work for the community along with different organizations including FDI, Aahung, ACT, ISYD, YAN, KSS and APLHIV. I started my full-time job for PLHIV withTrans Welfare Organization, a CBO working for HIV among the TG community. TWOCBO provided me the opportunity to speak about the PLHIV community. Later, I joined Wasaib Sanwaro, a CBO working for MSM and amplified my efforts by representing PLHIVs at international platforms. I started my own initiative “Hi Voices” due to the lack of any dedicated platform for the empowerment of YPLHIVs and because many PLHIVs lack the required skills and knowledge to raise their voices. Currently, at national level, I’m organizing capacity building training for YPLHIVs under the Young Positive People of Pakistan Program. Apart from these efforts I’m empowering PLHIVs at the regional and global level with The PACT and YPEER. I’m also trying to influence stakeholders and policy making via Youth LEAD and as a member of Communities Delegation to the board of The Global Fund.

    What one achievement you’ve accomplished that you’re most proud of

    I’m proud of training other PLHIVs who wanted to raise their voices. One of our alumni participated in our capacity building training and was volunteering in our campaigns all the time. He contacted me and said he learned a lot from my organization and is going to start a platform related to PLHIVs issues. It was the moment when I felt that I may be succeeding in my mission to empower other PLHIVs. I am proud of him and his work because I dedicated my time to PLHIVs with the only one objective of empowering them.

    What do you find most challenging about your work

    Working for PLHIVs in a conservative humanitarian setting of Pakistan was most challenging. It is still challenging because a PLHIV activist must face multiple obstructions every day. One does not only struggle with the issues that he or she is working for, but also struggles with society, norms, policies and opposition that stops others from accessing and practicing their basic health and rights. These things make my efforts and work more challenging in a conservative humanitarian setting of Pakistan.

    What do you do to recharge your battery

    I connect with people from the PLHIV community and spend time with them. I share and talk with people who are working for a similar cause. I get re-energized when I work for the PLHIV community in a way that saves their life. I listen to the stories of people how they were able to bring some positive change in the lives of PLHIVs. I try to make them happy and smile. A smile and happiness on their faces brings smile on my face too.

    What is your vulnerability and how do you overcome it

    I sometimes indulge into things related to the PLHIV community and I forget to make sufficient time available for myself and my family. I try to overcome this be ensuring specific days and specific times dedicated to my family and community work. Also scheduling my work helps me overcome this issue.

    What was your reaction to being named one of the honourees for the HIV Hero category

    I felt happy to be nominated for the HIV HERO award. I see this as an appreciation and encouragement to continue my work for the community, irrespective of how harsh the conditions on the ground are. I felt excited about this award because there are very few people and platforms to support and appreciate the work of PLHIVs as HERO Award is doing.

    Despite the fact that the COVID-19 is still with us, what is a message that you would like to share with the communities in the Asia Pacific

    We learned a lot from the COVID-19 crisis, including supporting each other and the marginalized communities. Together we learned how to fight these pandemics and find the cure and access to treatment for all, irrespective of power gaps.  My message to all the communities in Asia and the Pacific is to work collectively to end discrimination associated with people affected by diseases. 

    Read more on Asia Pacific Coalition of Men Having Sex with Men APCOM

    Facebook Page Here

    https://www.facebook.com/apcom.org/posts/an-interview-with-ali-raza-khan-the-heroawards2021-hiv-hero-honourees-from-pakis/6468091943265287

    Website Here

    HERO Awards 2021 Community Partners APN+, APTN and ILGA Asia Unveil much anticipated honourees list
  • Eamonn Murphy’s Testimony for Ali Raza Khan

    Eamonn Murphy’s Testimony for Ali Raza Khan

    In a heartfelt testimony during a UN high-level meeting debrief for young people living with HIV and young key populations, Eamonn Murphy, UNAIDS Director for Regional Support Teams for Asia Pacific and Eastern Europe and Central Asia regions, extended his appreciation for Ali Raza Khan’s remarkable activism.

    Ali Raza Khan, a HIV positive gay activist, has dedicated his life to advocating for the rights of men having sex with men, gay people, sex workers, and other HIV key populations in Pakistan and globally. His tireless efforts have not gone unnoticed, earning him the respect and admiration of leaders and organizations worldwide.

    “People like Ali Raza Khan who made statements in this global momentum that started at country and built up by putting his statements and voices out there so it’s really important,” Murphy remarked. These words encapsulate the essence of Khan’s contribution to the global fight against HIV and the broader struggle for human rights.

    Ali Raza Khan’s activism is not just about raising awareness; it’s about creating a platform for the voiceless and ensuring that the challenges faced by HIV key populations are brought to the forefront of global discussions. His work highlights the intersection of health, human rights, and social justice, making him a pivotal figure in the movement.

    Through his own initiatives and support of Youth LEAD Asia Pacific YKP network, YPlus Global, and collaborations with the UNAIDS office, Khan continues to push for systemic change and equitable treatment for marginalized communities. His unwavering commitment and impactful actions inspire many to join the fight for a world where every individual, regardless of their HIV status or social identity, can live with dignity and respect.

    Regional Director UNAIDS Appreciating Ali Raza Khan efforts of raising Voices for people living with HIV and young key populations including men having sex with men and gays

    This testimony by Eamonn Murphy stands as a testament to Ali Raza Khan’s extraordinary work and the vital role he plays in the ongoing struggle for HIV awareness and rights advocacy. His journey is a powerful reminder of the difference one person can make in the face of adversity, and his voice remains a beacon of hope and resilience for many.

    Watch the whole sesssion online Youth Lead Asia Pacific YKP facebook page or UNAIDS youtube channel below

  • From Pakistan to The Youth PACT: Ali Raza Khan Joined the Global Movement

    From Pakistan to The Youth PACT: Ali Raza Khan Joined the Global Movement

    Good to have you talk to us, and welcome to The PACT interview series: can you tell us about yourself, maybe the ones we do not know yet.

    My name is Ali Raza Khan, a young person living with HIV community member working for sexual and gender minorities and people living with HIV and gay in my local community and for gay and HIV positive people around the globe. I’m simple introvert guy who speaks less but shows his worth via my actions and work. I have been working as a volunteer, part time or full time for HIV and AIDS prevention since 2015 with multiple local, national, regional and international organisations including local community based organisations, Regional Networks of key populations and Communities Delegation to the Global Fund Board. Currently, I’m leading an organisation called Pride Pakistan and Institute of HIV Education and Research which is working for education of HIV and AIDS among young key vulnerable populations.

    Why are you passionate about HIV, SRHR ? How did the passion spring up?

    I started working for HIV awareness in 2015 as a volunteer. After knowing my positive status, I devoted myself for betterment of young people living with HIV in my community. The motivation to work for my community came from my life experiences in conservative society of Pakistan.
    I had faced what a young people living with HIV and sex workers had to face in accessing and practicing their health and rights. I have raised voice for my gay and HIV positive community fellows that was suffering due to negligence of health system towards people living with HIV from gay and sex workers community.
    I have seen young community members in front of me losing their life due to AIDS. I believe many of such lives can be saved with little more efforts and improvements. There are lots of things which needs to be improved to prevent our future generations from HIV epidemic. That is why I want to be part of this life force so that I can make my work more impactful via this platform.

    Why did you join The PACT?

    I joined The PACT to work for my global young gay and HIV positive community beyond borders, language, cultures, and any other differences just for this one cause of ending new HIV and AIDS infection by 2030.

    A portrait of Ali Raza Khan

    What motivates you to keep pushing and working for the benefit of young people?

    The small appreciations from my community. The words of appreciation for saving one’s life or improving lives or feedback from community after sharing information related to sexual, reproductive health and rights. I myself face these community issues everyday, and as long as they are here they push me to continue.

    What are your hopes for the future of the youth HIV movement?

    I want to see young gay and HIV positive people raise their voices without any fear of discrimination or stigma. I want to see a day where they will not only work for their own selves but for other vulnerable people as well, becoming ideals for others that can follow them in future.

    What would be your message to young people all over the world working to end AIDS by 2030?

    Stay strong, work together to make your voices heard at each and every level of the society.

    Read more on The Youth PACT website here

    From Pakistan to The PACT: Ali Raza Khan on Joining this Global Movement

    And on The Youth PACT Facebook here

    https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1183674622090697