Annual Report 2012 of Bondhu Social Welfare Society Bangladesh.

ANNUAL REPORT 2012: Community Prosody :: Service and Beyond
Published by
Bandhu Social Welfare Society 99 Kakrail, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh Phone: +88 02 9339898, 9356868, 8356041 E-mail: shale@bandhu-bd.org URL:www.bandhu-bd.org
Published on July, 2013
Editor Shale Ahmed Coordinator Shahidul Alam ASM Rahmat Ullah Bhuiyan Documentation Team Mamunur Rashid ASM Rahmat Ullah Bhuiyan Farhana Zarif Kanta AKM Mahbubul Islam Tanvir Joha Jamilur Rahman Mizanur Rahman Premangshu Shekhar Sarker
Photographs BSWS Media Center Design & Print Color Horizon, Dhaka, Bangladesh www.colorhorizon.com.bd
Beginning of an Expedition
BSWS recognizes technical and financial support from Government of Bangladesh, The Global Fund, ICDDR,B, USAID/FHI360, UNAIDS, Manushar Jonno Foundation, PSI Nepal, amfAR, LLH, and Swedish SIDA/RFSU for accomplishing its current programmes.
Bandhu Social Welfare Society (BSWS) began its expedition to address the violence and discrimination directed at people just because they are sexual minority populations. BSWS is promise bound to adhere to basic human rights in order to ensure a fair and just life for these sexual minorities and that could be termed as expedition for the tormented people.
iii
Key Personnel
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Shale Ahmed
SENIOR TEAM
Our Mission and Vission | Key Personnel
Mr. Shahidul Alam, Manager Finance & Administration Mr. Nazrul Islam Faisal, Team leader, Programme Mr. Saidul Islam Khan Majlish, Deputy Manager Finance Mr. ASM Rahmat Ullah Bhuiyan, Deputy Programme Manager Mr. Mizanur Rahman, Asst. Manager, Monitoring & Evaluation Mr. Mahbubul Islam Tanvir, Programme Specialist Mr. Anwar Hussein, Programme Specialist Mr. Shahin Al Mamun, Project Coordinator Mr. Joha Jamilur Rahman, Training Specialist Ms. Farhana Zarif Kanta, Asst. Manager,
iv
BSWS Technical Advisory Committee
BSWS
Technical Advisory Committee consists of representatives from technical organizations; health services providers, government, artist and lawyers organization The Technical Advisory Committee provides advice to BSWS in order to achieve the following objectives: a. To increase BSWS institutional and technical capacity to provide effective and appropriate services in the field of sexual and reproductive health promotion amongst MSM and Hijra/TG and their partners. b. To share skills, knowledge and information that will enable greater effectiveness for BSWS to achieve its goals in the field of sexual and reproductive health. c. To advocate for and on behalf of BSWS at local, regional and international level. The present members include; Dr. Ubaidur Rob Ms. Sara Hossain Dr. ASM Amanullah Dhiraj Kumar Nath Dr. Khairul Islam Dr. Shohael Mahmud Arafat Mr. Shakiul Millat Morshad Ms. Sara Zaker Dr. Mahtab Khanam Country Representative, Population Council Barrister at Law, Dr. Kamal Hessian & Associates Professor, Department of Sociology, Dhaka University Former Secretary and Staff Consultant of Asian Development Bank Country Representative, WaterAID Bangladesh Associate Professor, BSMMU Executive Director, Shishuk Director, Asiatic Counseling Physiologist, Dhaka University
BSWS Technical Advisory Committee
Acronyms
AIDS ASK BCC BH BMSF BPC BSWS DIC DLLG EKN EU FGD FHI GO GoB HIV HR HR-D ICDDR, B IEC INGO MJF MSM MSW NASP NFI NGO ODPUP PFT SGM STD/STI SWH TG UN UNAIDS UNFPA UNICEF VCT VSOB Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome Ain-o-Salish Kendra Behavioral Changes Communication Badhai Hijras Bangladesh Manobadhikar Sangbadik Forum Bangladesh Penal Code BANDHU SOCIAL WELFARE SOCIETY Drop in Center District Level Lawyer Group Embassy of the Kingdom of Netherlands European Union Focus Group Discussion Family Health International Government Organisations Government of Bangladesh Human Immune Virus Human Rights Human Rights Day International Center for Diarrhoea Diseases & Research, Bangladesh Information, Education & Communication International Non-government Organization Manusher Jonno Foundation Male having sex with Male Male Sex Workers National AIDS / STD Program Naz Foundation International Non-Government Organization Organization of Development Program for Under Privileged Project Facilitation Team Social Group Meeting Sexually Transmitted Diseases/Infection Sex Worker Hijras Trans Gender United Nations United Nations Program on HIV/AIDS United Nations Population Fund United Nations for International Children Fund Voluntary Counseling and Testing Voluntary Services Overseas-Bangladesh
Acronyms
vi
Message from the Chairperson & Executive Director

Dear Supporter and Friends,
2012
marked another momentous year for BSWS as it moved further towards ensuring its position as a focal point for MSM and Hijra/TGs humanitarian and policy matters. We have completed the 1st year of our 3rd Strategy Planning which we have produced for the period of 2012-2016. Though the idea behind the creation of BSWS has not changed over the years, the issues and the way we work have undergone major and some vital changes. These changes reflect the fact that this current world is very different from the world of 1996. Even though the challenges are numerous and the resources are much too limited, BSWS has been able to make a difference to its members and the community it has been working with. The quality of our work, interventions, and representation at national and international level reflects the collective knowledge and know-how of our members. But without the highly professional and committed staff, we would not have been able to make such a difference. This year has been a time of re-tooling, re-envisioning and expansion for BSWS as we continue to play a vital role in human rights advocacy. Here are some highlights from this past year: 1. We are especially proud to announce that despite of several limitations we have been able to meet over 80% of target activities as per operational plan of 2012.
2. With new staff structure and dedicated support from our funding agencies BSWS has strengthened and deepened its regional program structure.
4. We are pleased with the dedication of our many generous institutional funding agencies. Core supporters of BSWS helped the organization to create awareness of and response to systematic human rights violation against people on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity, sexual practice or expressions from the margins of the human rights movements more solidly in to the mainstream. We, truly thank all of you for supporting a global, progressive vision for Sexual Minority populations everywhere. We have so much we can and must do to ensure that the promise of human rights extends to every individual, regardless of their sexuality, gender, or HIV status. There is no doubt that the momentum of change is with us, as you will see in the following pages. We can keep it going with your active support in future too. We are expressing our heartfelt thanks to our honorable Executive Committee Members, staffs, volunteers, strategic partners and last but not least the community peoples for their continuous supports towards achieving the organization goals. Looking forward to another exiting year!
Anisul Islam Hero

Chairperson
Shale Ahmed
Executive Director
vii
Message from the Chairperson & Executive Director
3. We carried a number of projects to completion, while continuing to provide ongoing emergency responses, training and capacity building for partners and engaging in documentation to support longer-term advocacy goals.
Table of Contents
Mission & Vision Key Personnel BSWS Technical Advisory Committee Acronyms Message from the Chairman & Executive Director BSWS: A Resolute Journey Service: Key to Success Advocacy: Pillar to Achievement Research: Moving Forward Strategically Capacity Development: Process of Improvement Community Participation: Hope of Revival BSWS: Looking Abroad BSWS: A Glimpse of the Voyage Key Challenges The Way Forward Stories of Change in Life & Living Case Study of Computer Learning Financial Statement Legal Status of the Organization iv iv v vi vii 9 21 27 41 49 53 59 65 71 72 73 79 81 84 84
Table of Contents
viii
Where We Work
Bandhu Social Welfare Society has marked the year 2012 with a reinforced commitment to move further with its services towards the sexual minorities, who thrive for achieving their rights, which is not that easy, but that could not deter BSWS in moving forward with zeal & courage...
A Snapshot of 2012
Social Welfare Society (BSWS) implements its activities according to the 5 year Strategy Plan and evaluates the yearly performance. After reviewing the previous plan of 2007-2011, BSWS shaped the new strategy plan for 2012-2016. An action plan was also developed for 2012 on the basis of newly developed Strategic Plan. BSWS reviewed its previous plan & adopted a new action plan for 2013 at the end of the year 2012. Service delivery, Advocacy & Social Mobilization, capacity development initiatives for its staff and other partners, and also skills development of the project beneficiaries along with livelihood development programs, Community participation and Participation in the strategic meetings abroad, Important day celebrations through community participation, and regular publications of the BCC & IEC materials, Quarterly newsletter and material/modules development were the key interventions of BSWS during the 2012, which could bring in remarkable progress in its activities & interventions.
Bandhu
PASSAGE TO EMPOWERMENT:
AN EPILOGUE ON STRUGGLES OF SEXUAL MINORITIES TOWARDS LIVELIHOOD AND HUMAN RIGHTS

Sexual minority population in South Asia and Bangladesh lead a life of struggle with human rights least recognized by the mainstream of the society and the government along with the policy makers. A project entitled "Upholding human rights of males who have sex with males (MSM): An integrated approach for STIs/HIV intervention" and "Addressing the impact of socio-cultural and economic impediments of Sexual Minorities in Bangladesh" has been implemented amidst the conflict ridden patriarchal social environment in Bangladesh. Bandhu Social Welfare Society (BSWS) could make an epoch making progress, which was instrumental in supporting Sexual Minority community to achieve their social, economic & political rights since 2006 through the project. The project could conclude its second phase in the year 2012 with the resources & support provided by the Manusher Jonno Foundation (MJF). This review document is an attempt to explore the nuances of empowerment; social, economic and political achieved by the sexual minority community and the efforts by BSWS in order to ensure a mainstreaming model for the community following a Rights Based Approach (RBA). BSWS practiced diverse developmental models and had sought to use RBA as an effective model to work on empowerment and rights generation for the sexual minority community in the country. So this review has also attempted to qualify the implications and effectiveness of the RBA as a social development approach. The document has incorporated the good practices of the project, which had been gathered through the internal assessment, which had commenced in December 2012 and the whole task was to evaluate the effectiveness of Right Based Approach since 2008-2012. BSWS has achieved success in mobilizing the community in creating acceptance of sexual minority populations in the society;, mobilized mainstream communities on SRHR of the minority community; raised awareness in schools, madrasas and universities; trained the sexual minorities to create livelihood options for themselves; supported building of relationship with diverse social institutions, elected bodies, lawyers and journalist to create a social safe net;
11
BSWS a Resolute Journey
introduced participatory functional literacy and empowerment process for the sexual minorities; and initiated nationwide advocacy campaigns to influence social mind set, policy reforms and institutional approaches towards the minority community thereby bringing significant reduction in stigma and discrimination. The efforts of the organization have been significantly perceived in the life of the community in 6 districts namely Dhaka, Chittagong, Sylhet, Rajbari, Mymensingh and Comilla. While BSWS has ensured a political sensitivity on SRHR addressing the ailments affecting the community by sensitizing and advocating with politicians, CSOs and power institutions at the district and the country level, there has been a concerted effort to empower the community to meet the advocacy challenges at various levels- from community to the national legal empowerment process. While legislative reformation includes the toughest challenge to the movement and the advocacy campaigns because of the democratic process involved in legislation and also the over power centered patriarchal social structure influencing public opinion in the country, BSWS has taken social, economic and psychological support & empowerment process of the community to the grounds. In its due course, BSWS has indeed emerged as the advocacy face of the organization and the rights based approach has supported in contouring the efforts to a position of wider public acceptance. Analysis of the activities and field observations highly recommended that the works of the project need replications in a wider arena and is very much capable of bringing change in the lives of sexual minority population of Bangladesh to uphold their Human Rights. BSWS also felt to extend their constitution to carry out policy advocacy, empowerment of sexual minorities, build institutional relationship and carry out media fellowship and community mobilization. It is further recommended, BSWS could bring itself out of the framework of an organization to assume the corollaries of a program in its own terms. It could effectively implement over 2 phases of the project in 6 years, and also created the sound methodologies and gained strength to establish rights as the development parameter for one of the most disadvantaged and discriminated citizens of the country. The journey of BSWS could have been described as "just begun" considering the patriarchal social structure where male masculinity and gender inequalities are promoted and preserved under the social institutions and power structures are strong. The efforts of the results of sincerity and as rights need reflection in practice, while the following are strategic suggestions in putting the Rights First:

Institutionalization of functional literacy, basic training and rights education Spreading out to the horizon to address the community across Bangladesh Identify the advocacy issues related to rights and adopt a comprehensive planning to achieve those issues involving other actors More involvement of sexual minority populations at all levels need to be ensured Planning of a comprehensive initiatives regarding effective livelihood option is a requirement. Enhancement of more institutional involvement.

In this regard the evidences from the field and the reports suggest the following activities for the next 3-5 years of time frame, if not more, in order to address the tougher challenges ahead: 1. Continue the capacity building of the sexual minorities to achieve functional literacy and to learn more about human rights entitlement to claim their own rights.
2. Provide proper information about sexual reproductive health and sexuality education among the students of schools, colleges and universities. 3. Necessary steps need to be taken to empower communities to address the issues of sexual reproductive health and to promote the rights of sexual minorities.
12
4. Necessary activities to be taken to promote institutional engagement and recognition of the sexual minorities' issues and at the same time, accept the information of sexual reproductive health appropriately. 5. Engage elected representatives at all levels, lawyers and journalists to create a supporting force for policy change and social mobilization. 6. Provide sexual minority populations with appropriate training to accept alternative livelihood with their consent. 7. Continue activities of community awareness, cultural activities and media mobilization to create a mass support that would help to change the attitudes towards sexuality and to reduce stigma and discrimination.
REVIEW THE STRATEGY PLAN

BSWS implements its activities according to the 5 year Strategy Plan and evaluates the yearly performance. After reviewing the previous plan of 2007-2011, BSWS shaped the new strategy plan for 2012-2016. An action plan was also developed for 2012 on the basis of newly developed Strategic Plan. BSWS reviewed its previous plan & adopted a new action plan for 2013 at the end of the year 2012. A two day long Operational Planning Workshop was held during 29-30 December, 2012 in order to adopt a new action plan. Review of the achievements & learning of the Strategy Plan 2012-2016 activations during the year 2012 on the basis of the goals earmarked in the Strategic Plan and the operational plan 2013 was shaped up during the Planning Workshop. Numbers of recommendations were adopted to develop a new plan for 2013.
The recommendations include:

Redesigning the outreach services e.g. pocket based services, home based services & services through contact over the mobile phones. Requirement of conducting different studies / assessment on stigma & discrimination, under age MSM, human rights violation of MSM/TG & reinfection of STI etc were emphasized. Need to work effectively for vocational training receivers. Arrange more capacity building training at the national and international level.

Strengthening the organizational sustainability through introducing Revolving Loan. Three more departments should be initiated e.g. Information & Public Relations; Research & Development and Internal Audit. A core M & E personnel is required and need to integrate with the program. Need to create a new position of Deputy Executive Director for smooth running of the programs.
13
More meeting/orientation/workshop required to be conducted with the editor and sub editor level of both print & electronics media.
MEDIA FELLOWSHIP ON SEXUAL MINORITY POPULATION IN BANGLADESH

Media fellowship has been crafted by development organizations in many countries as an effective policy influencing tool to make issues more obvious & acceptable to general audience and policymakers. The Newspapers and television channels around the world have raised public awareness on important issues by consistently highlighting HIV/AIDS, gender violence and many other pressing issues around the world. By doing so, media fellowships have been successfully utilized in order to impact on governance institutions and policies. In the context of Bangladesh, many international and national organizations have offered media fellowships to involve journalists more on a specific issue, where media gives little or no attention for various reasons. The sexual minority populations are grossly ignored by the media in general, partly because of stigma and lack of clear understanding among the journalists about these populations. It is evident that these groups need protection of their confidentiality and seek equal status like other human being in the society, while reporting on them. BSWS could create a very positive response in 2011 to build a bridge between the sexually minority groups and the print media in order to portray better understanding between the two and create positive attitude towards these minority population from the core of the hearts of the journalists'. BSWS created provision and offer fellowship among electronic media and in coordination with UNAIDS Bangladesh selected six individuals associated with NTV, RTV, Channel I, Diganta TV, Bangla Vision and Channel 24 through a continuous effort in working with media in 2012. The six Media Fellows were - Senior Staff Correspondent of Channel I Zannatul Bakiya Keka, Senior Reporter of RTV Mr. Bayezid Ahamed, Senior Reporter of Diganta Television Mr. Mohammad Imran Hossain Ansary, Staff Correspondent of NTV Mr. Arafat Ali Siddique, Staff Reporter of Bangla Vision Mr. Dipon Dewan and Staff Reporter of Channel 24 Maksud-Un-Nabi. The program continued for about six months and during the period BSWS constantly worked with the fellow friends, which led them to produce very productive and positive television reports addressing different aspect of Sexual Minority Populations in Bangladesh. All of their reports were aired during the International Human Rights day 2012. They are also providing support in broadcasting news and information regarding sexual minority as a follow up action. They also are working as 'PEER' to the other TV journalists in the country.
14
AWARD FOR "AMRA KI ETOI BHINNO"

The documentary film "Amra Ki Etoi Bhinno" (Are we so different) produced by BSWS was awarded as The Best Documentary Short Film in Kashish Mumbai International Queer Film Festival 2012. The Film depicted the Bangladeshi Hijra, Gay and Bisexual community by titling "Amra Ki Etoi Bhinno: Are We So Different" was awarded as the Best Documentary Short Film from the India's biggest queer film festival, which was the 3rd Mumbai International Queer Film Festival, held during May 23-27, 2012 at the Cinemax Versova, Andheri West and during May 2426, 2012 at Alliance Franaise de Bombay, Marine Lines, Kashish. "Amra Ki Etoi Bhinno: Are We So Different", the film talks about how different people have unique experiences of coping and surviving in Bangladesh, often ruled by strict masculinity and patriarchic ideals. The film comprised of the stories of those who challenge these structures and notions, and they expressed their feelings by themselves. On behalf of the Jury Board the Internationally famous Film Critic and Writer Mayank Shekhar, while commenting about the film said that, "It's a phenomenal sensitive document on Hijra and Bisexual/Gay community of Bangladesh, and this film speaks from the heart and reveals stories of sheer courage and deep hurt. It's a bold account on men and transgender finding for space in completely patriarchic cultures where we forgot to celebrate the differences between us and that would make us all so special in our own ways. To watch the shorter version of the film you may log in to YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/tegproduction
HIJRA CONFERENCE IN CHITTAGONG

Chittagong City Corporation (CCC) Mayor M Manzur Alam during his address requested the Government and NGOs to come forward to ensure leading a healthy and dignified life for the hijra community. He said hijras are human being as like any other individuals in the society. We need to ensure their entitled rights. The CCC Mayor reassure to provide Birth Certificate, Heath Card for free medical services, begin night school for education and set up low rented garments factory and Hijra Home for dwelling, and also to create scope of Employment with the assistance of the NGOs involved in order to fulfill this objective and to develop a better life for the hijras. The CCC Mayor mentioned with joy that the first ever Hijra Conference in Bangladesh is being held at the Theatre Institute of Chittagong. The conference was organized by CCC with the assistance of Bandhu Social Welfare Society and Nongor Samaj Unnayan Sangstha. The conference was presided by CCC Social Welfare and Community Centre Standing Committee President Md Hasan Murad. CCC Chief Executive Officer Anwara Begum, Counselor Niaz Md. Khan, Secretary Samsuzzoha, Director-Rights of Manusher Jonno Foundation and on the other hand Rina Roy and Australian Representative Katy Brown was also amongst the special guest speaker. Some important speeches
15
The first ever Hijra Conference was held at Chittagong on 13 June 2012. The Chief Guest of the Conference and the Mayor of the Chittagong City Corporation (CCC) Mr. M. Manzur Alam vouched by saying that "I am beside you. Today you are warmly incorporated in the City Corporation family"
were delivered by the Manager-Rights of Manusher Jonno Foundation Mohua Liya Falia, Team Leader HASAB Syeda Selina Pervin, and Deputy Manager-Program ASM Rahmat Ullah Bhuiyan. Executive Director of Nongor ASM Jamal Udddin Rana delivered the welcome speech and vote of thanks was delivered by Umme Farhana Zarif Kanta. Hijra Leaders Nasu Hijra, Falguni Hijra, Kazol Hijra, Shanu Hijra, Jhorna Hijra joined the conference along with another 200 hijras. In the conference, Payel Hijra presented the key note paper, which reflected the life style, statistics about them, rights, development and solution of various problems of the community. She mentioned that the human rights for the marginalized people including the Hijras are far from reality. They don't have any recognition and do not get any legal support from the state, but the principles of human rights ensure all citizens about their rights. Joint initiatives from the government, non-government organizations and business institutions is required in developing the real life style of the Hijra population and also dissemination on social responsibilities is also expected from them. She welcomed the CCC Mayor for his initiatives and also expressed her gratitude for recognizing the community with a bold voice. CCC Mayor while addressing as the chief guest said that, we want to implement beneficial and public welfare initiatives for the welfare of neglected marginalized population. The Hijra conference organized to enlighten the objective. He said, any courageous initiative can be implemented through planned endeavor and willpower in favor of the neglected, assailed and deprived human being. He thanked Bangladesh Government to allocate taka 15 core for marginalized population in the national budget for the first time in the history. He requested the government to allocate some more amounts for the marginalized population including Hijras in Chittagong. Mayor further said, CCC allocated 4 public toilets on a primary and priority basis on lease hold to the Hijra community to create employment opportunity and financial benefits and the allocation could be increased further if the community shows increased interest. He also mentioned that there will be continuous efforts in order to help them in staying away from collecting money from masses, going through ill-words and negligence towards to them and to bring them in stable life. Along with this, he asked the CCC Chief Executive Officer to invite Hijra representatives in any occasion/program of the CCC.
16
UNIVERSAL PERIODIC REVIEW (UPR)

The Universal Periodic Review (UPR) is a new and unique mechanism of the Human Rights Council (HRC) aiming at improving the human rights situation on the basis of the unanimity of each of the 193 United Nations (UN) Member States. Review in every 4 years. The result of each review is reflected in an "outcome report" listing the recommendations and the State under Review (SuR) will have to implement before the next review. Bangladesh was first reviewed under the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) in February 2009. The report covers the period of March 2009-September 2012, and refers to continuities of law and practice impacting on human rights, with a focus on incidents and trends. In this first cycle of UPR, Bangladesh said that the country has 'strong traditional and cultural values' and homosexuality is not an 'acceptable norm' and that recommendations regarding this issue were "out of context". The rights of sexual minorities have not been addressed by the NHRC, nor was it reflected either in the Country Report or in the Civil Society Report. A Thematic Report was submitted by Sexual Rights Initiative (a coalition including Mulabi - Latin American Space for Sexualities and Rights; Action Canada for Population and Development and Creating Resources for Empowerment and Action-India and others). In 2009, BSWS missed the opportunity to present the voice of sexual minority in the UPR Mechanism, which enthusiastically intents the organization to involve in the process and incorporate the sexual minority issues in the report of second cycle UPR. Membership of Human Rights Forum-Bangladesh, a coalition of 19 human rights and development organizations formed to prepare stakeholders' report/ shadow under the UPR created the opportunity to include LGBTI/ Sexual Minority Issues in UPR. BSWS initiated the process to become member of the Forum and as new member to contribute in the stakeholder report through participating different workshop related to UPR. As a result of BSWS constant advocacy issues around sexual minority population were incorporated in the UPR second cycle in 2013 National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and Human Rights Forum-Bangladesh (HRF-B) produced two separate reports in second Cycle of UPR in the Sexual Minority issues, part of which is given below:
Sexual Minority Issue (part) in HRF-B Report

(58. Rights of gender and sexual minorities) About the UPR recommendations 27, Government representatives reportedly stated those were "out of context". In July 2011 the Government voted against UN resolution 17/19 (http://arcinternational.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/HRC-Res-17-191.pdf) proposing a study on discrimination against sexual minorities. In the contrary to their denials, the Government has taken practical steps recognizing such minorities by receiving and disbursing funds for MSM, and by including Hijras in the voter list, providing NIDs and including an 'other' option for 'sex' in the passport form. In general however, gender and sexual minorities lack legal recognition and protection and face social marginalization. They are being harassed by the use of section 377 of the Penal Code and section 54 and 55 of CrPC. Recommendations Made in the Report so far
Acknowledge existence of sexual and gender minorities and incorporate the issue in relevant Policies/Plans. De-criminalize consensual adult same-sex activities by abolishing section 377 of the Penal Code. Incorporate sex education in the national curriculum, and sensitize relevant agencies on sexuality/gender issues.0
17
LGBT Issue (part) in NHRC Report

(2.7.5 Other Minorities) Excluded groups (including dalits and transgender) remain some of the poorest people in Bangladesh and face marginalization and discrimination. In addition, the NHRC notes that the GoB did not accept recommendations with respect to sexual minorities. The NHRC understands the need for the law to be in harmony with the cultural and social mores of the people. Nevertheless, the NHRC believes that it is now time to ensure that all groups, including those who are transgender, intersex or a sexual minority, are protected from discrimination. [http://www.nhrc.org.bd/] Recommendation in NHRC Report
Take steps to protect excluded groups (including dalits, transgender, and sexual minority groups) from discrimination.
COMPREHENSIVE RESPONSES HIV & AIDS:
A NATIONAL SOLIDARITY
National AIDS/STD Program (NASP) of Bangladesh organized a 2-day long National AIDS Congress for the first time in Bangladesh during 1-2 December 2012, which is termed as Comprehensive Responses to HIV & AIDS in Bangladesh: A National Solidarity. The Congress was divided into 7 scientific sessions. Among these, session 6 was on "Legal, Human Rights, Stigma, Discriminations and Policy Issues", which was the most important as the speaker of the session included Parliamentarians, Human Rights activist, media personnel. The session was Chaired by Chairman of National Law Commission Prof. Shah Alam and Co-chaired by the Social Mobilization & Partnership Advisor of UNAIDS Bangladesh Dr. Munir Ahmed. BSWS actively corroborated with UNAIDS Bangladesh and sponsored the session. Speakers at the session positively talked about issues around sexual minority and a range of recommendation came at the end of the session as follows:
Strengthening media advocacy program to enhance the role of media to reduce stigma & discrimination in HIV/AIDS Response. Increase awareness amongst relevant stakeholders e.g. Law & Policy makers, Law enforcement and civil society. Create space in the parliament & other discussion forum to discuss about the rights of sex workers, MSM & TG community. Review the existing legal issues hindering the national response to HIV/AIDS.
18
NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION (NHRC) EXTENDS SUPPORT TO SEXUAL MINORITY POPULATIONS
A National Stakeholder Consultation on Human Rights of Sexual Minority Population held at Bangladesh National Human Rights Comission (NHRC) Office in Dhaka on 13 June 2012, which was chaired by the Chairman of NHRC, Bangladesh Prof. Dr. Mizanur Rahman. BSWS along with other community based organizations, civil society represntatives, development partners, lawyers and NHRC Secretary, members and high Officials participated in the consultation. The mandate of the consultation was targeted to familiarize the works of Sexual minority organizations in particular the issues, needs and concerns of the Sexual Minority popultation to NHRC so that support from NHRC can be strengthened in terms of legal response to HIV and promote an enabling environment in Bangladesh and also to develop a framework of strategy to address the rights issue of sexual minority population. Executive Director of BSWS Mr. Shale Ahmed informed the forum about the services, initiatives, strategies and achievements of the organization. Further, some key recommending points from community consultation were also presented, which was held on 12 June. The recommendations centred on the violence based on stigma, discrimination and discriminatory laws, access to health services and discrimination within the healthcare system, no recognition of Hijra/TG on identity documentation, stigma and discrimination within the education system and discrimination from local elected government bodies/representatives. Finally, the presentation concluded with some expectation of continuous support from the NHRC. Ms. Bobby Hijra from Shustha Jiban and Ms. Joya Sikder from Somparker Noya Shetu also shared their experiences with the forum. While addressing the participants of the consultation, Chairman of NHRC Prof. Mizanur Rahman focused on the discrimination and rights violation of the peoples on basis of sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) in the country. He firmly mentioned that NHRC, as a national institute to patronize the human rights issues has a significant role to play on the issues of sexual minorities and also emphasized on continues dialogues between communities and NHRC. Prof. Rahman praised the services, initiatives, strategies and achievements of BSWS and strongly recommended to the organization to share the data, information and study reports with NHRC and refer the rights violation cases to the human rights champion organizations in the country.
19
In terms of framing the strategy to address the rights issues the NHRC, Bangladesh Chairman suggested that the intervention stays along "Rights to Health" focus, which is more appropriate in the current country context, as direct SOGI intervention might face some problems and it would be difficult for NHRC to support them. Through this approach the issues and concerns of the population well addressable and NHRC can firmly stay with the causes. Country Coordinator of UNAIDS Mr. Leo Kenny and Dr. Munir Ahmed of UNAIDS, and also the participants and guests supported the strategy put forward by the Chairman NHRC. Famous Novelist Selina Hossain, UNDP Deputy Country Director Ms. Young Hong, International Development Law Organization (IDLO) representative Ms. Naomi Burke-Shyne were among the guests of the event. In the end, Chair of the event express his gratitude to the participants, honorable guests and the organizer for conducting such a time demand program.
DIGNIFIED LIVELIHOOD FOR THE HIJRA COMMUNITY

BSWS always keen to address and focus on improving livelihood security of the sexual minority populations, which it considers as an important area that need to be emphasized. The organization focuses on improving access of minorities in traditional and non-traditional employment sector. This includes facilitating in acquiring income generating skills for the Hijra community members as well as lobbying and advocacy with formal employment sector to increase acceptance and reduce discrimination at work place. This is one of the major areas of BSWS interventions. There is an excellent example of extension of support in this key area of improving livelihood options for the sexual minority population, which is given below. BSWS and Giti's Beauty Parlour & Training Centre jointly organized a 15 day-long beautification training course, which began from 16 November 2012 where 10 members of the Hijra community had participated. Technical direction from the owner of Giti's Beauty Parlour & Training Centre Ms. Giti Billah, could transform this noble initiative to a successful one through the committed support from the Chairperson of BSWS and renounced Cultural Activist Mr. Anisul Islam Hero. Sr. Officer of BSWS Mesbah U. Ahmed coordinated the course up to its completion. Participants of the beautification course were from Sammo Manob Kallayan Songothan of Comilla, Shadakalo from Dhamrai, Somparker Noya Shetu and BSWS from Dhaka, who are using the skills attained from the course for earning for their life & living in a dignified way.
20
Bandhu Social Welfare Society believes in ensured & quality service delivery in order to achieve success in its interventions, which has a phenomenal importance in working for the marginal people like sexual minority Populations...
Bandhu

Social Welfare Society has provided core services to Sexual Minority Populations with a vision to ensure improvement of sexual and reproductive health as well as to ensure safer sex practices among its beneficiaries. The service packages were available in three big Divisional areas of Dhaka, Chittagong and Sylhet covering fourfold approaches like: Drop in services, Clinical & VCT services, Awareness rising activities Policy and Advocacy Initiative
The achievement of major indicators of BSWS are as below in 2012. Achievements of Major Indicators in 2012 of BSWS in comparison with that of 2011
The following indicators increased over last year:

Total contact with Male Sex Worker (MSW) by 4.77% Total contact with Hijra/TG by 32.59% Total number of MSM/MSW Reach by 6.42% Total number of Hijra/TG Reach by 23.12% Counseling service receiver by 7.66% DIC/IHC visitor by 11.19% Number of Syphilis Screening and Testing by 31.33% Family Planning Counseling by 174.15%
23
Service: Key to Success
Total contact with MSM by 6.62%
DROP IN CENTER (DICS)/ MALE HEALTH CENTRES

BSWS operates drop in center services to create a supportive environment for the project participants with a view of recreation for sexual minorities and to increase the scope of community ownership. DIC is the place where the beneficiaries enjoy the facilities of sharing their own feelings, emotions, needs and concern in a common safe place and also they receive the services available for them In the preferable time and with the guarantee of full confidentiality. The commonly available services in the DIC are: Knowledge Sharing among the community through awareness raising session, BCC materials, Social Group Meetings, Psychosocial and Psychosexual counseling, Condom and Lubricant distribution etc. In 2012, a total of 93,125 individuals visited DIC and took part in various activities.
CLINICAL & VCT SERVICES

BSWS has been working intensively to reduce the rate of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among the target beneficiaries. In 2012 the organization had 38 service centers throughout the country. Under the clinic service BSWS had provision of STI treatment with free medicine, support for general health related sickness with free prescriptions and also STI and psychosexual counseling for sexual minorities. In the period 2012, a total of 3693 clinical sessions conducted where 25,529 STI cases and 36,076 general health patients were treated.
There are 5 (five) VCT centers attached with clinic for where the project participants are receiving standard HIV testing facilities with same day result using rapid test kits and pre and post test counseling support under Madhumita project. The VCT results were validated to cross check with BSMMU results to sending serum sample of blood. The support was maintaining the confidentiality for all. In DIC s under RCC project all VCT clients were referred to other VCT centers.
24
In 2012, a total of 2,066 project participants attended in VCT sessions and received HIV testing services, which was followed by pre and post test counseling.
AWARENESS RAISING ACTIVITIES THROUGH OUTREACH

The outreach activities were the key component of the sexual health promotion and HIV prevention activities at BSWS. The organization paid significant effort in designing creative outreach activities monitored through a system monitoring and field supervision. The outreach activities at BSWS included community building initiatives, one to one and group session; refer to DIC, follow-up of STI/VCT services, demonstration and distribution of condom and lubricant, and conduct BCC session through BCC/IEC materials distribution and so on. In 2012, BSWS worked in 365 cruising spots, under which BSWS reached 23,952 MSM /MSW and 2,934 Hijra.
CONDOM AND LUBRICANT DISTRIBUTION

BSWS works to prevent the further spread of new HIV infections and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among the sexual minority population. As a running activity BSWS has been continuing the condom promotion program. Under this program awareness rising session has been organized routinely and regularly for the community members to increase their knowledge on correct and consistent using of condom. During this reporting year, a total of 8,319,682 condoms and 941,267 tube lubricants were distributed among the MSM/MSW and Hijra population.
Web based counseling was an innovation initiative at BSWS. The web based counseling was very effective to provide services tom target group who are shy to or reluctant to seek services in person. Since the user of internet in the country is still low, therefore, the number of web based clients is still low. BSWS is continuously trying to make it popular among the young and adolescence. Help line was another initiative through which clients had accessed counseling over phone. 772 clients received counseling support over telephone during this year. In spite of availability of mobile phone the achievement rate was still lower because most clients were not habituated with the counseling providing helpline. Community people who were engaged with DIC, liked to
25
WEB BASED & HELP LINE COUNSELING
have counseling from there rather from helpline. There was a high potentiality to include those clients who were not included with DIC services and obviously this was also an innovative approach to include more clients. Considering the high potentiality of the intervention BSWS has been doing more publicity to popularize the helpline counseling services.
26
Bandhu Social Welfare Society depends on its strengths of advocacy & mobilization of different stakeholders in achieving its goals and objectives. It firmly believes that nothing could be achieved without community mobilization through a meaningful advocacy...
SENSITIZATION MEETING WITH THE LAW MAKERS TO ENSURE RIGHTS BASED APPROACH
BSWS
in partnership with Manusher Jonno Foundation and UNAIDS organized a sensitization meeting with the Law Makers on September 26 September 2012 at the IPD Conference Hall, where 12 Members of Bangladesh Parliament were present. The meeting was organized to facilitate and ensure effective coordination with the law makers & policy makers, which were a part of comprehensive right based response towards the sexual minority population.
Outputs of the meeting

12 Member of Parliaments (MPs) were provided with better understanding on different needs and human rights of sexual minority population along with the other participants'. MPs showed their interest in attending the sessions and events meant to enhance different stakeholders' understanding about HR issues related to sexual minority groups.
BSWS understands that one of the biggest challenges in responding to the sexual health including HIV and human rights of the Sexual Minority Population is the level of understanding, which ultimately leads to stigma Mechanism developed to and discrimination. Legal and social barriers further increase this challenge. Although coordinate strengthened addressing the specific concerns of sexual national AIDS response and to health among sexual minority population is the share knowledge, experiences key priority area, but this requires joint and and evidences on working for collaborative efforts by government, civil the sexual minority populations. society and other development partners. In particular, policy and law makers can play an important role in promoting human rights and creating enabling environment for scaling up HIV and sexual health programs for these communities. A conducive environment is essential for an effective and comprehensive response to HIV and appropriate sexual health among this population. BSWS feels that it is necessary and a call of the time to facilitate a legal environment
29
Advocacy: Pillar to Achievement
coupled with human rights-based policies and programs for sexual minority population, in order to achieve universal access to HIV prevention, treatment and care and to support progress towards the Millennium Development Goals. The meeting was hosted keeping the following objectives in mind:
To have a consultation session with the MPs to enhance their understanding on human rights needs and concerns of sexual minority populations. To initiate policy level dialogue with MPs and also plan for a series of similar multistakeholder dialogues under the guidance of MPs with a view to improve dignity and social justice of sexual minority population. To develop a sustainable & effective working relationships and coordination mechanism with MPs so that sexual minority groups could seek/access their support in times of their rights violation.
DIALOGUE WITH THE LAW ENFORCERS

BSWS conducted a series of meetings with the Members of the Law Enforcing Agencies (LEA) in the district and central level on the concerns of the MSM and Hijra population and also to seek their support & cooperation for smooth implementation of the interventions. As per the plan and continued communication, one sharing session with DMP was held on 08 February 2012 at the Conference Room of DMP Head Quarters, Ramna, Dhaka which was chaired by the DMP Commissioner Mr. Benazir Ahmed BPM (Bar) and 21 participants partake in the meeting including the senior officials of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP). It could be worthwhile to mention that in Bangladesh Law Enforcement Agencies (LEA) have administrative and service responsibilities, in addition to their law enforcement responsibilities, which typically related to assisting citizens to avoid non-compliance with law and to maintain safety and security of the society. Among the citizens there are some people who are different for sexual orientation usually known as MSM and hijra and are deprived of their rights, often harassed and mishandled by the mass people and by the members of the LEA as well. For that reason, BSWS felt to consolidate the relationship with law enforcers and work towards ensuring the rights of population and aware and sensitize all tiers of the society including LEAs.
30
The objectives of the meeting with the DMP were to share the existing programs of BSWS and strengthen the collaboration with Law Enforcement Agency in order to ensure maximum support towards Sexual Minority population in particular MSM and Hijras. So that it could be possible for smooth implementation of the interventions, develop a mechanism for enhancing knowledge base among the Law Enforcement Agencies (LEA) on Human Rights for Sexual Minority population, explore the means and ways and seek supportive role of the DMP office to reduce harassment & violence among Sexual Minority populations. The meeting objectives also incorporated to look for necessary supports and effective communication for creating enabling environment in order to reduce stigma, vulnerability and marginalization of the Sexual Minorities. The event started with the introduction of individuals present in the session followed by welcome speech by Mr. Habibur Rahman BPM, PPM Deputy Police Commissioner (HQ), DMP and Mr. Anisul Islam Hero, Chairperson, BSWS. Mr, Shale Ahmed, Executive Director of BSWS made a presentation about BSWS where he reflected the information regarding BSWS, its history, geographical coverage, working areas and nature and harassment and data on rights violation. Later on Dr. Munir Ahmed, Advisor UNAIDS presented the scenario of UN response to Universal Access of Sexual Minorities. News clipping on sexual minorities and HIV/AIDS which was earlier telecast on a private TV channel NTV was screened. The floor was opened for discussion after the news g was shown. Finally, the session was concluded with the remarks from the Chair. After the presentations, speeches and open discussion, the meeting was concluded by arriving in to a consensus that
DMP will take initiative and inform BSWS and their partner organizations of the sexual minority community about any issues related to the sexual minorities. The meeting recognized that most of the issues related to stigma, vulnerability and marginalization of sexual minorities are related to family, community and society. The high officials of the DMP had expressed their willingness and commitment to work together to address the issue through establishing a wing within the training division of Police. They will also provide support and help others to understand the needs and benefits to sensitize about the issues of sexual minorities in order to stop harassment, to reduce stigma, vulnerabilities and marginalization about/of the sexual monitories. It will help the member of the police department to be sensitized and understand the issues of sexual minorities, which will have positive impact throughout the period of their service while performing their duties.
MULTI-SECTORAL MEETINGS AT THE DIVISIONAL LEVEL

MULTI-SECTORAL SOLIDARITY DECLARED AT SYLHET TO INTENSIFY HIV AND SEXUAL HEALTH INTERVENTIONS FOR MSM AND Hijra/TGs
A daylong District Multi-sectoral Consultation Meeting was held at a local hotel of Sylhet on 7 June 2012, where the government leaders, senior officials, civil society representatives and representatives from Sexual Minority population attended the meeting. The main objective of the consultation was to catalyze, strengthen and enhance coordinated responses through increased commitment among multi stakeholders, in tandem with the real
31
In his remarks the DMP Commissioner Mr. Benazir Ahmed BPM mentioned that police has a role for social issues and therefore he called for a human approach in addressing the issues of sexual minorities. He opined that existence of familial and societal attitude of denial and approaches due to wrong perception and misunderstanding about the sexual minorities needs to be changed. He also stressed upon organizing such activities at field level/operational level of DMP to enable field level officer's in sensitizing and understanding this important issue.
needs of MSM, hijras and transgender. The solidarity meet expected to lead in intensifying HIV and sexual health interventions at local level with appropriate and supportive policies along with ensuring their implementation. The Chief Guest of the Program Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Sylhet Mr. Khan Mohammad Belal expressed his solidarity to support the work of BSWS. He said that the DC office will provide technical support to ensure services for the MSM and hijra population within its resources. He also said, "The religious leaders can play a very vital role to achieve today's objectives. I am requesting all the Imams (Muslim religious leaders) to talk on the issue at the least for 2-3 minutes during delivering the Khutba". He also requested BSWS to initiate working with other sexual minority groups like Lesbians. During the deliberation of the meeting the Executive Director of BSWS Mr. Shale Ahmed said, "we must act from now on, otherwise we might not be able to control the HIV epidemic amongst MSM and hijras in our country in near future". The Superintendent of the Police of Sylhet Mr. Mohammad Sakhawat Hossain had said that, "Polices are not against the MSM/TG population, rather they are to support every human being. But they need more awareness on the issue of MSM and hijra population. BSWS is welcome to train the police on the sexual minority issues at the "Police's In Service Training Centre". In response to a question of a participant the Head of Community Medicine of the Sylhet Medical College & Hospital Dr. Shibbir Ahmed Shiblee replied, "An MSM or hijra don't want to get married as they don't feel comfortable to live with a female, where he himself has a female inside. We have to create acceptance of them among the society, empower them through involving them on the issue of social matter which in the long run will create a positive impact in continuing the program". In the end, Civil Surgeon of Sylhet and the Chair of the program Dr. Kamrul Islam expressed his gratitude to the participants, honorable guests and the organizers for conducting such a time demand program. In his speech he said, "MSM and hijras are always neglected in our society; we don't offer any job to them for their survival. These conditions make them more vulnerable and lead them to do illegal works. We should craft livelihood options for them as well as ensure easy access to health care services and the basic human rights to live with dignity". The international award winner documentary on MSM and hijras "Are we so different" was also screened during the program. Around 50 people participated in the event and shared their views and expressed solidarity to support the MSM and hijras in Sylhet district. Technical Advisor of Naz Foundation International Mr. Md. Mamunur Rashid moderated the sessions of the program. Program Manager of Project DIVA Mr. ASM Rahmat Ullah Bhuiyan has shared the objective of the program and also expressed about how the Multi-sectoral stakeholders could contribute in the MSM and TG programming at Sylhet.
32
ENSURING FUNDAMENTAL RIGHTS OF TRANSGENDER PEOPLE EMPHASIZED

Speakers at the consultation meeting in Rajshahi on 28 June 2012 said that Multi-sectoral approach should be adopted to ensure fundamental rights especially health, social and legal rights of the transgender and MSM population for uplifting their dignity, living condition and livelihood. They mentioned that the society, as a whole, should come forward with a positive attitude towards the socially excluded people for their co-existence in the society. They were speaking at the district multi-sectoral consultation meeting "human rights, healthcare and vulnerability of SMS and hijra community: integrated efforts", which was organized by at Party Point, Rajshahi. The main focus of the meeting was to enhance downstream networking and knowledge sharing among key stakeholders of the MSM/Hijra sexual health service providers at the district level. Divisional Director of Health Dr. AKM Ashraf Uuzzaman addressed the meeting as the chief guest while Civil Surgeon Dr. Shahidul Islam had presided. Assistant Director of Health Dr. Ferdousi Azmal, Chief Health Officer of Rajshahi City Corporation Dr. FAM Anzuman Ara Begum and Executive Director of Light House Mr. Harun Ur Rashid had spoken as special guests. Representatives of various government and non-government health service provider & volunteer organizations and other stakeholders attended the meeting and shared their views on how to ensure healthcare facilities to the excluded people.
They informed the meeting that the members of transgender and sexual minorities' community are subjected to negligence and repression in every sphere of life including family and society. The Hijra community is essentially deprived of several rights under the country's existing law and time has come to promoting and protecting fundamental rights of the extreme socially excluded people. All Bangladeshi government documents are prepared for male or female citizens. Hijras are left with no choice as they have to identify themselves as either male or female according to those documents, they added.
33
The speakers called for adopting need-oriented measures like proper treatment, free medicine, free condom, awareness program, access to service to the health care setting through mainstreaming in order to reduce STDs/HIV/AIDS related risk and vulnerability. They stressed that their rights like human dignity, to work, equality and non-discrimination, freedom from all sorts of abuse and manipulation, equal access to education, security of person and property must be ensured. They also said that all the way through, bringing together a broad range of stakeholders, including government, NGOs, media, and MSM/Hijra CBOs has been able to share deeper sequence and build consensus on addressing sexual health needs of MSM and TGs, which is very essential. They pointed out that this consultation meeting will create a platform for dialogue and discuss on the critical issues of MSM/Hijra at the local level in future.
MULTI-SECTORAL MEETING AT MYMENSINGH TO INTENSIFY HIV AND SEXUAL HEALTH INTERVENTIONS FOR MSM AND Hijra/TGs
On 11th September 2012 this meeting held at Conference room, Civil Surgeon Office, Mymensingh. Around 50 participants from different part of the society have participated in the meeting. Mr. Rahmat Ullah Bhuiyan, Program of Manager of BSWS Project DIVA shared the purpose of this meeting with the participants then Mr. Gazi Faisal Hossain, presented a power point presentation on HIV and MSM/TG Population: A multi-sectoral response. "Hijras are human being & they are deprived from our family & society, so we should come forward to help them and create accesses their working opportunity in our society as well as states, said Mr. Zobaydur Rahman, Additional superintended of police, Mymensingh.
The Chief Guest of the event Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Mymensingh Mr. Lokman Hossain Miah said that "we should aware on HIV/AIDS prevention activity & should be taking initiative to dissemination message to our society regarding HIV/AIDS vulnerability. He also said we should respect our religious norms & should be practice as well in our life. He also thanks to BSWS for organize this event in Mymensingh." To create job opportunity, safe shelter, to MSM & Hijras raised voice from the participants. They also said that Hijras are human being so they have rights to provide vote by their own Identity. Government should be ensure their fundamental rights as a citizen of Bangladesh. From Social Welfare Ministry should be think on this issues said by the participants. At the end of the programme, Dr. Sanjib Kumar Chakrabarty, Civil Surgeon of Mymensingh and Chair of the event expressed his gratitude to the participants, honorable guests and the organizer for conducting such a time demand programme. In his speech he said, "MSM and hijras are always neglected in our society; we don't offer any job to them for their survival. These conditions make them more vulnerable and lead them to do illegal works. We should work collectively to change the Socio & Economic status of MSM & Hijra's in our country. There are some key recommendations came from the event:
It is important to take responsibility for ensuring the fundamental rights of MSM/ hijra population. More orientation for civil society thus ensures access on education of MSM/hijra population. MSM/hijra population in our family member therefore should not deprive their access on health treatment as well as job opportunity.
34
DISTRICT LEVEL LAWYERS GROUP (DLLGS) ADDS VALUE TO BSWS INTERVENTIONS

BSWS formed DLLG forum in Dhaka, Sylhet and Chittagong Divisions in 2008. Currently BSWS works with DLLG Forums in 19 districts and each forum consists of 15-20 members in each district towns. BSWS organized a series of meetings which is conducted on a half-yearly basis with the support of these forums. The DLLG plays a three-fold role, which includes;

Sensitizing local advocates, government officials and other stakeholders, Providing legal support and protection for local MSM and Hijra communities, and Raising voice on behalf of the community members to advocate for policy reform. DLLGs also help to facilitate other BSWS project activities within their localities, such as commemoration of World AIDS Day and International Human Rights Day and so on. To sensitize and activate Human Rights on the sexual minorities issue. To foster advocacy activities in order to promote a culture of human rights for sexual minorities so that they are positively viewed by the general society. To reduce the vulnerability of the socially excluded and stigmatized sexual minorities from significant levels of harassment, violence and abuses through positive changes in legal, judicial and social attitudes. To create awareness in the society on sexual minorities programs. To extend such other supports required for implementing programs on sexual minorities at the local levels.
The main objectives in forming DLLG Forums are:

As a result, an enabling environment had been created through positive changes in legal, judicial and social attitudes and due to advocacy & promotion of rights of MSM around sexual health so that they are positively viewed by the society as a whole.
35
JOURNALIST FORUM A STRONGHOLD...

BSWS attaches much importance on the media, both print & electronic, as they may play a pivotal role in bringing in changes in the social psyche in order to create an atmosphere free of discrimination, stigma and subjugation of any kind. For this reason media is called as the fourth estate of the nation. It also, with specific reference to the collective entity of newspapers, radio, television and the International Network (Internet), play a very invaluable role in the overall national development. Nevertheless the media within democracy is the strongest platform to generate and influence public opinion and also advocate for causes, promote policy reformation and also influences political will. All these facts prompted BSWS to hold series of meetings with the media to fulfill objectives to create a forum for the media, when the Media Forum members responded in supportive manner for the sexual minorities, which could be seen as follows:
Positive write up to be published in the both local & national levels, and print & electronic media in order to promote health care services, encourage people for changing behavior and mobilize public opinion to ensure the acceptance of sexual minorities in the society. The sensitized members of forum worked to that extent to sensitize fellow media colleagues in peer approach, as the BSWS very seldom do. The meeting resulted in gradual increase of media coverage of BSWS events. The forum members maintained a strong collaboration with other group of people in the society such as lawyers, religious leaders, civil society, mass people, law enforcement agency members, local administration. The media found very useful and more forceful, when BSWS organized round table discussions, talk shows with prominent news papers and TV channels and the outcomes of them are seen as the establishment of the media forum and its members' efforts. The media forum is also actively & responsively addressing the violence and harassment against sexual minorities with great importance. Currently, both media forum members and media personnel sensitized by the forum members, as they are coming up with more innovative ideas/ways to make more people aware on the status of sexual minorities in Bangladesh. This is what makes BSWS to feel that it is on the way to walk through the thorny and difficult path, though a long way to go for achieving our goals.

The expected role of media forum helped BSWS to believe that the organization would be able to bring in change and improve the political, economic and social lives of the sexual minorities, and secure wellbeing of the population in Bangladesh which BSWS aimed at.
NETWORK SUPPORTS ADVOCACY

Regular Networking and collaboration is going on among the networking organizations and groups working on the sexual minority populations in identifying issues and challenges and develop strategies to address them. The efforts are also concentrated to make the voice united and move towards the establishment of organized, strengthened, functional and institutional network. Regular meetings with network partners are ongoing. BSWS identified some new CBOs/NGOs/ Groups in divisional level and those CBOs/NGOs/Groups are being provided with technical support through capacity building in their activities. BSWS advocacy program is extended to the following stakeholders at both divisional and district levels:
BSWS is organizing Advocacy workshops with religious leaders and faith-based organizations since 2008.
36

BSWS has Project Facilitation Team (PFT) in 19 districts that consist of local elites and influential persons. BSWS regularly organizes advocacy programs with health services provider and also with the private practitioners.
As a result, the patient flow in the Government Hospitals has increased. Moreover, a total of 4 Eye Camps were organized in collaboration with Dhaka Urban Eye Care Project where more than 500 beneficiaries received treatment through the camp.
LEGAL SERVICE FOR THE COMMUNITY

BSWS perceives that the issue of extending the same rights to Sexual Minority persons, as enjoyed by everyone else, is neither radical nor complicated. It rests on two fundamental principles that underpinning the international human rights law: equality and non-discrimination. The preamble of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights could be deemed as unequivocal: "All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights." Nevertheless, deeply embedded homophobic attitudes, often combined with a lack of adequate legal protection against discrimination on grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity, expose many sexual minority people of all ages and in all regions of the world to egregious violations of their human rights. They are discriminated in the labor market, in schools and in hospitals, and mistreated & disowned by their own families. They are singled out for physical attack-beaten, sexually assaulted, tortured and killed on the streets of towns and cities around the world. About 76 countries do have discriminatory laws, which criminalize private, consensual same-sex 1 relationships, exposing individuals to the risk of arrest, prosecution and imprisonment. UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon, while addressing the Human Rights Council Session in the beginning of 2012, delivered a strong message in favor of the rights of the people with different sexual orientation and gender identity. Country context of Bangladesh do not represent the same international development experiences. Although there are some significant achievements has been found in favor of the rights of sexual minority. National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) initiated some positive response in the addressing the rights of the sexual monitory population in collaboration with human rights organizations, NGOs and civil society. Incorporating the issues of sexual minority in UPR Report by NHRC and Country Shadow Report by Civil Society are seen as a significant result of those activities. Whereas in the last UPR, Bangladesh said that the country has 'strong traditional and cultural values' and homosexuality is not an 'acceptable norm' and that recommendations regarding this issue were termed as "out of context". It needs to mention that in 2009, the rights of sexual minorities have not been addressed by the NHRC, nor was it reflected either in the Country Report or in the Civil Society Report. But, in 2012, BSWS had a positive response from Dhaka Metropolitan Police and they had agreed to support the sexual minority on humanitarian approaches.
1 Navi Pillay United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights on a introduction of a Booklet - Born Free and Equal published by the UNITED NATIONS HUMAN RIGHTS OFFICE OF THE HIIGH COMMISSIONER in 2012
37
In spite of all the positive responses, accepting and protecting of sexual minority persons has remained as an "area of darkness" in Bangladesh. Many sexual minority people are facing discrimination since formative age of life including in the schools and/or workplaces and denied to health care and justice. It resulted in torn between fear, confusion and guilt, finding little support from family members, friends and society. Bangladesh is among the 76 countries that retain laws from colonial era including so-called sodomy that are used to criminalize people on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity. What these laws have in common is their use to harass and prosecute/persecute individuals because of their actual or perceived sexuality or 2 3 45 gender identity. Due to the section 377 of the Bangladesh Penal Code and other legal hurdles , the Human Rights and other rights of sexual minority population are frequently being 6 overlooked and violated in Bangladesh. Sexual minority populations are hardly ever allowed to be the part of conventional society as social attitude towards sexual minority particularly feminized males and their sexual practices are linked with moral issues, masculinity and with power inequality dynamics of Bangladesh society. The paradoxical roles and practices of Bangladesh Government machinery are visible impediments for addressing, facilitating and ensuring the rights of sexual minority people in Bangladesh. The tradition of antagonistic culture, behavior and act of our Law Enforcing Agencies (LEA) - enforcing 'sodomy offence', confiscating condoms and using 'condoms' as a material witness, which are some example of creating impediment on condom distribution 7 among unmarried persons and harassment and violation of the rights of the sexual minority population in Bangladesh. Conversely, 'condom' is identified as the key means and strategy of STI/HIV prevention among Most at Risk Populations (MARPs) that includes Men Having Sex with Men (MSM) & Hijra by NASP under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MOHFW) in 8 Bangladesh . On the other hand, the realm of ambiguity is, the Ministry of Public Administration recently initiated a pilot project for 'Integrating the Transgender (Hijra) population into mainstream of the society' with the funding from Ministry of Education's "Skills Development Project". That spreads smells of ambiguity and contradicts with the government statement in the last UPR. As per the recent size estimation and mapping exercise of MSM & hijra and CCM approved RCC project of the Global Fund in Bangladesh, a huge number of sexual minority people exist in the country identified as marginalized and Most at Risk Population. Thus all concerned are requested to put their best efforts to recognize the rights and plights of the sexual minority and pave the ways to enjoy their rights by removing all legal barriers, stigma and discriminatory hurdles to address and facilitate the ways to ensure the rights of sexual minority in Bangladesh in order to have a harmonized and peaceful society. BSWS is playing its part to address the rights violation and protection of sexual minority population as a part of its legal support providing initiatives. 172 peoples were the victims in 137 incidents/cases of human right violation as per the database of BSWS in 2012. 63 among the incidents were collected from working areas of BSWS and the rest 74 from legal helpline service.
The community suffered their rights violation through different perpetrators and perpetuators. The data provided below clearly shows the number of cases of the victims abused and the patterns of the perpetrators:
2 Page 13 - 14, Report of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights- A/HRC/19/4, 17 November 2011, (Discriminatory laws and practices and acts of violence against individuals based on their sexual orientation and gender identity) 3 Section 377 of THE PENAL CODE, 1860 (ACT NO XLV OF 1860) 4 Section 74, 75, 77, 79, 80, 84, 86, 97 of THE DHAKA METROPOLITAN POLICE ORDINANCE, 1976 5 Section 54 (1) and 55(1) of THE CODE OF CRIMINAL PROCEDURE, 1898 6 Same Sex Love in a Different Climate - A study into the life of Sexual Minority (LGBT) persons in Bangladesh by Bandhu Social Welfare Society (BSWS), a national organization supporting sexual health and wellbeing of sexual minorities. (www.bandhu-bd.org) 7 Page 9, INTERNATIONAL CONSULTATION ON POLICING OF MOST-AT-RISK POPULATIONS REPORT, ROME 10-11 MAY 2012, Law Enforcement and HIV Network 8 3rd National Strategic Plan for HIV and AIDS Response 2011-2015 (http://www.bdnasp.net)
38
BSWS record shows the following are the types of harassment, violence and rights violation that sexual minorities suffered:

Physical torture/assault Restriction of mobility Limited access to services Arrest without warrant.

Scolding Snatching

Beating
Sexual Abuse/Harassment
Threat of Defamation or discloser of identity
Expression of opinion
Restriction to participate in cultural and religious events/rituals, and
All these facts led BSWS to provide legal assistance and legal counseling, which are the key areas of interventions of the BSWS and this work is coordinated by Human Rights Cell. The BSWS has developed a HR abuses case-tracking template to collect and analyze data from multiple sources. The data is collected from a range of issues including violence, abuse, discrimination or Human Rights Violation. The data is collected on regular basis and analyzed periodically to support and guide BSWS's work in relation to legal aid and community outreach. Following chart depicts the functions of Human Rights Cell at a glance: The findings of the case analysis provide following recommendations arises in preventing the rights violation & harassments against the sexual minorities in Bangladesh. The situation refers to five major areas:

Firstly, protect sexual minority population from homophobic and Trans-phobia violence. Secondly, prevent the torture and cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment of LGBT persons in detention by prohibiting and punishing for such acts and ensuring that victims are provided with redress.

Fourthly, prohibit discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. Finally, Safeguard freedom of expression, association and peaceful assembly for sexual minority and intersex people.
On basis of those recommendations following actions need to be taken based on the current country context:
Assure confidentiality of beneficiaries and stop further stigmatization in legal aid process Continue collaboration and coordination with the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and refer the cases to NHRC to achieve their support. Disseminate NHRC services among sexual minority population.
39
Thirdly, repeal laws criminalizing homosexuality, including all laws that prohibit private sexual conduct between consenting adults of the same sex.

Collaboration with Law Commission with the support of NHRC. Face to face dialogue need to be arranged with the Multi-stakeholders including policy makers, community leaders and relevant government agencies. Sensitization and well targeted campaign on Legal & Human Rights Issues. Advocacy and dialogue with different media to address the legal and human rights issues of sexual minorities in Bangladesh Mobilize sexual minority population and initiate movement against the discriminatory laws against the sexual minorities, which criminalizes them by the BPC Section-377 of the Bangladesh Penal Code (BPC).

MEDIA RESPONSE:
STRENGTH FOR BSWS

'Orao Amader' is a program title, which is regularly telecast from the national TV channel of Bangladesh concerning the need and voices of the Hijra population. As a part of its Media initiatives, BSWS is contributing and providing all sorts of support for the event. In one episode of the program titled "Hijra & Health Facility" Counseling Psychologist Dr. Mehtab Khanom, Executive Director of BSWS Shale Ahmed and Kajol Hijra raised different health aspects of the Hijra community and present status in Bangladesh. In another episode titled "Media Initiative for Hijra Issue", the BSWS Chairperson and Cultural Activist Mr. Anisul Islam Hero, Independent Film Maker Noman Robin and Ananya Hijra discussed the recent hijra issues and scope of work in media. The anchor of the show Ms. Umme Farhana Zarif seemed to possess sound knowledge on the Hijra community, who has been working with BSWS over the last eight years. Radio Episodes Aired: 225 episodes of program has been aired as awareness program on the sexual and reproductive Health Rights issue through FM Radio, which resulted 2,421 persons to receive psycho-social support through helpline.
40
However, the qualitative findings indicated a gap as many of the MSM negated the query. The difference in quantitative and qualitative response was not in nature, rather in magnitude of the issue...
In 2012 BSWS directly undertaken as well as collaborated numbers of important research. Some highlights are as below:
EARLY DEBUT OF SAME SEXUAL ACTIVITIES AMONGST MALES IN BANGLADESH
While

implementation of programme BSWS had found that the proportion of the young MSM (age under 18 years) is increasing alarmingly, and it was increasingly difficult to address their sexual health services due to many underlying factors. That intrigued BSWS to conduct a study to explore information about adolescent MSM in the seven divisional cities of Bangladesh. The study was conducted in partnership with ACNielsen Bangladesh and helped BSWS in developing appropriate development interventions (socio, economic and sexual health service) and policy for the adolescent MSM and MSW in Bangladesh. The study had been conducted with the following objectives: Mapping of the proportion of underage MSM and MSW population within BSWS work domain. Identifying underlying causes/factors that propelled them to be in the MSM and MSW communities Identifying appropriate development interventions for their well being and recommend the ways to deliver services to them.
Mapping was done in 7 divisional headquarters and Mymensingh town to find out cruising spots for MSM who are under 18 years of age and to estimate their size. In total 246 spots were identified which were mostly some selected prominent place or building. Other noticeable sites/spots for MSM included railway station, prominent road points/turns/junctions, market place, garden/park, open space and bus/truck/taxi stations. A total of 618 MSM were included in the behavior survey of MSM, who were typically 16 years old with 5% of them being in the age range 10-13 years. Of the total MSM, 85% had ever been to school and among them, more than half completed secondary level education. For 42% of the MSM, who were involved in some economic activities, such as working in garments, hotel, shop as employee, and business. While for 9% of the MSM, primary occupation was sex work, 53% mentioned sex trade was their secondary occupation. Around three-fourths were staying at home and 15% were living on street or similar and around 13% stayed at hostel. For the MSM included in the study, average age of first non-penetrative sex was 12.2 years. The type of first non-penetrative sex mostly included touching genitals or different body parts (63%) and masturbation (23%). Overall, 71% of the MSM had their first non-penetrative sex with a male and others had it with females (24%) and transgender (5%). Majority of the MSM enjoyed their first sexual exposure (86%) and 13% of the MSMs were scared or felt bad. The mean age of first penetrative sex was 13.1 years for the MSM with almost half of them having it between ages 14-17 years. First penetrative sex was also enjoyed by majority by the MSM contrasting 13% of MSM who did not like it. However, for wide majority, first penetrative sex was not forced. More than one-fifth of the MSM, first penetrative sex were transactional, in terms of cash or gift. The average number of male sex partners of MSM in last 1 year was 34.8 and 4.8 transgender sex partners. For majority of the MSM, continuation of the MSM behavior was due to sexual pleasure and about 4 out of 10 MSM continued the behavior for money. Overall, 23% of the MSM had experienced forced sex ever. For them, the perpetrators included neighbors, boyfriend/friends, local hoodlums/pimp/clients and relatives. Mean age at first forced sex was 12.9 years, who had experienced it ever. Further, more than half of the MSM had experienced forced sex in last 12 months and on an average 3.1 times in the same period.
43
Research: Moving Forward Strategically
Facing problem in educational institutions was reported by fewer proportions of MSM, yet, for them, the problems mostly included 'bad words', 'mocking', 'scolding', 'seclusion', and physical violence. Qualitative findings supported the fact with more facets of 'problems', such as, 'discriminatory attitude', 'forced sex by classmates and teachers', as well. During the quantitative survey, 83% of the MSM admitted of being able to share their health problems with health service providers. However, the qualitative findings indicated a gap as many of the MSM negated the query. The difference in quantitative and qualitative response was not in nature, rather in magnitude of the issue. However, the reasons for not being able to share the health problem with the health service providers were similar from both the surveys, which included shyness and unwillingness due to the fear of being judgmental by the providers. Many of the qualitative respondents further delineated their non-medical health seeking behavior for their sexual health needs. Almost all of the MSM had heard of HIV and AIDS ever (96%) and the most frequently stated sources of information for them included TV (79%), peer educator (61%), DICs (31%), radio (31%), and books/newspaper/magazine (25%). Regarding the ways of HIV transmission, mostly mentioned way known to the MSM was" sex with multiple partners without condom" (66%), followed by unsafe sex with PLHIV (59%), reuse of injection/sharing needle/syringe (57%), blood transfusion/body part transplantation from PLHIV (43%), unsafe sex with sex workers (35%), and HIV/AIDS infected mother to child at the pregnancy/lactating stage HIV (31%). On the other hand, 86% of the MSM knew using a condom correctly every time of having sex would prevent spreading HIV. However, knowledge of other ways of preventing HIV, such as 'having one uninfected faithful sex partner' (74%), and 'abstaining from sexual intercourse' (74%) might indicate a gap between their knowledge of transmission of the virus and preventive measures.
A quite good range of recommendations came from the study which will certainly enhance the programme in future:
Information
Orientation on sex, gender, sexuality, etc. needs to be imparted among boys at very early age. The communication strategy need to be planned very carefully and piloting the activities are essential so that child mind do not abuse the information. The program needs to have strategies and to put efforts to reach boys of all age group, at school and out-of school, and in working condition - who tend to practice risky sexual behavior to support them for good sexual health decision-making. Design and adapt programs to reach young boys with tailored information in innovative ways, by using information and communications technology (e.g. mobile phones, social media) and may be by adopting social marketing approach.
Protection and Rights

Community stakeholders and duty bearers need to be included in the program directly for raising their awareness on sex and sexuality and sex crime against children- so that, i) they can protect boy child from sexual exploitation, ii) they can prevent sexual exploitation within their jurisdiction, iii) if any sexual exploitation occurs, they can react upon, and iv) they can ensure mitigation of such social practice from their community Inclusion of community stakeholders and duty bearers into the program intervention further need to focus the violence, stigma and discrimination happening against the boys who show homosexuality. Awareness raising training for stakeholders and duty bearers from all level of social strata need to be imparted in the program.
44
Program Revision
Tailoring program interventions according to the different needs of MSM of different age groups and ensuring age-appropriate services. Such services can include appointing peer educators of different age to reach different age group MSM; life-skill training and negotiation skill training for younger MSM to protect themselves; vocational training for the older MSMs (under 18 years) who are vulnerable due to their subordinate occupational status. Identifying gaps in reaching different subsets of MSM who are most vulnerable and engage those that are being overlooked with outreach approaches such as sports programmes, clubs, youth groups, and other forms of peer outreach (adapted from NASP, 2012).
Service Provision
Expand the coverage of programs to reduce multiple sexual partnerships and to increase the use of condoms by young men - of all age. Expand efforts to reach MSM who are at higher risk of HIV with HIV prevention programs, including the provision of condoms (adapted from NASP, 2012).
Future Direction
Age disaggregated information for MSM focusing HIV and other ancillary issues need to be collected, compiled and disseminated. Qualitative assessment of different dimensions of high risk activities among the MSM under 18 years in relation to vulnerability towards violation of rights and protection Rigorous investigation of the path of transition from a general adolescent to especially vulnerable adolescents and afterwards to the most at risk adolescents (MSM), how the vulnerability transfers into risky behavior In-depth assessment of any other social or behavioral issues for MSM that puts them into risk
Qualitative research regarding condom behavior in terms of accessibility, availability, consistency and correctness need to be explored more.
REGIONAL NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS INSTITUTIONS INCLUSION, THE RIGHT TO HEALTH AND SOGI
The community survey was designed to gather important information to increase understanding about community perspectives on access to justice, reporting human rights violations and engagement with the National Human Rights Commission of Bangladesh (NHRC). 100 people from the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex community including Kothi and Panthi took part in the survey. The survey was led by peers from Bandhu Social Welfare Society (BSWS).
45
Qualitative aspect of pattern and magnitude of social exclusion in family and community to identify the manner of inclusion.
Findings about Human Rights Violations

87% of survey respondents indicated they experienced violations of their rights on the basis of their sexual orientation, gender identity or HIV status. Of the 87 respondents that replied they had experienced a violation of their rights, a majority indicated that they had reported the violation to an NGO or a friend; arguably demonstrating a low usage of the justice system by this community. Just 1 respondent reported the rights violation to the police. Only 5 respondents were able to identify the type rights violations they experienced, potentially indicating a limited knowledge of human rights amongst this community.

Findings about Reporting and Engagement with the NHRC

There was a reasonably low knowledge and awareness of the NHRC amongst respondents: 30% of respondents were aware of the NHRC. Of the 30% of respondents that were aware of the NHRC, most had become aware of the NHRC through an NGO or the newspaper. In the context of the question 'have you or someone you know reported a rights violation to the NHRC?' respondents that replied 'no' gave the following reasons for not reporting to the NHRC:

they did not know about the NHRC (38 respondents); that they did not know the process for reporting to the NHRC (38 respondents); and they did not know if the NHRC could help (9 respondents).
Community Feedback
Respondents believed the following factors would encourage people to report rights violations:

More information about how to make a complaint to the NHRC (47 respondents); More information about the NHRC (25 respondents); and Knowledge that the NHRC is sensitive to people from vulnerable groups, including people with diverse SOGI (12 respondents).
Respondents provided additional written feedback that the following would encourage people to report rights violations:

Assure confidentiality; Increase peer support to register complaints; Share information about successful NHRC interventions (publish positive outcomes on the NHRC website); and Build communication and a network between the NHRC and BSWS.
Respondents indicated that the NHRC could further promote the rights of people of diverse SOGI in the following ways:
Support a media campaign or cultural program with a non-discrimination and human rights message; Raise more awareness about the NHRC amongst the general public; Directly working with and communication with BSWS; and

46

Promote the right to health (include the rights of people of diverse SOGI and people living with HIV) with the police, local political leaders, community leaders and other relevant government agencies, through face to face dialogue and other appropriate means.
EMPOWERMENT OF MSM/HIJRA PLHA IN BANGLADESH

Bangladesh is a low prevalence country in terms of HIV and AIDS. The government and NGOs are working to prevent the spread of HIV and AIDS. There are some major There are also some major issues in terms of providing care & treatment to the PLHIV e.g. very few sensitized and trained health care provider to make available treatment, improper attitudes among health professionals towards PLHIV, refusal to treat the PLHIV in govt. hospital, insufficient testing facilities out of capital city (Dhaka), no facility for viral load testing & drug resistant testing etc. In addition, PLHIV are denied in getting access to any social, legal and life saving health services. Other rights as well as basic human rights are violated at all levels of living that exposes them at vulnerable situations. Majority of AIDS orphan, infected/affected children and women are deprived from property rights. They often don't get shelter in their home which also put them in higher risk. The social and political factors leads and puts MSM and Transgender/Hijra PLHA double stigmatized because of their sexual orientation and gender identity. On the other hand the positive MSM and TG positive populations are not getting appropriate services from the general set up as their issues and needs are different from than others. In this circumstance, BSWS has initiated collaborative efforts with Ashar Alo Society, the leading PLHIV organization in Bangladesh to address the issues of MSM/TG PLHIV. As the need and way of handling the MSM and Hijra group claim special considerations, still there are scopes to deliver better service. Amfar foundation supported BSWS to carry out a study to identify the areas of PLHA MSM and Hijra that affecting their life. BSWS hired Mr. Kamal Hossain an independent consultant to carry out the assessment. The research team in cooperation with BSWS has interviewed 16 PLHIV, 4 family members, 4 caregivers, 4 counselors and leaders of PLHIV network in Bangladesh.
Some key features that are came out in the survey

Age group: Education: The age of PLHIV are ranged from 20-46 and most of them in between 20-30 years of age. There are differences in education; half of them don't have formal education while there are persons who hold post graduate degrees. Among the interviewee, there are 9 persons who are MSM and the rests are Transgender. Most of the participants are from Dhaka and Chittagong and there 4 cases where they got infected in outside countries namely India and UAE. Most of the participants faced stigma and discrimination as they are identified as MSM or TG. So they are not willing to disclose their HIV status in most cases. They only share it with mother and close friends.
Classification: Place of infection:
Acute Stigma and discrimination:
47
Economic Status:
At least 50 % of the participants were dependent on CSW for their livelihood, and now facing severe problem as they don't have other options. Customers are not rely willing to pay while doing sex with using condom. Some of the PLHIV still practicing risky sexual relationship and activities. Most surprisingly, many of them were not aware about how to protect them from HIV and AIDS, even those who were used to visit DIC were also reluctant to use condom as they didn't believe those. 90% said that they didn't believe the messages and ignored to follow those. Most of the PLHIV don't even know what to do now, they are trying to cope with changed situation, but it is really tough to convince the family though some of them have become successful doing such. Economically sound 2/3 persons told that he would be able live their normal life as they are strong enough to carry out their own expenses, others are really anxious about their family. Only 2/3 persons permitted the team to talk with their parents The PLHIV are happy with the services that they are getting now. It is felt from the interview that they are not yet properly counseled if we think about risk free behavior and life skills. It is also found that the counselors also don't have proper know how to educate the PLHIV from sexual minorities group. Many of them are not sure about the structure and activities of a network but they want to be united and together to change their own cause.
Risk behavior:
Knowledge about HIV and AIDS:
Don't know what to do??
About service: Lack of proper counseling:
About Network:
48
BSWS Training Department offers training facilities for capacity development of NGO executives, different level managers, field worker, counselors, and target population in development field as a specialized training service providing wing...
THE TRAINING DEPARTMENT OF BSWS MANDATED IN CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT OF ITS PROJECT PARTICIPANTS
The
Training Department of BSWS began its journey from July 2001 in order to educating the people and/or community and also to provide trainings, conduct research, advocacy, counseling and other promotional activities in the NGO sector focusing on Human rights, HIV/AIDS and Gender development. BSWS Training Department offers tailor made training facilities for capacity development of the NGO executives, managers of different levels, field workers, counselors, and also other target population active in the development field. It could well establish a specialized training service providing wing under the Training Department. The Training department could achieve its strengths within the organizational system through participatory management, HR development, MIS, Monitoring & evaluation system and sustainable programming to support the development initiatives of BSWS. It provides wide range of services e.g. human development training, vocational training, and others service by utilizing high quality training professionals for its networking & partner organizations in NGO sector, especially who are working with sexual minority population. It also conducts orientation sessions, workshops and counseling sessions as well for its target groups.
Capacity Development initiatives for the Staff members of BSWS - 2012
51
Capacity Development: Process of Improvement
Capacity development initiatives for the Project Participants - 2012

SL
01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13
Name of the training/ Workshop

Training on Life Skill Education to MSM/hijra Vocational Training to Hijra Training for the Physicians on STI management Training on Leadership development Training on Rights, Sexual health and LGBT related national & International laws Training on Enhancing data management and skills of DIC Manager Training on Leadership Development Training on STI counseling Training on Gender and Sexuality Training on Life skill Training on documentation and report writing Training on Advocacy and human rights Training on resource mobilization and proposal writing
Types of Training
Basic
No. of participants
975 58
Sponsored by
GFATM-RCC GFATM-RCC GFATM-RCC MJF SAHRA Project DIVA Project DIVA Project DIVA Project DIVA Project DIVA Project DIVA Project DIVA Project DIVA
Basic Basic Basic Basic Basic Basic Basic Basic Basic Basic Basic
16 90 73 22 31 24 25 25 43 45 19
52
Capacity Development: Process of Improvement
BSWS believes in community participation in all of its activities. It organizes fashion shows, cultural programs, share & exchange of views with all the stakes and also celebrates the important days, where everybody belongs to BSWS participates with due fervor...
OPEN DAY SHARING & EXCHANGE THE VIEWS
BSWS
understands that it is very much necessary to share the views and advocate the relevant stakeholders with confidence about the struggles and successes without fear of being stigmatized and discriminated in order to responding the needs and concerns of Sexual minorities in Bangladesh. "Open Day" is programs, where sexual minority population from different group can meet, enjoy themselves, share & exchange their views. The 'Open Day' plays an effective role to bridge the needs & concerns and also support the networking members/organizations/CBOs/groups to be on the same plane with the contemporary national and international development on the sexual minorities. That also leads to strengthen collaboration and capacity among them. Four (04) Open Day programs had been organized during 2012 in four quarters. BSWS was the organizer of the events in the past, but in 2012 year all four Open Days was organized by networking members, as many & most momentous issues had been cropped up to focus during the programs. That had also been proved as the strength of community participation and networking. Four open day programs were organized respectively by Somparker Noya Shetu, Shustha Jibon (Hijra Org), Badhan Hijra Shangha (Hijra Org) and Shamoy Shangha (Lesbian Group). A total of 106 individuals were present in the programs. The gathering put forward some key recommendations, which are as follows:

The community based organization of marginalized group should be strengthened. Strengthening the collaboration of the like minded and community based organization and implementation of the commitments made. Emphasize on increase in mass awareness on the marginalized groups. Increase Media Advocacy and initiate publications of positive articles in the media. Increase and Expand the Legal Aid support towards the community. Screening of films based on the life of community people in to more public. To focus more on the sexual minority issues through increased numbers of community gathering or meeting like the open day, and that should be organized on a regular basis.
55
Community Participation: Hope of Revival
ESSENCE OF SOUL
"Essence of Soul" (Sattaya in Bangla) is now transformed from the name of Eminence. It has been expanded tremendously since its inception in the year 2006. "Sattaya" was initially formed in 2006 with 15 active potential community members from Paltan and Mirpur field offices. Its core aim was to:

Raise awareness within the general population about MSM and their role in society. Promote behavioral change among MSM and advocate for safe sex practice in their lives. Highlight the danger of HIV & AIDS and to demonstrate the leadership being provided in the HIV/AIDS struggle in Bangladesh by Kothis. Develop a vehicle for community empowerment.
BSWS organizes a cultural show every year as a part of its regular activity, where "Essence of Soul" performs a number of dance pieces during the vibrant nights of different forums. Sattaya was invited by National AIDS & STD Program (NASP) to perform dance in the 1st International AIDS Conference 2012 at the Osmani Memorial Hall, Dhaka in 2012. At that time a two-day conference was also held there, where many national and international organizations participated. After the plenary session NASP kept provision for entertainment in each day. To promote and encourage the capacity of community partners of STD network, a cultural subcommittee was formed where Shale Ahmed, Executive Director was actively involved. The cultural sub-committee of National AIDS Conference 2012 had decided to arrange the show utilizing available resources on Day One. The BSWS took the lead to organize the programme accordingly. A total of 10 performances were produced by Light House, Somporker Noya Setu, PIACT Bangladesh, Proyash and BSWS on that night. BSWS had received enormous positive feedback from the audience for organizing an international standard enlightening evening and performing such striking and cadenced show. BSWS believes that this kind of participation creates interest among sexual minorities in attending social events. On the other hand, it further creates a belief that they too are important member of the society. Looking back at the show we can say, it was 100% successful.
56
CELEBRATION OF IDAHO:
RAISE VOICE & KEEP COMMITMENT

BSWS had taken a range of program in 2012 as a part of its Policy Advocacy initiative and celebrating IDAHO is one of them. BSWS, in coordination with UNAIDS Bangladesh, celebrated the event both at the Central Level as well as Divisional levels in simultaneously on 17 May 2012. The theme of the event was "Raise Voice and Keep Commitment", as we aimed to raise voice against stigma and discrimination towards SOGI population. Around 150 participants from different sectors including community members, CBOs, NGOs and SHGs working with sexual minority community, Networking & Development partners, Human Rights Organizations, CSOs, Educational Institutes and Media participated in the overall celebration. To mark the day BSWS, in partnership with NAZ Foundation International, lunched a poster addressing the section 377 of Bangladesh Penal Code, arranged film screening on sexual minority issues and thematic discussion on Homophobia and trans-phobia.
DAY CELEBRATIONS
WORLD AIDS DAY
The world community celebrated the 25th World AIDS Day on 1st December 2012 which had started since 1988. The slogan of the day was marked as "Getting to Zero: Zero New HIV Infections, Zero Discrimination and Zero AIDS related Deaths". The World AIDS Day had been celebrated across the World. In order to celebrate the contemporary success, BSWS had participated both in the National AIDS Congress and observed the World AIDS Day at the central level. BSWS has celebrated the day at its Field Offices level with the close coordination of Local health authority. BSWS actively participated in different events organized by jointly GO and NGOs and could print a significant mark on those events. The major features of the day observance were rally, seminar, social mobilizing campaign, information booth/stall, BCC materials distribution, condom & lubricant distribution as well as message dissemination through performing the thematic cultural show both at central and DICs level. Centrally the cultural show performed by the ''Essence of Soul'' of BSWS at the venue of AIDS Congress.
57
INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS DAY

BSWS had celebrated the International Human Rights Day on 10th December 2012, both at its central and DICs level. The day was celebrated at the local level in coordination & close harmonization of likeminded organizations working on human right issues. The theme of the WHRD 2012 was "Inclusion and the right to participate in public life". BSWS actively took part in different events which organized by GO and NGOs and kept a noteworthy mark on it. This year the rest of the proposed activities under the Human Rights Day could not be conducted due to political instability, except arranging the legal camp. The legal camps were organized at the DICs level only and a number of project participants visited the camp for knowing as well as getting the legal consultation from the lawyers who were present at the camps.
WORLD HEALTH DAY

BSWS observed the World Health Day on 7 April 2012 through various activities in collaboration with GO and NGO. The manifestation of celebrating the day was "Ageing and Health". The objectives of the day observance were as follows:

Improve the awareness of the general people. Improve the health conditions of the ageing people. Strengthen the GO and NGO Coordination. Enhance the Coordination with CSOs. Joint effort of GO and NGO need to be enhanced to prevent TB.
Significant events of the day were rally, discussion sessions, meetings, which were organized by BSWS. The active participation of the representatives of GO, NGOs, local Government representatives, teachers, students as well as the people from different walks of life made the day successful. BSWS played an effective & active role as a pioneer of health services provider organizations.
WORLD TB DAY
BSWS observed the World TB Day 2012 on 24 March 2012 with the coordination of the government and non government organizations. As a part of HIV/AIDS prevention program, BSWS is also providing services to control TB in Bangladesh by sputum collection and screening through referral for testing and DOT. The theme of the year was "Stop TB in my lifetime".
CELEBRATION OF INTERNATIONAL CANDLE LIGHT MEMORIAL DAY

The day was observed as the 29th International AIDS Candle Light Memorial Day jointly by NASP and different development partners especially organizations working with PLHIV on 16 May 2012. A discussion meeting was held at Ashar Alo Society Office as a part of the day observance. Bringing solidarity for the HIV infected people, treatment and care and support for the Positive people was the major emphasis of the discussion of the day. Discussion on ARV and its results was also held and technical personnel working for the HIV & AIDS positive people had participated in the discussion. Exertion on screening properly the blood serum for detecting HIV in different government and private hospitals was mentioned during the discussion. It felt the need to refer positive people for proper care and support to ensure their safer life and reducing the vulnerability.
58
BSWS has a firm understanding that it would not achieve its targeted goals & objectives without international support and also without sharing the experiences they are facing in working with the sexual minority...
CONSULTATION ON HIV, STI AND OTHER HEALTH NEEDS OF TRANSGENDER PEOPLE IN ASIA AND THE PACIFIC
Consultation on HIV, STIs and other health needs of TG people in Asia and the Pacific during September 2012, which was jointly organized by WHO, UNDP, UNAIDS and APTN.
It needs to be mentioned that the transgender populations appear to have one of the highest prevalence rates in some Asian cities and countries, ranging from 8% to 31%: 31% for Bangkok in 2007; 29% in Myanmar; 22% for Jakarta in 2002; and 8.7% for Phnom Penh in 2005. However, the regional assessment report on HIV, STI and other sexual health needs among transgender people reveals that transgender population throughout the Asia Pacific region are still underserved and have limited access to transgender-specific HIV, STI and other sexual health services. Lessons learnt from working with sex workers and men who have sex with men have strongly suggested that the needs of transgender people are different from other high-risk groups. In order to effectively address the unmet and emerging health needs of transgender people, it is critically important to promote meaningful involvement of transgender representatives and key transgender network partners. This consultation was the first of its kind to be convened by the WHO Regional Office for the Western Pacific to address the unmet and emerging health needs for transgender people, using HIV/STI as an entry point. The consultation aims to reach consensus among partners and stakeholders on the recommendations of the regional assessment report, review the proposed regional technical briefs as practical guidance, and identify priority next steps and collaborative activities among key partners. The key objectives of the consultation as follows:
to reach consensus on the recommendations of the regional assessment report of HIV, STI and other health needs of transgender people in Asia and the Pacific; and based on this, to develop regional technical briefs to inform policy and guide programmes on HIV, STI and other essential health needs among transgender people in Asia and the Pacific; and to identify priority next steps and collaborative activities to advocate and implement the technical brief to enhance transgender health in the Region.
61
BSWS: Looking Abroad
The Executive Director of Bandhu Social Welfare Society (BSWS) Mr. Shale Ahmed had been invited by the World Health Organization (WHO) and had participated the consultation and contributed to produce a Technical Brief of TG populations as well a working definition of Transgender population in the region.
REGIONAL WORKSHOPS ON HIV PREVENTION AMONG MSM AND TRANSGENDER PERSONS

The Executive Director of BSWS Mr. Shale Ahmed represented BSWS at the regional workshop series, which was jointly organized by the U.S. President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), office of the Global AIDS Coordinator (OGAC), with additional support from the centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). It was supported by PEPFAR's Key Populations and Gender Technical Working Groups. The workshop was held at Bangkok during 28 & 30 August 2012. The workshops provided a forum for the dissemination of the 2011 MSM Technical Guidance for combination prevention for men who have sex with men as well as state -of -the art knowledge on relevant topics in HIV prevention among MSM and TG for Community, civil society, practitioners, health service managers, and government. The Asia regional workshop is the second in a two part series, with the first in Johannesburg, South Africa, that focuses on issues specific to HIV prevention, care and treatment among MSM in their respective regions. This workshop has been convened by a program committee headed by Dr. Tonia Poteat, Senior Advisor for Key Populations, OGAC. The workshop objectives were: 1. Provide workshop participants with up-to-date, evidence-based strategic information on the prevention, care and treatment needs of MSM through lecture and interactive formats (e.g. practicum, breakout, sessions):
Overview of the 2011 PEPFAR MSM Technical Guidance describing the comprehensive package of core interventions for MSM, with attention to regional application of the guidance. Current status, best practices lessons learned, and impact of HIV prevention programs for MSM; topics will highlight coverage, access linkage and quality of intervention components. Current status, best practices lessons learned, and effectiveness of HIV treatment services (antiretroviral therapy) for HIV-positive MSM, including attention to availability, accessibility, quality, and coverage, as well as adherence, support, and retention to antiretroviral therapy
2. Provide workshop participants with the knowledge and tools to enhance their ability to set targets for, monitor, and evaluate programmatic efforts targeting MSM at national and sub-national levels. This will be accomplished, at least in part, through the facilitation of group exercises that allow country teams to work together to set tentative targets for MSM prevention programming. 3. Provide workshop participants with the opportunity to share country experiences, provide feedback about best practices and challenges of MSM programming, and develop collaborative relationships among stakeholders in various countries. 4. The workshop participants were provided with the opportunity to identify: 1) technical assistance needs related to the implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of comprehensive HIV prevention, care, and treatment services for MSM, and 2) sources for technical assistance, including both headquarters and field resources.
62
CONNECTIONS, COALITIONS AND A CALL TO STEP UP ACTION

NATIONAL CONSULTATION ON HIV AMONG MSM AND TRANSGENDERED POPULATIONS IN BANGLADESH
Key players from the public health sector, civil society and international agencies have convened in Dhaka for a national consultation on HIV among men who have sex with men and transgendered persons in Bangladesh. The question: How to urgently strengthen these vulnerable communities' capacity to access prevention and treatment services at a time when the rate of new infections appears to be on the rise. Bandhu Social Welfare Society (BSWS) in collaboration with ICDDR, B, organized this national consultation between 23rd-25th March 2012 seeks to take stock how approaches have worked to date in Bangladesh, to clearly identify the gaps that exist and coalesce various stakeholders together to reach out to MSM and hijra populations in a country where they continue to be criminalized and marginalized, a situation that contributes to driving the HIV epidemic further underground. The consultation was inaugurated by a number of speakers from the Government, the diplomatic corps, human rights activists and international agencies including AKM Amir Hossain, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare; Her Excellency Anneli Lindhal Kenny, Ambassador of Sweden; Dr. Tasnem Azim, Centre for HIV and AIDS, ICDDR,B; Sara Hossain, human rights lawyer; Dr. Munir Ahmed, Acting Country Coordinator, UNAIDS; Dr. Mohammed Abdul Waheed, Line Director, National AIDS/STD Program, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Other distinguished attendees included Paritosh K. Deb, Manager, ATB; Dr. Shah Alam, Senior Programme Manager, ICDDR, B; Shaheen Anam, Executive Director, Manusher Jonno Foundation; and Harun Rashid, Assistant Programme Manager, ICDDR, B. "While overall HIV prevalence remains low in Bangladesh, there is increasing evidence that current prevention efforts are reaching only a narrow band of MSM and transgender populations in our country," noted Shale Ahmed, Executive Director of BSWS. "There is no time for complacency. We need to quickly expand HIV prevention efforts by ensuring that government, public health, civil society and international donors sharpen their collective focus on this issue before the statistics become truly alarming." "While some progress has been made in Bangladesh, to improve prevention, care and treatment services for MSM and hijra populations there needs to be an improvement in the policy environment regarding these communities, along with an improvement in knowledge about how HIV is impacting them," explained Mr Munir Ahmed, UNAIDS Bangladesh . Dr. Tasnim Azim of the Centre for HIV and AIDS at ICDDR, B, concurred. "What this consultation has done is bring stakeholders from across the spectrum together to share information, experiences and lessons learnt, and for these stakeholders to then strategize on a concrete way forward to improve and expand MSM and hijra-specific HIV prevention, treatment and care services. In other words, we must convert talk into action while we still have an opportunity to contain and reduce the epidemic among these communities who, let us not forget, are a bridge to the wider population as well." After updates of the last two in-country regional consultations conducted at Bogra and Chittagong were discussed, participants were given an opportunity to engage in several thematic workshops intended to ensure that practical steps emerged from the latest consultation. Workshop themes included:
63
Outreach services for men who have sex with men who are also married, with a view to protecting them as well as their female partners Counselling and psychosocial and mental health support for MSM and transgendered persons, including those living with HIV and AIDS Formulating public policy to target the stigma and discrimination MSM and transgendered populations face, and finding ways to strengthen their social inclusion Monitoring and evaluation of HIV prevention, treatment and care services, including the distribution of condoms and lubricants
"None of these approaches in themselves are new, especially after 30 years of HIV globally," said Shale Ahmed. "In country after country, the basic approaches to HIV prevention, treatment and care are very similar, given that human nature is universal. But we need to customize these approaches within the socio-cultural context of Bangladesh and the realities of our vulnerable, hard-to-reach communities. We have learnt a lot from other countries within South Asia and beyond. It's time for us - government and community organizations alike -- to put these lessons to good use and implement our home-grown strategies to protect our communities now and in the future."
64
Bandhu Social Welfare Society was formed in 1996 to address concerns of human rights abuse and denial of sexual health rights, and provide a rights-based approach to health and social services for the most stigmatized and vulnerable sexual minority population in Bangladesh, in particular the MSM/kothis/hijras and their partners....
Who is BSWS?
Bandhu
Social Welfare Society (BSWS) was formed in 1996 to address concerns of human rights abuse and denial of sexual health rights, and provide a rights-based approach to health and social services for the most stigmatized and vulnerable sexual minority population in Bangladesh, in particular the MSM, kothis/hijras and their partners. The organization was born in response to surveillance studies and a needs assessment, which identified MSM as a population in need of different services in Bangladesh. BSWS has been officially registered in 1997, with support from the Royal Norwegian Embassy, through a small program in Central Dhaka, and at that time it was run by only two staff members. It has emerged as a national 'MSM' nongovernment organization over the years and is now currently providing social and health services to a large number of sexual minority communities in 21 districts with the active support of over 600 employees. The key objective of the BSWS is to work with MSM/TG through advocating and creating an enabling environment, where the respect and dignity of all MSM, Hijras/TG is assured irrespective of their specific gender and/or sexual identity. BSWS understands that the creation of a supportive social, policy and legal environment is important for helping MSM/TG communities in implementing effective programs on sexual health rights, basic human rights along with increasing their health seeking behaviors. The BSWS follows a model that provides health and other services through Male Health Centers (MHC) at the field level. The MHC provides both safe spaces for community, the opportunity for HIV prevention and for referrals for STI treatment and care. The current services that BSWS provides to 'MSM and Hijra/TG', which reflect the key objective of community strengthening, and mobilizing to more effectively engage in governance, policy development and sexual health and rights service delivery focuses on three key areas, which are as follows: Community development and response include the provision of safe spaces for community development and mobilizing to respond to the HIV crisis, outreach and community building services, health education & distribution of sexual health products, knowledge generation, capacity development, networking, information dissemination, policy development and advocacy. Social Welfare and support services include the social support services, Psychosexual and psychosocial counseling, Livelihood skills program.
CASE MANAGEMENT MODEL

BSWS also utilize a case management model where clients move from receiving field services to becoming regular members. This is possible for the kothi (feminized MSM) who identify as a community. But, it does not apply for panthi (masculine MSM) who come from all walks of life. So, most services are aimed at kothi, while panthi/non Kothi also accesses the services. The organization recognized as a best practice model by UNAIDS in 2001 and in coordination with national AIDS/STD program in Bangladesh it has also now on the way to formation of National taskforce on HIV and Human rights for MSM and TG population.
67
BSWS: A Glimpse of the Voyage
Health services include the management of STIs and general health treatment services, HIV voluntary testing and counseling, care and support services, referrals for ARV access and other health services.
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
HIV epidemics start and spread in many ways in different places, but the epidemic is consistently accompanied by fear, blame and prejudice. Not only in terms of the virus itself, but also in regard to behaviors that place people at risk to HIV. While poor and marginalized people are disproportionately vulnerable to HIV/AIDS, this is further exacerbated for males who have sex with males, whether sexual behavior is linked with a self-identity (gender based or sexual orientation) or not. Males who have sex with other males and who self-identify with the feminine, along with poverty, low income, and low literacy, are often highly stigmatized and socially excluded. BSWS attaches importance to the need to focus limited resources to those who are most vulnerable and socially excluded, and where it could be made the most difference to slow the spread of the epidemic and to mitigate its impact. This requires focused support to the most vulnerable and at risk populations of 'MSM' "hijra" population a complete and meaningful involvement of these populations, and a commitment to empowerment for such populations also to address the area of sexual diversity.
FOSTERING COMMUNITY OWNERSHIP AND CAPACITY ENHANCEMENT

The most successful responses to HIV/AIDS and other development challenges are built upon local leadership, commitment and responsibility, supported by knowledge, learning and resources from partners and stakeholders. Peer frameworks and self-help organizing are well placed to facilitate community building and development and facilitate peer support for behavior change and risk reduction. Given their role in catalyzing and support peer responses, BSWS strongly supports the development of self-help groups and community organizations, and their accessibility to increased resources, relevant information and skills. In turn the performance of such organizations and groups should be measured against their contributions to community capacity and their influence on broader policy and action. BSWS alone cannot fulfill the total needs of the MSM and Hijra population, in particular the HIV/AIDS and improve sexual health needs. To address emergent and unmet needs, BSWS needs collaboration and partnerships at local, community national and international levels. Working together with different 'MSM' networks, organizations, groups and leaders, while respecting and acknowledging differences and each other's independence can bring active collaboration. Transparency, critical thinking, learning and sharing, are all essential elements of such successful partnerships and enhance the response to HIV/AIDS.
BSWS: A Glimpse of the Voyage
OWNERSHIP AND SELF-DETERMINATION

All self-help groups and community-based organizations have a right to independently determine their own priorities and polices, and a responsibility to maintain accountability, transparency and effective stewardship of resources contributed by taxpayers and private individuals. BSWS is committed to build capacity to act effectively and ethically in its direct programs and its support to other groups to avoid conflict of interest or the appearance of conflict of interest, to remain impartial and fair in its decision making, and to maintain a particular responsibility to those works with and other 'MSM' populations.
68
BSWS Goals, Principles and Strategic Approaches

Based on performance review of Strategic Plan 2007-2011, organizational SWOT analysis and discussions within the organization, the goals were set in the BSWS Strategic Plan 2012-2016, which are as follows:
Goal 1:
Enhanced coverage and quality of comprehensive sexual and reproductive health services including HIV for sexual minority communities and their partners Reduced physical, social and legal harassment and stigma of sexual minority communities Enhanced decision making ability of the sexual minority communities in program and policy issues Improved livelihood for the sexual minority communities Enhanced capacity and sustainability of the BSWS organization
Goal 2: Goal 3: Goal 4: Goal 5:
STRATEGIC PRINCIPLES
Service provision: The BSWS would continue to provide necessary sexual, reproductive and HIV services to the sexual minorities communities directly or in conjunction with partners. BSWS dedicated to develop and provide appropriate sensitive services to the communities till such sensitivities develop among the other service providers. BSWS will take initiatives to develop such skill through working with the partners. Education and Communication: The activities of BSWS will include necessary education and communication elements to enhance the outcome of the activities. Appropriate education and communication materials and messages will include service provisions such as STI management or condom promotion. Evidence based advocacy with stakeholders: The services of BSWS will be complemented by evidence-based advocacy with stakeholders. For best possible outcomes, the advocacies will be based on country or appropriate evidence. BSWS will invest required resource and efforts to generate, collect and develop such evidences. Engagement of sexual minorities: BSWS will facilitate engagement of sexual minority communities in all core activities. This will help to develop appropriate sensitive services and will facilitate empowerment and owning of the communities. Capacity development of stakeholders: The activities of BSWS will have the in built process of developing capacity of the communities, either as individual or in groups. BSWS believes that the incremental increase of community capacity will improve self-esteem of the community and reduce stigma and discrimination. Networking and alliance building: BSWS through its activities continuously pursue to strengthen network with like-minded person or organizations and will work for greater alliance building to achieve the goal for the communities.
69
BSWS A Glimpse of the Voyage
STRATEGIC APPROACHES
Rights-based approach: The designing and planning of BSWS program and activities will be targeted on realizations of basic rights of the communities. Appropriate attention and analysis will be used during the program development process. Continuous efforts will be taken to realize necessary rights through developing different activities and services. BSWS will practice caution not to be misdirected to develop unsustainable services. Targeted approach: BSWS recognized that the community it works with has micro culture, sensitiveness and special need. They are also stigmatized and marginalized, mainstream services will not able to cater their need. BSWS continue to focus on development of community specific and culturally sensitive services for each community. Inclusive approach: Although BSWS will continue to develop services for community in targeted approach, it will employ inclusive approaches to facilitate the service delivery. Stakeholders community and non-community around the services will be included for better output. Noncommunity people will be involved in advocacy, program management and creating enabling environment. Accountability and transparency: BSWS will continue to demonstrate accountability and transparency in all its activities, irrespective of whether it's programmatic or financial. BSWS committed to accountability and transparency to community, organizational members, and donors and to the Govt. Community and SHG development: The activities of BSWS will be focused on development of community individually or as a whole. BSWS will facilitate mobilization of community so that micro level groups could be formed. BSWS will work with these groups to enhance the self-esteem and skill of the community, reduction of stigma and discrimination and realization of basic rights.
70
BSWS A Glimpse of the Voyage
Common challenges across the integrated program for key populations highlighted the need to follow good practice principles on programming for these communities. These include the need to address stigma and discrimination, legal supports, demand generation, gender inequalities, building a generic essential package for HIV/SRHR, service provider attitudes and capacity. That requires ensuring rights based approaches, adequate and appropriate evidence and information to understand diverse needs, strong referral systems, and adequate and sustainable technical and financial support.
Key Challenges
Now a day the sustainable alternate livelihood option for the MSW came out as a big challenge for us. BSWS is continuously trying to overcome the situation by designing and intervening in program focusing on the issues.
There are more challenges within the MSM and Hijra/TGs on societal, cultural and individual aspects. These include: Coming-out of dilemmas: Given today's socio-cultural realities, an early dilemma is whether or not to "come out", to identify self as a Sexual minority person. Most of the time, the person may find that uncertainties about his/her sexual orientation persist well into adulthood and delay coming-out decisions. Family acceptance: Parents and siblings have trouble in accepting a family member's with Kothi identity, and sometimes a family member acts out with hostility and provocation. In such cases, usually the person (Kothi) experience rejection or harassment by loved ones for a time, and this can lead to personal emotional difficulties and to awkward social situations involving other Kothi friends and partners. Internalized homophobia: The Bangladesh culture creates an atmosphere that isn't friendly or supportive toward a Kothi's lifestyles. Most of the Kothi's grown up in such a stridently censoring atmosphere that they internalized the negative notions. Hearing strange and unfounded notions about their lifestyle is a regular experience of a Kothi. Committed partnerships: Long-term, committed, intimate relationships need external socio-cultural supports in order to flourish, and LGBT relationships often suffer both lack of social support and negative pressures that undermine relationships.
71
Key Challenges
2012 was an important transitional year for BSWS, marked both by the overcoming of a crisis which ensued as the result of the previous year and emergence of new opportunities and challenges. The Executive Committee has given BSWS the opportunity to start a serious rethinking of its operational structure and systems and to begin the process of transforming BSWS into a more effective and professional organization, capable of reaching out to its member organizations while gaining credibility as a provider of information, knowledge and expertise to both of its Sexual Minority and non Sexual Minority stakeholders.
The Way
Forward
BSWS into a more effective and professional organization, capable of reaching out to its member organizations while gaining credibility as a provider of information
We are pleased with the dedication of our many generous institutional funders. Their supports help the organization to move for awareness of a response to systematic human rights violations against people on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity, sexual expression or practices from the margins of the human rights movements more solidly in to the mainstream. There is still need to strengthen the capacity of BSWS Staff on community mobilization, especially in the areas of analysis and mainstreaming. BSWS will continue its focus on overall sexual minority populations in particular MSM and Hijra/TGs to ensure their rights as human, aware the mass people to eliminate the discrimination towards them; capacitate the target population through enhancing their skills to ensure an enlightened future.
72
The Way Forward
Bandhu Social Welfare Society experienced numerous success in providing support to its project clients in bringing changes in their life & living, as they can now think of being self sufficient after being suffered tormented lives...
LIVELIHOOD PROGRAM FOR PROJECT PARTICIPANTS:
KEY ACHIEVEMENTS
BSWS
believes that an important approach to sustainable development is ensuring livelihood development by providing with appropriate amount of resources in order to ensure economic freedom, and has been relentlessly working for bringing the efforts in to reality. Occupational skill development training courses are designed for those who are eager to improve their economic condition through income generating activities. These courses are offered with a view to enable the participants with relevant knowledge and appropriate skills so that they can take appropriate decisions in selection and implementation of various income generation activities. These courses also assist the participants to identify and mobilize the human and material resources for developing their economic status. The skills developmenttraining courses are provided to field based staff so that they can extend their services to the beneficiaries. The skill development training courses are also organized in both formal and nonformal settings, as other human development courses. The final output of the training were not only in terms of delivering this training to the entrepreneurs of the Promotion of MSM/Hijra for Economic Empowerment project, also to develop the advanced level skills that are high on the complex dimensions. It could be said that this is essential for the sustained attainment of the livelihood goals. Knowledge level and hands on skill on management capacity had also been enhanced among them. BSWS is eager to implement trade based Skill development Training for its member to increase the income by producing quality products and maintaining healthy business of entire working area considering the capacity, strengths & experiences of the livelihood development sector. BSWS organized different types of training courses for the selected members of different district according to the agreements with the project authority. BSWS conducted practical skill development training to its beneficiaries on different subjects during the 2012, which are as follows:
FEW STORIES OF SUCCESS FOLLOWS:
"SARIKA SAJ BEAUTY PARLOR" BROUGHT BADSHA'S DREAM IN TO REALITY

Atikur Rahman Badsha has read up to class eight. Due to the economic crisis of his family's he was compelled to stop his education after class eight and began working at that early age. He has born in a poor family and his father was a rickshaw puller and mother was a house wife. His family had to fast if his father could not pull rickshaw on any day due to illness or for some other reason. Now his parents are unemployed due to old age and totally dependent upon Badsha. He has three sisters and one brother.
75
Stories of Change in Life & Living
Badsha engaged himself in various risky jobs at his early age to support his father and family. At first he joined a garment after stopping his education. But, it was too hard to bear the pressure of the hard work at the premature age. He couldn't continue with the garment and he joined in an NGO as a field worker after leaving the garment. But, he could not achieve success as he had no skills.
The BSWS Executive Director Mr. Shale Ahmed is inaugurating the Beauty Parlor
Badsha heard about BSWS through one of his friend Badol during 2010. He visited BSWS along with Badol and came to know that Mirpur Filed Office provides vocational training to their poor beneficiaries through the support of MJF project. He showed his interest on beauticians training, which he dreamt of from his childhood. He received three month-long training during 2010 and after completion of the training he started working outdoor, kind of home service. He started feeling that a good beautician has a very good demand. He started deposited some money what he earned from his work. Then he received a loan of Taka 30,000 from "ASA Samity'' where he had to deposit Taka 1,470 per week. His loan is supposed to be refunded by 46 weeks. He opened his own parlor at Mirpur Bouniabad adjacent his house with that loan. Now his monthly net profit is 4,000 taka and he can contribute his family without much trouble. Mr. Atikur Rahman Badsha, beneficiary of Mirpur Field Office has named "Sarika Saj Beauty Parlor". Executive Director of Bandhu Social Welfare Society Mr. Shale Ahmed inaugurated that parlor on 14 May 2012. Badsha once said that "I was always feeling upset about my future and thought that I will not be able to fulfill my dream. But, now I am on way to reach my dream and BSWS is the media to make it happen". He expresses his gratitude to BSWS. In future he wants to set up a more decorated parlor in a suitable place.
76
If the aim is definite and tried sincerely to achieve that the success must come one day and Badsha is an example of it. He is now a good example of stigmatized sexual minorities in Dhaka.
YUNUS MOVING WITH THE WHEELS

Yunus passed class eight. He had also to stop his education due to the economic crisis of his family. Yunus was born in a poor family and his father was a day labor. His family had the same plight of poverty as Badsha's family. Yunus has one younger sister. Yunus engaged himself in various works at his early age to help his father. At first, he worked in a car garage where he had to work very hard. At that time he had been introduced to many drivers and he began to nourish a dream to be a driver and also to drive his own car. He couldn't continue with the garage and started a new work as a painter on daily basis. While working as a painter, he worked as an Assistant of a Videographer in different ceremony and in package programs. He could not help much his family to bring in solvency even after putting up much hard work. Yunus was informed about Bandhu Social Welfare Society through Mannan, an active beneficiary of Chittagong Field Office, Muradpur. Yunus was Mannan's Parik. He used to come to Chittagong Field Coordination Office (Halishahor DIC) regularly. After he came to BSWS he was informed that BSWS will provide Vocational Training on some trades. He showed his interest in driving and thought that it is the high time to fulfill his dream. After completion of the need assessment on driving trade he was selected for the training. The driving class had started from 02.09.2010 and ended on 20.12.2010. This Under this support project was activity supported by the Manusher Jonno there are four Foundation (MJF) and the service provider organization beneficiaries who was New Bengal Technical. Md. Yunus (Registration no: 01/26/01/43), of Chittagong is a beneficiary of Bandhu Social Welfare Society, Chittagong Field Coordination Office (Halishahor DIC), Chittagong. His cruising spot was Oxygen, Chittagong. After successfully completion the driving course, BSWS also helps financially and technically the beneficiaries to get an original driving license after successful completion of the course. Under this support there are four beneficiaries who had taken the opportunity and Yunus is one of them. After getting the driving permission, he joined in a private driving service for two months and earned Taka 7,000/= (Seven thousand only) per month after getting the driving license. Then he started driving on daily basis in Muradpur to Fatikchhori route and everyday he earned Taka 400 to 500 and his monthly net income got on to Taka 10,000 to 15,000 after meeting all his expenses and through this he is trying to bring solvency in his family. Every month he deposited some money and in future he will be able to purchase a reconditioned Micro and will drive in the same route and then his income will increase up to Taka 20,000 to 25,000.
Once Yunus said, "In the past I was always worried about my future, family, my old parents. But BSWS driving course and legal license made me tension free". He also said "I worked in the
77
had taken the opportunity and Yunus is one of them. After getting the driving permission, he joined in a private driving service for two months and earned Taka 7,000/= (Seven thousand only) per month after getting the driving license.
garage, worked as painter and also worked for package program in whole night. I have seen what suffering was." I am experienced to face the life, suffered a lot, tried a lot to change life and frustrated on my life as well as on the society. But now, I am telling there are some organizations in the world, which take care of those people like me". "Now, by the grace of Allah and the support of BSWS I am Yunus Driver who is leading a happy life. I will remain grateful to Bandhu Social Welfare Society in my whole life" said Md. Yunus.
STEPS TOWARDS EMPOWERED

Mohin has learned to fight against all Obstacles from his Reality of life. He has lost his mother in early childhood. His father gets married again and mohin and his only sister are driven away from home by stapes mother and her relatives. From then mohin is under shelter of his grand mother at Natok ghor by lane, Mymensingh town. From childhood Mohin has to help his maternal uncle in family business of bettel leaf after back from school, while most of his same aged ware busy in playing. Mohins maternal uncle (Mama) is illiterate and very weak in financial calculation and transaction. Several times he faces problems in cash dealings with his business party's, Mohin is a beneficiary of Mymensingh field office. In November-2011 he has joined in our savings attitude development group and has successfully saved 115/-taka. Though his saving amount is poor but he has developed a positive attitude towards saving. Now Mohin is the student of class ten at Mukul Niketon School, A famous institution of mymensingh. After joining in Jamuna Group, Mohin feels that, he have to save some money for the future and he is able to handle a bank account which will be very helpful to save money as well as a risk free financial transaction for family business. Mohin also share it to his mama, he highly appreciated this. We introduce mohin to bank. And help him to open the account. Mohin is proud that he has a bank account (Dutch-Bangla bank ltd. Mymensingh branch. Number is 156.101.219707) none of his friend has that, so they ask him to know how to open and operate a bank account. As a sexual minority community member with feminized behavior, most of his friends are not confident enough to open and operate a bank account. Mohin is regularly trying to make them sensitized to be more mainstreamed by sharing his own experience and facilities about bank account. Some of saving group member has sensitized about account and recently going to open. Mohin is saving money some money each month in his account and his mama is making business transaction by help of him. This ordinary bank account is great meaningful to his life, its makes him confident to fight against all existing discrimination of society for sexual minorities.
78
Case Study of Computer Learning

gv: kwdKzj Bmjvg mygb
ivRevox mì , y i c v K vg i t , Mv g v I I msmvi i vt mwy dqv eMg K vZ v g o c , v -v L vj j g vqi y jwZd ci Avj Avq Zvi `yB f i q v wcZvt gZ g U fvj jvMZ bv| v K e wb a we vi Z i vI c vb i y k Z g Uvi cov HSC cixvi nvqZvq KwD ivRevox| wcZvi m | j K wQ vw_ o A c i q n b vb Ki vBk DUvi Gi `vK cwiPvibv Kiv K gvbyli Rb d w K i v U m K wd G A g _ evox wd q eyK wbq c 000 wjwgUW-Gi bvi cZ -2 BSWS- ivR v wb vo wU ` m q wW v c Z x i vRevo ci wbR gvm _K gvU Z _vK| ci i i R y cw kY cvIqvi ve L x i A vK P i v j U v m Ges GK 000.00 (cvP x i Ki 2011 5 i z vK q P KvR i Kib c e v w y m e wn b Z i e Uvi AcviU vBK ve| Germi Zvi m wn b Z Awdm KwD vkvcvwk QvU f e c K vi vwm vb g k v v vK o U c ) i R Lb vRvi 4000.00 (Pvi n GB UvKv w`q wb K mnvqZv KiQ| m Avkv iv wb wZ b v g Z e i qQ| vi gv fve mnvqZv K nvRvi) UvKv n vi cwiPvjbvq Z K m vw_ s A m s K v e Z G e b fv cviQ e| ez Awdm Kvb w` covkvbv KivZ h I jvLevb nZ cvi L i wk v e g v i R v _ A A y q Q vb w` wbRi Avqi wK wDUvii `vK K v U K G i K Z g Zvn m wbRi
gv: Bgivb gvjv

wcZvt gvt Avyj Qvvi gvj-v, gvZvt gvQvt QwKbv eMg, Mvgt eoPi ebxbMi WvKNit ivRevox, DcRjvt ivRevox mì, Rjvt ivRevox| wZwb GB cwkb Mnbi ci WmwUwb-2002 wjwgUW (vB bU) Gi Kvhvjq KwgcDUvi AcviUi wnmve KgiZ AvQ| eZgvb m 3000.00UvKv gvwmK eZb cq wbR wbRi LiP Pvwjq hvQ | m Avgvì mnvhZvq hLb cwkb Mnb Ki ZLb Abvm 1g eli Qv wQj| cvBfU cwoq m wbRi jLv covi LiP wbP RvMvo KiZ| eZgvb m wbRi Avq wbRi jLvcovi LiPi cvkvcvwk Zvi cwieviK Avw_K fve mnvqZv KiQ| KgKv e _vKvi Kvib SzwK c~Y AvPib _K weiZ AvQ|
79
gv: ivKb wmK`vi
yi, WvKNit c e ` v n g t g v M , g , gvZvt iwngv eM vi ` K wm GKRb Mixei R g m v Z x| vo e vR i wcZvt gZ vt j ie ivRevox mì, R vt j R Pj hvq| m wK K c D q v , h i c M b vi e n m~h e v Afve Zvi covkvb b Ki| m hnZz n M k s A b k w c Nii mvb| UvKvi x i vR jvMe| hvq| ci m KvixM K q v n i v v vi A n K k v w` Z v e U b Zv f iQ ZvB GB cw k K vV c vKvb KvR KiQ ` R v U j K K G b v g Z e KvixMwi m vi covi cvkv cvwk 2000.00 UvKv L m j v g i K m l k K b _ Lvb cw k UvKwci KvR| m d I iP Pvwjq hvQ| vR L vi K vb k vi v o c i KwDU R wb es GB UvKv w`q m G vq c e v m wn x i gyR
wcZvt gZ gbQi gvj-v, gvZvt Qwgib, Mvgt gwjqvU, WvKNit iZbw`qv, DcRjvt cvskv, Rjvt ivRevox| eo Afvei msmvi Zvì| A_i Afve Zvi co vkvbv e nq hvq| m jvBU nvDR GbwRIZ wcqvi GWyKUi c` bvqvLvw jZ wKQy w`b KvR Ki| wK h UvKv eZb cZ Zv w`q Zvi Geq Zvi weaev gvqi ms mvi Pvjvbv KKi wQj Ges AbK `yi Aevb Kivq Zvi gvK `Lv kvbv Kiv I covkvbv Kiv me nwQj bv| m ivRevox miKvix KjR GBP Gm wm Z fwZ nq Ge fwZi mgq AAgvì wc Gd wU AvnevqK (whwb GB KjRi mvi) Avw_K fve mnvqZv Kib| ci PvKix Qo evox Pj Gm m Avi c_ PjZ cvi bv| wK KwDUvi cwkb Mnb kl m KvjyLvwjZ GKUv KwUvii `vKvb KvR i Ki 50.00 UvKv w`b ( w`b 4 NUv) i Ki| ci ivRevox wW AvB wm Z wcqvi GW yKUi wnmve PvKixiZ AvQ eZgvb Ges Awdm m KwDUvii KvR mnhvwMZ v KiQ|
ey v e : v g
gv: AvRnvij Bmjvg
x cvov, WvKNit ivRevo vwU g t g v M , g M e v q vb, gvZvt mywd KiQ bv cw kb vR K vb K wcZvt gvt Bmjvg L m vb g eZ q , Rjvt ivRevox| vi covkvbvi GKUv wel Z | DcRjvt ivRevox mì Q w` v ix c wm m m GBP G mnhvwMZv KiQ _ h b Kivi ciI| eZgvb Mn vi vb vk o c v| GB cw kb Zvi e nQ KwDUvi wk ej m ge Kib|
80
Financial Statement
Bandhu Social Welfare Society (BSWS)
Statement of Financial Position as on 31 December 2012
Notes ASSETS Property, Plant & Equipment Advances, Deposits and Prepayments Investment in FDR Loan to Projects and others Receivables from donar Cash and Cash Equivalents 3 4 5 6 7 8 7,484,619 1,178,320 2,000,000 2,505,807 10,020,686 17,062,421 40,251,853 LIABILITIES & NET ASSETS Grant received in Advance Donor Fund Investment in property, plant and equipment Liabilities for Expenses Other Liabilities Loan Capital Fund 9 10 11 12 13 16,167,022 6,119,020 4,100,074 1,533,946 298,300 12,033,491 40,251,853 17,122,509 8,195,419 2,792,115 140,725 586,675 11,691,407 40,528,850 8,199,669 1,470,795 2,000,000 288,375 9,961,006 18,609,005 40,528,850 31.12.2012 Taka 31.12.2011 Taka
The annexed notes form an integral part of these Financial Statement.
Chairperson
Executive Director
Assistant Director Finance & Administration
Signed in terms of our separate report of even date annexed.
Dated, Dhaka, 22 May 2013
S. F. Ahmed & Co. Chartered Accountants
81
Financial Statement
Financial Statement
Notes INCOME Grants Income Other Income 14 15 171,522,912 2,711,537 174,234,449 EXPENDITURE Project Expences Salaries & Benefits Program Operational Costs General Office Expenses/Operational Costs Consultants & Professional Fees Bank Charges Travel & Transportation Other Direct/Program Cost Paid to Partners / Projects Depreciation Excess/(Deficit) of Income over Expenditure 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 116,663,086 396,993 138,740 1,724,521 9,623 640 118,600 51,840,767 3,364,709 174,257,679 (23,230) 174,234,449 102,370,310 927,219 954,764 513,929 131,000 8,400 7,874 34,762,551 3,460,236 143,136,283 1,354,787 144,491,070 140,537,153 3,953,917 144,491,070 2012 Taka 2011 Taka
Financial Statement
Chairperson
Executive Director
Signed in terms of our separate report of even date annexed.
Dated, Dhaka, 22 May 2013
S. F. Ahmed & Co. Chartered Accountants
82

Notes
RECEIPTS Opening Balances: Cash in Hand Cash at Bank Foreign Donation Other Finance Bank Interest Project Closing Amount Advance Realized Security Deposit Loan Received from Core Contribution from CORE Transfer from Other Project to Core Loan Realized from Other Project to Core Received against last years Receivable-Core 24 25 26 27 28 29
2012 Taka
80,378 18,528,627 18,609,005 167,833,016 2,723,843 645,704 365,314 4,957,680 2,529,540 25,794 70,000 179,150,891 197,759,896
2011 Taka
288,935 16,813,653 17,102,588 129,265,603 3,595,550 737,763 96,295 10,409,639 79,555 5,292,361 120,335 5,222,361 110,859 154,930,321 172,032,909 14,101,989 9,085,832 588,177 857,273 455,593 10,927,893 4,785,493 39,127,139 593,698 10,222,830 8,613 488,475 83,297 3,962,463 7,160,100 172,784 596,641 5,300 1,456,695 5,292,361 34,762,551 116,275 5,222,361 3,350,072 153,423,905 80,378 18,528,627 18,609,005 172,032,909
PAYMENTS Personnel Cost (General & Admin) Training/Seminar/Work shop/ Conferences & Meeting Fringe Benefits Technical Support Cost Development IEC Materials for Advocacy & Human Rights Program Operational Costs General Office Expenses/ Operational Costs Personnel Cost (Program) Behavior Change Communication STD Clinic Services Community Support Consultants & Professional Fees Bank Charges Travel & Transportation Other Direct/Program Cost VCT Service AIDS Day Observation Transfer to the CORE Fund Capital Expenditure Paid to Partners Advances Loan to Other Projects from CORE Fund Paid to Projects from CORE Fund Security Deposit Project Close Amount Loan Repayment to CORE Fund Payment against Last Year's Accounts Payable CLOSING BALANCES: Cash in Hand Cash at Bank
30 31 32 33 34 35
36
37 38
39 40
12,424,299 16,116,975 501,663 648,077 717,600 5,379,173 17,158,425 10,552,574 523,003 39,866,703 452,166 790,000 80,919 873,788 9,835,902 2,649,660 4,472,305 2,287,432 51,840,767 214,000 269,162 2,472,540 570,342 180,697,475 69,136 16,993,285 17,062,421 197,759,896
Chairperson
Executive Director
Signed in terms of our separate report of even date annexed. Dated, Dhaka, 22 May 2013 S. F. Ahmed & Co. Chartered Accountants
Financial Statement
83
Legal Status of the Organization

Bandhu Social Welfare Society is a National Level non-governmental and non-profit organization first registered under the Social Welfare Directorate vide registration number DHA 03879 dated 30th July 1997. It was also registered with the NGO Affairs Bureau; under Foreign Donation Regulation Act vide no 1225 dated 29th December 1997, renewed 14th January 2004 and 9th June 2008 respectively.
WHERE WE WORK
84
Legal Status of the Organization | Where we work

Annual Report 2012 of Bondhu Social Welfare Society Bangladesh.

Enviado por

Dados do documento

Título original

Direitos autorais

Formatos disponíveis

Compartilhar este documento

Compartilhar ou incorporar documento

Opções de compartilhamento

Você considera este documento útil?

Este conteúdo é inapropriado?

Direitos autorais:

Formatos disponíveis

Annual Report 2012 of Bondhu Social Welfare Society Bangladesh.

Enviado por

Direitos autorais:

Formatos disponíveis

ANNUAL REPORT 2012: Community Prosody :: Service and Beyond

Published on July, 2013

ANNUAL REPORT 2012: Community Prosody :: Service and Beyond

Our Mission and Vission | Key Personnel

ANNUAL REPORT 2012: Community Prosody :: Service and Beyond

BSWS Technical Advisory Committee

BSWS Technical Advisory Committee

ANNUAL REPORT 2012: Community Prosody :: Service and Beyond

ANNUAL REPORT 2012: Community Prosody :: Service and Beyond

Message from the Chairperson & Executive Director

Anisul Islam Hero

Message from the Chairperson & Executive Director

ANNUAL REPORT 2012: Community Prosody :: Service and Beyond

ANNUAL REPORT 2012: Community Prosody :: Service and Beyond

AN EPILOGUE ON STRUGGLES OF SEXUAL MINORITIES TOWARDS LIVELIHOOD AND HUMAN RIGHTS

BSWS a Resolute Journey

ANNUAL REPORT 2012: Community Prosody :: Service and Beyond

BSWS a Resolute Journey

ANNUAL REPORT 2012: Community Prosody :: Service and Beyond

REVIEW THE STRATEGY PLAN

The recommendations include:

BSWS a Resolute Journey

ANNUAL REPORT 2012: Community Prosody :: Service and Beyond

MEDIA FELLOWSHIP ON SEXUAL MINORITY POPULATION IN BANGLADESH

BSWS a Resolute Journey

ANNUAL REPORT 2012: Community Prosody :: Service and Beyond

AWARD FOR "AMRA KI ETOI BHINNO"

HIJRA CONFERENCE IN CHITTAGONG

BSWS a Resolute Journey

ANNUAL REPORT 2012: Community Prosody :: Service and Beyond

BSWS a Resolute Journey

ANNUAL REPORT 2012: Community Prosody :: Service and Beyond

UNIVERSAL PERIODIC REVIEW (UPR)

Sexual Minority Issue (part) in HRF-B Report

BSWS a Resolute Journey

ANNUAL REPORT 2012: Community Prosody :: Service and Beyond

LGBT Issue (part) in NHRC Report

COMPREHENSIVE RESPONSES HIV & AIDS:

BSWS a Resolute Journey

ANNUAL REPORT 2012: Community Prosody :: Service and Beyond

BSWS a Resolute Journey

ANNUAL REPORT 2012: Community Prosody :: Service and Beyond

DIGNIFIED LIVELIHOOD FOR THE HIJRA COMMUNITY

BSWS a Resolute Journey

ANNUAL REPORT 2012: Community Prosody :: Service and Beyond

The following indicators increased over last year:

Service: Key to Success

Total contact with MSM by 6.62%

ANNUAL REPORT 2012: Community Prosody :: Service and Beyond

DROP IN CENTER (DICS)/ MALE HEALTH CENTRES

CLINICAL & VCT SERVICES

Service: Key to Success

ANNUAL REPORT 2012: Community Prosody :: Service and Beyond

AWARENESS RAISING ACTIVITIES THROUGH OUTREACH

CONDOM AND LUBRICANT DISTRIBUTION

Service: Key to Success

WEB BASED & HELP LINE COUNSELING

ANNUAL REPORT 2012: Community Prosody :: Service and Beyond

Service: Key to Success

ANNUAL REPORT 2012: Community Prosody :: Service and Beyond

Outputs of the meeting

Advocacy: Pillar to Achievement

ANNUAL REPORT 2012: Community Prosody :: Service and Beyond