Nayyab Ali and Simran Shaikh
23 अक्तू॰ 2025
Session summary
The Tahaffuz Transgender Protection Unit is the first of its kind in the world, where transgender individuals are actively recruited into law enforcement. By doing so, Pakistan is setting a global precedent in creating a model of inclusive policing that not only provides protection but restores dignity to transgender people who were once marginalised and excluded from the justice system. As the Incharge of Islamabad Transgender Protection Unit, Government of Pakistan and Chief Technical Advisor for the establishment of 34 nationwide units, I will share firsthand experiences and insights into:
The historical role of police as perpetrators and the critical need for reform in law enforcement practises to protect transgender people.
• How Pakistan’s transgender Protection Unit is the first-ever dedicated centre worldwide, serving as a model for inclusive policing and transgender recruitment in law enforcement.
• The challenges faced in reversing the long-standing mistrust between transgender individuals and law enforcement.
• The journey from transgender individuals being seen as victims to becoming officers of the law, advocating for their own community.
• The collaborative model between government, law enforcement, and community-based organisations to combat violence and drive social protection for transgender people
Biography
Nayyab Ali is the Executive Director of Transgender Rights Consultants Pakistan and a prominent advocate for transgender rights. With a rich background in policy advocacy, she has been instrumental in shaping laws for transgender inclusion, including contributing to the drafting of the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2018. Nayyab is the first transgender woman in a Muslim country to contest an election for the National Assembly. She has received numerous accolades for her work, including the Franco-German Prize for Human Rights and Rule of Law. Nayyab has been recognized as an International LGBT Activist and regularly advises global organisations like UNDP on gender inclusion and health equity. She is also the In-Charge of the Gender Protection Unit of Islamabad Police, overseeing the establishment of similar units nationwide. Passionate about empowering marginalised communities, Nayyab’s work focuses on creating safer, more inclusive spaces for transgender individuals, while advocating their economic empowerment and legal protection.
