#Is it safe to travel to Pakistan

[munaeem]

Unveiling the Dark Side of Migration: Smugglers and Social Media

Hey, Let’s Talk About the Dark Side of Chasing a Better Life Hey there! So, picture this: you’re scrolling through TikTok, maybe chuckling at a dance trend, when suddenly an ad pops up. It’s not for some overhyped skincare product—it’s a guy promising a “golden ticket” to Europe. Sounds sketchy, right? Well, it is. I recently stumbled across this wild documentary about illegal migration from…

[innooxent]

Is Pakistan Safe to Travel? - Expert Pakistani

Is Pakistan Safe to Travel? - Expert Pakistani

Is Pakistan Safe to Travel? Safety is a top concern for any traveler. Pakistan, with its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and diverse history, is an emerging tourist destination. However, there are often questions about the safety of traveling to Pakistan. In this article, we will explore the discussed situation in Pakistan and provide valuable insights for travelers interested in…

[book-challenger]

Travel Destination: Pakistan

Written in the Stars by Aisha Saeed

Naila's conservative immigrant parents have always said the same thing: She may choose what to study, how to wear her hair, and what to be when she grows up-but they will choose her husband but when Naila falls in love with a boy Saif, her parents are livid and plan a vacation back to their homeland so Naila can reconnect with her roots.

However plans change and this vacation quickly turns to a nightmare when her parents find her a husband, Naila is running out of time, has Naila's fate been written in the stars? Or can she still make her own destiny?

Nura and the Immortal Palace by M.T. Khan

Nura must spend her time Mica mining for extra cash to support her family, however there’s rumours of treasure that could not only change her life but her family’s.

Her plan backfires when the mines collapse and four kids, including her best friend, Faisal, are claimed dead. Nura refuses to believe it and shovels her way through the dirt hoping to find him. Instead, she finds herself at the entrance to a strange world of purple skies and pink seas—a portal to the opulent realm of jinn, inhabited by the trickster creatures from her mother’s cautionary tales.

Under the Tamarind Tree by Nigar Alam

1964. Karachi, Pakistan. Rozeena is running out of time. She'll lose her home—her parents' safe haven since fleeing India and the terrors of Partition—if her medical career doesn't take off soon. But success may come with an unexpected price. Meanwhile the interwoven lives of her childhood best friends—Haaris, Aalya, and Zohair—seem to be unraveling with each passing day. The once small and inconsequential differences between their families' social standing now threaten to divide them. Then one fateful night someone ends up dead and the life they once took for granted shatters.

The Women’s Courtyard by Khadija Mastur

Set in the 1940s with Partition looming, Aliya dreams of educating herself and venturing beyond the courtyard walls, however she surrounded by the petty squabbles of her household.

Aliya must endure many trials before she achieves her goals, though at what personal cost?

An Abundance of Wild Roses by Feryal Ali-Gauhar

In a land woven with myth, chained with tradition and afflicted by war and the march of progress, the spirits of the mountains keep a baleful eye on the struggles of the villagers who scrape a living from the bodies of their wildlife. As the elements turn on the village, can humanity find a way to co-exist with nature that doesn't destroy either of them?

[salvadorbonaparte]

Would you mind sharing your views on backpacking? 👀

Take all of this with a grain of salt because I'm mostly just bothered by backpacking content on Instagram.

I think the concept is fine. I'd actually like to do some backpacking some time.

But backpacking content, as well as most overland* content, always has a really weird vibe. It almost feels like cosplaying poverty if you know what I mean??

It's almost always young people from the so called "West" and almost always they're somewhere in South or Southeast Asia. The most popular backpacking destinations I'm seeing at the moment are Bali (exclusively that part of Indonesia for some reason), Thailand, Vietnam and Sri Lanka. The algorithm has recently also started showing me content from Pakistan, India and Afghanistan.

Since flights to these destinations are usually quite expensive, and many of these people stay abroad long enough that they might need a visa and that accommodation and food would also add up, it can be safely assumed these people have a certain amount of financial stability. Some of them are full time influencers too.

And while travelling with a backpack instead of a suitcase makes sense, and while you want to have an "authentic" experience, the vibe on those videos is often sooooo weird.

They're always like "I just spent 45h standing in a cramped bus without AC because it was only $1. I'm sleeping on the floor of this abandoned building that costs me $4 a night. I only carry 2 t-shirts with me, can't find a laundromat and I'm travelling for 3 months. Yesterday I got scammed and got food poisoning."

And I'm like why are you doing this? Is it really more "authentic" just because it's a foreign country? You can find the same uncomfortable situations and people who live like that all the time in your home country, but when you're abroad it's cool and authentic and #humbling #eatpraylove. Meanwhile there's also people in that same country you're backpacking through who, like, have a comparable standard of living you're used to. Your holiday doesn't have to be luxury resorts but it also doesn't have to be absolutely god awful.

And of course there's also the factor of adrenaline and stepping out of your comfort zone but with these videos it seems like they're almost glamorising having an awful time in an "exotic" country because that's what it's supposed to be like? I guess?

Idk I feel like I should get the opinion of someone living in one of those backpacking hotspots to make sure I'm not just getting annoyed at nothing but I think the vibe is off.

*overland content as in "travelling from XY to YZ without flying - Day 420" type videos. They're often interesting and I follow some of those people and I actually have some ideas for cool overland or long distance train trips but some of the accounts also have a weird vibe. Most of the ones I saw were men and they're like hitchhiking through some desert somewhere and I'm like oh this would feel so unsafe to me as someone perceived female. And obviously they also make lots of content where you know they have lots money because they've been travelling for several months but it has that same fake low budget backpacker vibe.

I hope this makes sense. I'm not sure it does.

[beardedmrbean]

Armed militants in Pakistan's Balochistan region have attacked a train carrying hundreds of passengers and taken a number of hostages, military sources have told the BBC.

The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) fired at the Jaffar Express Train as it travelled from Quetta to Peshawar.

A statement from the separatist group said it had bombed the track before storming the train in remote Sibi district. It claimed the train was under its control.

Pakistani police told local reporters at least three people, including the train driver, had been injured. Security forces have been sent to the scene, as well as helicopters to try to rescue hostages, police told the BBC.

There were reports of "intense firing" at the train, a Balochistan government spokesman told local newspaper Dawn.

A senior police official said it "remains stuck just before a tunnel surrounded by mountains", AFP news agency reports.

A senior army official confirmed to the BBC that there were more than 100 army personnel travelling from Quetta on the train.

The Baloch Liberation Army has warned of "severe consequences" if an attempt is made to rescue those it is holding.

It has waged a decades-long insurgency to gain independence and has launched numerous deadly attacks, often targeting police stations, railway lines and highways.

The Pakistani authorities - as well as several Western countries, including the UK and US - have designated the BLA as a terrorist organisation.

Quetta's railway controller Muhammad Kashif told the BBC that 400-450 passengers had been booked on the train.

Officials have not confirmed how many they think have been taken hostage.

A local railway official in Quetta told the BBC that a group of 80 passengers - 11 children, 26 women and 43 men - had disembarked the train and reached the nearest railway station, Panir.

The group had boarded a cargo train to Mach railway station, from where a bus was set to take them back to Quetta.

The official said the group was made up of locals from the province of Balochistan.

One man told the BBC his wife and children were in the group, but that his brother-in-law was still being held on the train.

He described an agonising wait to discover if his family was safe, and said he had tried to drive to the area but that all roads he had tried to use were closed.

Railway officials in Quetta, quoting paramilitary sources, told the BBC earlierthat women and children had disembarked from the train and were walking towards the city of Sibi. They did not have an exact number.

Meanwhile, families of passengers were trying to get information from the counter at Quetta railway station.

The son of one passenger, Muhammad Ashraf, who left Quetta for Lahore on Tuesday morning, told BBC Urdu he had not been able to contact his father.

Another relative said he was "frantic with worry" about his cousin and her small child, who were travelling from Quetta to Multan to pick up a family member.

"No one is telling me what's happening or if they're safe," Imran Khan told Reuters news agency.

Officials say they are yet to communicate with anyone on the train.

The area has no internet and mobile network coverage, officials told the BBC.

Balochistan is Pakistan's largest province and the richest in terms of natural resources, but it is the least developed.

[lumine-no-hikari]

Dear Sephiroth: (a letter to a fictional character, because why not) #484

J and I managed to get a full 8 hours of sleep last night, which is wonderful! That being said, we were both pretty groggy upon waking. The last several days have taken a bit of a toll on us, I'm sure.

...When I think about the idea that you used to have to live like this, traveling from place to place to be deployed or used somewhere... I feel a heartbroken at the stress and fatigue you must have been feeling. We're doing this to connect posthumously with Daniel. You were forced into it for far less wholesome reasons. I can't even imagine what it must have felt like for you.

So we decided to chill out at the hotel for another day, which was good because J had to do his remote job anyhow. We got breakfast. We ate it without rushing, and it was good.

When we got back to our room, I turned on my laptop. My friend from Australia reached out to me for the first time in a while, and that was good. He seems to be doing a little better now. He has a job at a motel, along with a room there, and a car that works. He's maybe got some coworker drama, but hopefully that can be resolved with the application of boundary skills. I'll hope for good things upon him.

After a while, J got hungry. So we walked to a place nearby that sells various kinds of Vietnamese food! Check it out!

When we got back to the hotel, I was surprised to find a message from another friend; this one is from Pakistan. A lot more time had passed since last this one reached out to me, and the conversation began rather bizarrely, but it ended pleasantly enough.

I wonder why these two picked today to reach out to me. I'm not upset about it, just... it's interesting, I guess.

I don't have much else to tell. I'm thinking about doing some Valheim soon, though. I was thinking about doing it beforehand, but... it's important to be there for people when they need you, I think.

If I do get around to Vahleim, you'll find me here:

Today's letter is short. I'm sorry about that. Not much in the way of big thoughts today. But maybe that's all right.

I love you so much. And I hope you're resting when you need to, too. Making sure you rest before your brain gets weird is one of the best ways to remain safe, especially when you're doing complicated things like flying airplanes. I assume that whatever you're doing over at the Edge of Creation is more complicated than flying an airplane, so... please rest regularly so that you can stay safe and make good, kind, brave choices.

I'll write again tomorrow, though I don't know when.

Your friend, Lumine

[molkolsdal]

I photographed Zenith on the busy streets of her city, Lahore, in Pakistan, a few months ago. Looking around I could see that people were quite surprised to see a woman confidently riding a powerful motorcycle. Zenith is actually the first Pakistani female motorcyclist to ride across her country. Zenith’s father had a similar dream. He wanted to travel the world on a motorcycle. Tragically, he passed away when Zenith was just ten months old, leaving her with a void that only riding could fill. Inspired by her father’s dream, Zenith gradually developed a deep love for motorcycles. Initially she learned to ride so she could navigate the chaotic traffic while commuting to her high school. Later she had the chance to meet a community of male motorcyclists and, after hearing their stories, she started to dream about riding across all Pakistan. She clearly remembers how one of the motorcyclists told her that she will never be able to do that, as a woman. However, Zenith had a dream to fulfil, and in the end, nothing could stop her. For Zenith, riding is much more than a means of transport. It is a way of connecting with her father, of discovering herself and discovering her homeland. She now has a new dream: to start a touring company and help more women follow their passion for motorcycle. Zenith, may your rides be smooth, safe and filled with inspiration.

Mihaela Noroc

[watering-my-garden]

I see so many people talking about how they want pen pals and asking people to reach out to them. If you use these websites, I promise finding a quality penpal will be so much easier!

Global Penfriends

Things I like about this site:

Can specify specific countries or regions you want your penpal to be from when searching

Can specify what kind of penpal you want (e-pal, snail mail, language learning, postcard, travel partner, candy swap and more!)

Can restrict certain genders from reaching out to your profile, as well as certain age ranges

Things I don't like about this site:

While there is a free version, you have to upgrade to a premium membership in order to reach out to more than one profile every 24 hours, have more than 5 conversation in your mailbox, etc

Penpals I found with this site: Ghofrane from Morocco, Aubrey from Alaska

Penpal World

Things I like about this site:

Can message three people every 24 hours

Can comment on people's profiles if you don't have any more messages and want them to contact you

Can block certain countries

Things I don't like about this site

Can only have three messages in your inbox at once

Information on profiles is not as specific as Global Penfriends

The word limit on profiles makes it difficult to be as precise as I personally think is necessary when looking for a quality penpal

Penpals I found on this site: Zarnab from Pakistan (an e-pal who I've known for years now)

My only gripe with both of these sites is that there's no way to filter out people who may be homophobic or bigoted in some other way. That being said, I'm queer and I've not yet had any issues. I've also seen profiles on both sites were people ask that homophobic, transphobic (etc) people not contact them. So it is possible to manage!

Good luck finding penpals!!! 💜💜💜💜💜

[warningsine]

https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/taxis-security-escort-help-indian-students-escape-violence-hit-bangladesh-2024-07-19/

GUWAHATI, India, July 19 (Reuters) - A fleet of taxis, a security escort, and a harrowing six-hour journey brought Asif Hussain and about 80 other Indian students back home on Friday from Bangladesh, where violence has erupted between protesters and security forces.

At least 20 people have been killed in the clashes this week - most of them in the capital Dhaka - with police firing tear gas and rubber bullets to scatter protesters who also torched vehicles and establishments. The protesters oppose a system of quotas for government jobs.

Some mobile internet services were cut off on Thursday and telecom links remained widely disrupted on Friday.

For Hussain, who studies at a private medical college in Bangladesh's Manikganj district, about 50 km (30 miles)from Dhaka, being cut off from his family in India was especially "stressful".

"Our college was not affected by the violence but we heard there was trouble in the town (about 15 minutes away)," he told Reuters.

As news came in of students being killed in Dhaka, Hussain and about 80 others from his college hired private taxis to travel to the border that Bangladesh shares with India's eastern state of West Bengal, about 170 km away.

The Indian High Commission (embassy) in Bangladesh also provided the students with a security escort after they requested for it, Hussain said.

Leaving their college at 2.30 a.m., the group reached the border six hours later but crossed it only in the afternoon after clearing immigration.

For Hussain, the journey will continue for another day as he travels to his hometown, Dhubri, in Assam state.

"It has been very scary...I have (still) not been able to speak to many of my friends in Dhaka," he said.

Around 8,500 Indians are studying in Bangladesh - many of them pursuing medicine - India's foreign ministry says, and about 15,000 Indians live in the country.

Bangladesh's history is closely intertwined with India, which intervened on the side of Bengali nationalists in their 1971 war of independence against Pakistan.

India's Meghalaya state, which too shares a border with Bangladesh, is also helping to evacuate people, with officials saying more than 350 students from India, Nepal and Bhutan have entered through this route so far.

In an advisory, India urged its citizens in Bangladesh to minimise movement outside their residences. The foreign ministry on Friday said that all Indians in Bangladesh were safe.

Nepal similarly said it was "closely monitoring" the situation in Bangladesh, where around 3,000 of its citizens study and another 50 work with the United Nations and other international organisations.

[revnah1406]

Questions for the BAMFs! ♥️☀️

7, 10, 17, and 24 for my sweet girl Abby.

1, 5, 6, and 17 for the lovely Hannah!

HELLO BB! 🌞❤️

That's a lot of questions! Let's start!

ABBY MASON:

7. What's one way your OC has changed since you first came up with them?

MMMHH I would say her appearance a little bit and Oh! Of course her personality! In the beginning she was a shy scared kid, that would develop a braver personality with time. But I thought that maybe it was too... Meh. And Knowing how much potential Abby could have, I gave her that brave and reckless personality from the very beginning. She was raised by Woods after all. She learnt from him hahaha!

10. What's an AU that would be interesting to explore with your OC?

Time traveling! She was born in 2012 and currently her story is developing in 2030, so she doesn't interact much with the most iconic character of black ops (like her grandfather Mason, a younger Woods, Adler, Hudson...). But this is funny because I'm currently doing an AU! RP with @efingart and @alypink with their black Ops ocs and it's super interesting! We are thinking of turning it into a fic once we finish it! I love this RP with all my heart 💖

17. What is the worst thing you have put your OC through story-wise?

Currently? What happened in chapter 4. The torture and the events in the river Potomac. But sadly worse things are coming for her, I won't tell when or what. But yeah... Sorry baby...

24. What is an alternative life path your OC might have gone down? How different would their life be if they'd made those decisions?

Mmmmh the first one would be, not visiting Woods that afternoon when she was 13. She wouldn't have had to witness Menéndez killing Woods and getting shot. But the biggest one would be staying with David when the White House was under attack in chapter 3. If she would insist and stay with her father that night, she wouldn't get kidnapped by the Hyenas, and probably she would have travelled to Alaska with her father and started a new life.

HANNAH "SPARROW" CLAYTON:

1. What memory would your OC rather just forget?

The accident in the mountain K2 in Pakistan in 2020. Those three days she spent there, after being hit by an avalanche in a try to save her brother, freezing to death, bleeding out, with broken bones, literally going fucking crazy due to the lack of oxygen in that altitude. That memory haunts her after all those years.

5. How far is your OC willing to go to get what they want?

It depends. If it's a whim like trying to convince Amara to go dinner somewhere specific, she can be very persistent, but she knows when to stop insisting if it would piss her girlfriend off.

If it's a moral thing, like "I do this because I think it's the right thing". She wouldn't disobey even god itself. She really has strong morals and it's hard to change her mind. You have to convince her and give her a really good reason to not do what she's thinking.

If it's protecting someone, especially someone that she cares about, she's willing to die for them if it's needed. She doesn't care if it breaks that person's heart, she must keep them safe, no matter the cost. Literally.

6. How easily could your OC be convinced to do something that goes against their moral compass?

Hard. Really hard. Impossible I'd say. But if there's a person who has the tiniest possibility of doing that, it should be someone that she really cares about. REALLY close friends, family and lover, and they should have a REALLY good fucking reason for doing that. But after that don't expect Sparrow to treat you like before.

17. What is the worst thing you have put your OC through story-wise?

The K2 accident. I think that's the worst thing that happened to Sparrow, or at least the one that affected her the most. I should write a fic with all the details about that Accident. It could be interesting. 🤔

Aaaannd I think that's all! Thank you so much for the asks love!

[000marie198]

Back in 1947, mass migrations took place when India was split.

The British had decided to divide it into two countries in such an awful way that thousands of families, whole towns and cities, had to relocate to the other newly divided country from both sides. Muslims moving to Pakistan and Hindus and many more moving to India.

Here's the thing, thousands of these people were massacred, whole trains, coming from both sides, by robbers. There isn't confirmation of who the killers were but due to a mass migration and it's stresses and confusion, even with all the travel routes open, such horrific events happened. People hoping to finally be free from the oppressive rule and start a better life were killed in the way.

That was just to provide an example of how difficult and risky mass migrations can be, even with all the resources and transportation

And now...

Today, the people being ordered to evacuate by Israel, on a fucking time limit, with no safe and open routes, no fuel, no proper means... Does that even look possible? Humane?

A small organization fights back after decades of oppression and cruelty and they take revenge for it, by dehumanizing a whole nation, from people not even part of it, who have nothing to do with it except perhaps suffering for so long. They take revenge from the innocent by cutting off all life supporting resources and going 'Oh hey, you animals leave this plz by tomorrow we're gonna blow up your home'...

I just... How much more inhumane, apathic, cruel can you get?

And what's even more heartbreaking is that there are still those who refuse to see what's happening and are justifying this, defending this or making jokes about this.

[rentacarserviceinrawalpindi]

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[salvadorbonaparte]

lmao anon sounds like they're trying to make out pakistan as this untouchable inaccessible fantasy land from whose bourn no traveller return, meanwhile a friend of mine literally just visited pakistan a few months ago just because she was invited to a wedding (and to no one's surprise, she made it perfectly fine, why wouldn't she)

The plot thickens. Jokes aside obviously I know that there are some tensions in the country and not all regions would be safe for travel rn but also it is just another country and there is technically nothing but money stopping me from travel. There are risks everywhere.

Very different level of political stability but I just remembered how one of my friends in high school had roots in Afghanistan and I mentioned that if the situation was different I'd be interested in visiting there because it's a beautiful country and my friend just turned to me and was like yeah they'd just kill you the second you step out of the airport lmao.

[lifeanddreamsandhopes]

trans gender research List of Countries Where Being Queer or Trans is Illegal

The following countries have laws that criminalize being queer or trans:

Afghanistan

Brunei

Iran

Mauritania

Nigeria

Pakistan

Qatar

Saudi Arabia

Somalia

Sudan

United Arab Emirates

Yemen

It is important to note that this list may not be exhaustive, as laws and attitudes towards queer and trans individuals can vary widely from region to region within a country. It is also worth mentioning that even in countries where being queer or trans is not explicitly illegal, there may still be significant societal stigma and discrimination against these communities.

As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, there were 69 countries where consensual same-sex sexual activity was criminalized.

It is important to note that the laws and punishments for being queer or trans vary widely across countries where it is illegal. In some countries, such as Afghanistan, Iran, Mauritania, Nigeria, Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, and Yemen, the punishment can be death. In other countries, such as the United Arab Emirates, the punishment may be imprisonment or fines. It is important to research the specific laws and attitudes towards queer and trans individuals in a country before traveling or living there.

Laws Affecting Queer People in Afghanistan

Afghanistan has a long history of discriminating against marginalized communities, including queer people. The following are some of the current laws affecting queer people in Afghanistan:

Criminalization of Homosexuality: Homosexuality is illegal in Afghanistan, and individuals found guilty of engaging in homosexual acts can face imprisonment or the death penalty.

No Legal Recognition of Same-Sex Relationships: Same-sex relationships are not recognized under Afghan law, and there are no legal protections for queer people in relationships.

Punishment for Gender Non-Conforming Individuals: Gender non-conforming individuals, including transgender people, can face punishment and discrimination in Afghanistan.

Lack of Access to Healthcare: Queer people in Afghanistan often face barriers to accessing healthcare, including discrimination from healthcare providers and a lack of resources.

These laws create a hostile environment for queer people in Afghanistan and contribute to ongoing discrimination and violence. It is essential that steps are taken to protect and support queer individuals in Afghanistan and to work towards more inclusive laws and policies.

Here is a list of countries where gay marriage and being trans are officially accepted:

Argentina

Belgium

Brazil

Canada

Colombia

Denmark

Ecuador

Finland

France

Germany

Iceland

Ireland

Luxembourg

Malta

Mexico

Netherlands

New Zealand

Norway

Portugal

South Africa

Spain

Sweden

United Kingdom

Uruguay

This list is not exhaustive, and laws and attitudes towards queer and trans individuals can vary widely within a country. Additionally, while these countries have legal recognition of LGBTQ+ rights, there may still be societal stigma and discrimination against these communities.

Queer kids in schools can face various struggles, including bullying, discrimination, and harassment. They may feel isolated and unsupported, which can negatively impact their mental health and academic performance. Some schools may not have policies in place to protect LGBTQ+ students from discrimination and harassment, which can make it difficult for them to feel safe and included. It is important for schools to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all students, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

In american, it has found that 0.7% of people are transgender.

studies show that their transgenderism at age 8.5, and coming out at 10+ years later.

heteronomativity. 56% of youths that identify as transgender have considered suicides with 31% have been attempted suicides.

cis gendered 20% and 11%.

transgendered people who suffer from mental health issues,

homelessness, physical vilence, substance abuse, high rish sexual behaviour,

discrimination, ridicule, bullying, and all of that leading to a poor or self worth and mental health issues. it’s not that they’re born that way, it’s the result of society’s lack of empathy and care of them as individuals and study shows this starts at home. study looked at 433 transgender adolescents in ontario and they found that suicide attempt is 4% if parents are supportives, 60% if they are not supportive.

prepubertive: 5-12 years old

gender affirmation: lifestyle based, social affirmation by gender affirmation hairstyle and clothing, names and pronouns, non-binary restrooms.

puberty blockers:

Japan:

In Japan, transgender people face significant social and legal challenges. While there is no specific law against being transgender, there are no legal protections for transgender individuals either. Transgender individuals are often denied access to healthcare, employment, and other basic rights. The government requires transgender individuals to undergo sterilization surgery in order to legally change their gender, which has been criticized as a violation of human rights. However, there have been some recent changes in Japan's laws to address these issues, including a court ruling that declared the sterilization requirement unconstitutional in 2021.

Being queer in Japan can vary greatly depending on various factors such as location, age, social circles, and personal experiences. Japan has made some progress in terms of LGBTQ+ rights and acceptance in recent years, but there are still challenges and areas that need improvement. Here are a few points to consider:

Legal Environment: While same-sex sexual activity is legal in Japan, there is no nationwide legal recognition of same-sex marriage or civil unions. Some cities and wards, such as Tokyo's Shibuya and Setagaya districts, have established local partnership systems that provide limited recognition to same-sex couples. Transgender individuals can legally change their gender, but the process can be complex.

Social Attitudes: Public attitudes towards LGBTQ+ individuals have become more tolerant in recent years, especially among younger generations. However, traditional values and societal expectations can still influence acceptance levels, particularly in more conservative areas and older generations. While urban centers like Tokyo and Osaka tend to be more LGBTQ+-friendly, rural areas may have less visibility and support.

Visibility and Community: Queer individuals in Japan have created vibrant communities and safe spaces, primarily in major cities. Tokyo's Shinjuku Ni-chōme district is known for its LGBTQ+ nightlife, with numerous bars and clubs catering to different identities. LGBTQ+ organizations and events provide opportunities for connection, support, and activism.

Workplace and Education: Some companies and educational institutions have implemented policies to support LGBTQ+ employees and students, but the level of inclusivity can vary. While larger corporations may have LGBTQ+-inclusive policies, smaller businesses might not be as progressive. In educational settings, there is a growing awareness of the importance of LGBTQ+-inclusive education, but it is not yet widespread.

Coming Out and Family: Coming out to family and friends can be challenging, as individual reactions may range from acceptance to disapproval. Traditional family values and societal pressure to conform can make the process difficult for some individuals. However, increased visibility through media representation and advocacy efforts has contributed to greater understanding and acceptance among families.

Media Representation: LGBTQ+ representation in mainstream media has improved in recent years. There are more openly LGBTQ+ celebrities, TV shows, and movies addressing queer themes and characters. However, stereotypes and limited representation can still persist.

It's important to note that individual experiences may differ significantly, and this overview does not capture the full range of experiences within the LGBTQ+ community in Japan.

The treatment of transgender people in Japan can vary based on societal attitudes, legal recognition, and access to healthcare. Here are some key points regarding how Japan treats trans individuals:

Legal Recognition: Japan allows transgender individuals to legally change their gender on official documents such as passports and family registers through a process called "legal gender recognition." However, this process requires individuals to meet specific criteria, including undergoing sterilization or other medical procedures, which has been a subject of criticism by human rights organizations.

Healthcare: Japan has established medical guidelines for gender dysphoria, and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is available for transgender individuals. Gender-affirming surgeries, such as gender confirmation surgeries, are also performed in the country. However, the availability and accessibility of healthcare services can vary, and the cost of treatments might not be covered by insurance.

Discrimination and Stigma: Transgender individuals in Japan may face discrimination, prejudice, and stigma in various aspects of their lives, including education, employment, and public spaces. They may encounter challenges related to misgendering, lack of understanding, and limited acceptance in some social circles.

Social Support: There are organizations and support groups in Japan that provide assistance, resources, and advocacy for transgender individuals. These groups aim to create safe spaces, offer counseling, and promote transgender rights and visibility. However, support systems may be more accessible in urban areas compared to rural regions.

Media Representation: Representation of transgender individuals in mainstream media has increased over the years, contributing to greater awareness and understanding. There have been TV dramas and documentaries that explore transgender experiences and shed light on the challenges faced by trans people in Japan.

It's important to recognize that transgender experiences are diverse, and not all individuals have the same encounters or perceptions. While progress has been made, there are still areas where improvement is needed, such as legal requirements for gender recognition and the overall social acceptance and inclusivity of transgender people in Japanese society.

Certainly! Here are a few examples of modern trans activists and their contributions to advancing trans rights and visibility:

Laverne Cox: Laverne Cox is an American actress and transgender advocate. She gained widespread recognition for her role as Sophia Burset in the Netflix series "Orange Is the New Black." Cox has been vocal about trans rights, intersectionality, and the importance of accurate representation. She has used her platform to raise awareness and challenge stereotypes, becoming an influential figure in the trans community.

Janet Mock: Janet Mock is a writer, TV host, and transgender rights activist. She is known for her memoir "Redefining Realness" and her work as a writer and producer on the TV series "Pose." Mock has been a prominent advocate for trans rights, particularly for transgender women of color. She has spoken out about the importance of transgender visibility and has been involved in initiatives promoting trans representation and inclusivity in media.

Chella Man: Chella Man is an artist, model, and activist. He gained attention through his YouTube channel, where he documented his experiences as a transgender person, Deaf individual, and person of color. Chella Man has used his platform to discuss trans issues, mental health, and disability rights. He has been involved in campaigns promoting inclusivity and self-expression and has become a positive role model for many young transgender individuals.

Marsha P. Johnson: Marsha P. Johnson, although not a modern activist in terms of current times, played a significant role in the early LGBTQ+ rights movement. Johnson was a transgender woman of color and a prominent figure in the 1969 Stonewall uprising, a pivotal event for LGBTQ+ rights. She co-founded the Street Transvestite Action Revolutionaries (STAR) organization, which provided support and resources for homeless queer youth.

Munroe Bergdorf: Munroe Bergdorf is a British model, DJ, and activist. She has been an outspoken advocate for transgender rights, racial justice, and LGBTQ+ inclusivity. Bergdorf has used her visibility in the fashion industry to challenge norms and promote acceptance. She has worked with various organizations, spoken at events, and engaged in public discussions to raise awareness and address social issues affecting marginalized communities.

These are just a few examples of modern trans activists who have made significant contributions to the trans rights movement. There are numerous others who have worked tirelessly to promote equality, visibility, and understanding for transgender individuals globally.

Homophobia and transphobia can have a significant impact on queer kids in Japan, as they face unique challenges and struggles within their social environments. Here are some key points to consider:

Bullying and Discrimination: Queer kids in Japan may experience bullying and discrimination based on their sexual orientation or gender identity. This can occur in schools, communities, or even within their own families. The bullying can manifest as verbal harassment, exclusion, physical aggression, or cyberbullying, leading to emotional distress and negative impacts on their mental health.

Lack of Visibility and Education: Limited visibility and understanding of LGBTQ+ identities in Japanese society can contribute to the challenges faced by queer kids. The lack of comprehensive LGBTQ+-inclusive education in schools can perpetuate ignorance and misunderstanding, leading to further stigmatization and isolation for queer students.

Social Pressures and Expectations: Japanese society places significant emphasis on conformity and traditional gender roles, which can create added pressure on queer kids to hide or suppress their identities. They may feel compelled to conform to societal norms, leading to feelings of self-doubt, shame, and internalized homophobia or transphobia.

Limited Support Systems: While there are organizations and support networks for LGBTQ+ individuals in Japan, access to these resources may be limited, particularly for younger individuals who may lack autonomy or knowledge of available support. The availability of LGBTQ+-friendly healthcare professionals, counselors, or educators may also be limited in some regions.

Mental Health Concerns: The combination of bullying, discrimination, and the internal struggles associated with being queer in an unsupportive environment can have a significant impact on the mental health of queer kids in Japan. They may experience higher rates of depression, anxiety, self-harm, and suicidal ideation.

It's important to note that progress is being made in Japan regarding LGBTQ+ rights and acceptance, but there is still work to be done to address homophobia and transphobia. Increasing visibility, promoting inclusive education, fostering supportive communities, and advocating for legal protections can help create a safer and more accepting environment for queer kids in Japan.

[nonasuch]

Miss Nigeria is wearing a moderately blinged-out version of actual cultural dress, which is a completely respectable choice but insofar as anything with a six-foot feather train can be called 'safe,' is kind of a safe choice.

It's actually been a while since anyone has turned up to Miss Universe in a national costume they could have plausibly borrowed from their grandmother, so Miss North Macedonia's got me feeling a little nostalgic.

Miss Norway, that is a prom dress. Go home and change into something with at least an eight-foot radius.

Miss Pakistan looks lovely, but I do feel like she and Miss Lebanon and a few others are in a completely different competition from, like, Miss Japan and Miss Italy and everyone else in Team Camp.

okay we're all just doing gold armor this year huh? I want to see Miss Paraguay get together with the rest of them and fight it out.

Huh. Okay. I was not aware that Miss Persia was a thing? Like obviously Miss Universe is not operating in Iran, so I guess this is like a Persian diaspora thing? Good for them I guess but also I haaaaate her skirt. If you don't have enough layers to hide the hoopskirt ridges you are Doing It Wrong!

Miss Peru, in... more gold! This thing was blinding in motion.

Miss Philippines has an entire model boat on her head and I am so so sad that she and Miss Eritrea can't time-travel to the Catholic Met Gala.

You might assume that Miss Poland is doing a Snow Queen thing. Wrong! Sexy Salt Mine.

If I had a nickel for every 2024 Miss Universe National Costume contestant who dressed as a sexy pope, I'd have two nickels. Which isn't a lot but it's weird that it happened twice.

Miss Puerto Rico is wearing a relatively restrained (for Miss Universe) version of actual cultural dress, BUT the whole skirt lights up to display their flag. This is a fun new innovation in Miss Universe national costume technology, and I approve.

Miss Romania's dress would almost fall into "borrowed from grandma" except it's apparently made of leather, which means it still looks basic and it's horrifically sweaty. The peacock feathers are such an afterthough that they're not even attached securely. Yikes.

Miss Russia's doing a pretty good Snow Queen, but this is probably getting bonus points because I'm so relieved it's not imperialism-themed this year.

Miss Saint Lucia is wearing a Tribute To The Olympics, possibly because she wanted an excuse to wear comfy pants.

According to the flavor text Miss Samoa is literally wearing Moana cosplay, so I guess she's not scared of the Disney lawyers. Also she looks like she could bench-press any of the other contestants, which: love that for her.

Miss Senegal chose to be comfy, and while 99% of the time I support that, this is the other 1% of the time and you should have gone bigger.

Miss Serbia's shoulder eagles have eyes that light up. I like to think that one of them can only tell the truth, and the other can only tell lies. This whole look is so silly and that's why I like it.

Maybe it just photographs badly, but Miss Singapore's costume looks poorly fitted and cheap, which is surprising because in past years they've done a lot better than this.

Oh no, the airline lost the bottom half of Miss Slovakia's costume! She's going to have to make do with the skirt from a spare evening gown. Her grandma is going to be so mad at her for losing half of a family heirloom.

Yes, Miss Somalia is wearing gold armor. But she is also wearing leopard print and she brought a sword, and she looks badass, so I don't care.

Miss Universe National Costume 2024, Part 2!

Splitting this off into a new post so I'm not clogging up everyone's dash quite as much.

Miss Malta is some sort of environmental protection Sailor Scout. I think the giant bow would look better on the back of the skirt but otherwise this is solid.

It has just come to my attention that I skipped over Miss Albania and several other A/B countries, back at the beginning. I sincerely apologize! She went to all this trouble putting together a Fifth Element cruise ship passenger costume, and I nearly missed it.

Miss Armenia, in what even I have to admit would be a legit Princess Leia fit.

Miss Bahrain, adding some green to her Gold And Vaguely Historical look, along with what is either a comically large prop chalice or an upside-down lamp.

Miss Bangladesh appears to believe that adding two plush tigers from the toy store around the corner from the pageant venue will conceal the fact that she is just wearing a tiger-print evening dress. Miss Bangladesh is incorrect.

Miss Belgium. Girl. No.

Miss Belize let the seventh-grade art class do her whole costume, which was a bold choice.

Okay, I think that's everyone I missed! Back to alphabetical order. And I should have to rely less on shitty screenshots, now. Some countries were benefiting from the low resolution, tbh.

Kind of feel like Miss Maldives had a luggage mishap and she's just wearing the outfit she packed for a slightly dressy dinner.

Miss Martinique's costume would honestly have looked better in the shitty screencap version. The construction is... bad. It's bad.

Feel like we're in a little bit of slump here. Miss Mauritius did not stick enough butterfly appliqués to her gown to conceal that it is, in fact, just a regular evening gown.

Slump officially over! We are so back. Everyone say thank you, Miss Mexico.

I would like this better if it had just committed to the giant skirt and not felt the need to make it a Sexy Miniskirt look. Sorry, Miss Moldova.

Miss Mongolia wanted to stand out from all the other gold armor on stage, so she decided to a) wear cooler armor and b) bring a bow and arrow instead of a sword. Great work, Miss Mongolia.

Starting to feel like I'm picking on the smaller countries that probably don't have a huge pageant culture or the budget for really elaborate costumes, but on the other hand Miss Montenegro's costume is super low-effort AND the fabrics look cheap, so what am I supposed to do?

Okay, this looks like a pretty standard Miss Universe Sexy Bird, yes? Well, THIS is how Miss Myanmar entered the stage:

She had to fight her way out of that thing! God only knows what the visibility was like in there.

I think the hat is doing most of the heavy lifting to keep Miss Namibia's costume from being Just An Evening Dress, sadly.

Oh, yikes. It's more obvious in motion but Miss Nepal's bodice looks like it's made of craft foam and it fits real weird. The rest of it looks a little like she got together with Miss Cyprus and a pile of tablecloths for a sewing bee last night, I'm sorry to say.

Miss Netherlands has chosen a Tribute to Delft. I think if I were in charge of this costume I would do a much fuller skirt that falls from the waist, instead of the weird trumpet-skirt-with-hoop we've got here. And, obviously, I would make the windmill on the bodice actually spin.

It looks like she's having some issues keeping the wings and peplum in place, but I really like Miss New Zealand's costume from a design perspective. It at least slightly resembles the bird it's supposed to be (New Zealand fantail) and I think the feather pattern is meant to be in a Maori art style.

Miss Nicaragua is a Sexy Cathedral, which I think might be a Miss Universe first and is definitely a big old step closer to drag.

Okay, pausing here to get the next batch ready.

[divinejhonson]

Your Path to Success in Bulgaria Starts with Pakistan’s Best Recruitment Agency

 In today’s interconnected world, international job opportunities are no longer a dream but a reachable reality for skilled and motivated individuals. Among the many destinations in Europe that are now welcoming foreign workers, Bulgaria has emerged as an increasingly attractive option. With its growing economy, reasonable cost of living, and expanding demand for labor in sectors such as construction, agriculture, healthcare, and hospitality, Bulgaria is opening its doors to Pakistani workers like never before. At the forefront of connecting Pakistani talent with Bulgarian opportunities is Falisha Manpower, a name now synonymous with trust, efficiency, and professionalism. As a certified Recruitment Agency for Bulgaria in Pakistan, Falisha Manpower provides an all-in-one recruitment solution—from job matching and document handling to visa processing and post-departure support.

Why Bulgaria? A Promising Destination for Pakistani Workers

Bulgaria, a member of the European Union, is currently undergoing positive economic transformation. As local businesses expand and infrastructure projects scale up, there is a growing demand for international labor. The following sectors in Bulgaria are actively hiring foreign workers:

Construction and Infrastructure: Masonry, carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work

Healthcare: Nurses, caregivers, and support staff

Agriculture: Seasonal farm work, greenhouse labor, and food processing

Hospitality: Hotel staff, chefs, waiters, and housekeeping

Manufacturing and General Labor: Factory workers, machine operators, and warehouse staff

The good news? Bulgarian employers are increasingly turning to Pakistani manpower due to their strong work ethic, adaptability, and technical skills. However, securing a legal, safe, and rewarding job in Bulgaria requires the right recruitment partner—one that understands the system, speaks the language of compliance, and genuinely cares for workers. That’s where Falisha Manpower excels.

Your Trusted Recruitment Partner for Bulgaria

Falisha Manpower has rapidly become one of the Top Manpower Agencies In Pakistan for international job placements. The agency is fully licensed by the Government of Pakistan and adheres to the highest ethical standards in overseas employment.

Here’s why thousands of workers trust Falisha Manpower:

Government-Approved and Licensed

Operating under the laws and guidelines of the Bureau of Emigration & Overseas Employment, Falisha ensures all recruitments are legal, traceable, and transparent.

Strong Network of Employers in Bulgaria

Falisha works directly with vetted Bulgarian employers and recruitment partners. These employers offer fair wages, legal contracts, and safe working conditions.

End-to-End Services

From job matching and documentation to visa application and travel arrangements, Falisha provides a 360-degree service package. You don’t need to worry about dealing with middlemen or illegal brokers.

Cultural and Pre-Departure Training

Workers are trained in basic Bulgarian culture, language tips, and workplace etiquette, helping them adapt quickly to their new environment.

How to Get a Job in Bulgaria Through Falisha Manpower

Falisha Manpower has streamlined the overseas employment process into simple, actionable steps:

1. Registration & Initial Assessment

Interested candidates register with Falisha either online or by visiting their office. Their documents and qualifications are evaluated, and suitable job options are suggested.

2. Job Matching

Falisha’s team matches you with available jobs in Bulgaria that align with your experience, skills, and interest. All job offers are 100% verified and backed by employer contracts.

3. Interview (if required)

Some Bulgarian employers may require online interviews or skill assessments. Falisha arranges these with proper preparation.

4. Documentation & Visa Processing

Once the job offer is confirmed, Falisha assists in compiling all required documents: passport, medical reports, visa forms, employment contracts, etc. The team guides you through the entire visa submission process.

5. Pre-Departure Orientation

Before you fly out, Falisha will give you a complete orientation regarding travel, job expectations, accommodation, and legal rights in Bulgaria.

6. Post-Arrival Support

Even after you arrive in Bulgaria, Falisha maintains contact to ensure you are settling in well and that your employer is fulfilling their commitments.

Job Categories in High Demand in Bulgaria

Skilled Labor

Masons

Electricians

Plumbers

Welders

Carpenters

Agriculture & Farming

Fruit/Vegetable Pickers

Greenhouse Workers

Dairy and Livestock Staff

Healthcare

Nursing Assistants

Home Care Providers

Medical Technicians

Hospitality

Hotel Housekeeping

Kitchen Staff

Servers and Hosts

General Labor

Factory Machine Operators

Packaging Workers

Warehouse Helpers

Why Falisha Manpower Is Among the Top Manpower Agencies In Pakistan

Falisha isn’t just another recruitment company; it’s a brand that has grown by putting the worker first. Here's why it's listed as one of the Top Manpower Agencies In Pakistan:

Transparency

You will always receive clear information about job responsibilities, salary, working hours, accommodation, and benefits—before signing any contract.

No Hidden Charges

Falisha operates under strict rules against exploitation. Any service fees are clearly mentioned and go toward visa filing, documentation, and administrative support.

Dedicated Visa Experts

The agency has a team of visa processing professionals who understand Bulgaria’s immigration protocols and ensure a higher success rate for visa approvals.

Supportive Team

Whether you are a first-time traveler or an experienced overseas worker, Falisha’s team will guide you at every step. From emotional support to legal advice—they are always one call away.

Tips for Aspiring Workers Who Want to Work in Bulgaria

Get Certified: If you are a skilled worker, ensure your skills are certified. Falisha can also guide you to short-term courses that improve your employability.

Keep Your Documents Ready: Updated CV, valid passport, and educational/work experience documents.

Avoid Illegal Agents: Only work with licensed agencies like Falisha Manpower.

Be Honest in Applications: Don’t exaggerate your experience or qualifications—authenticity goes a long way.

Learn Basic English or Bulgarian: Communication skills help with job interviews and workplace adaptation.

Conclusion

The global job market is changing, and Pakistanis are in high demand across Europe, including Bulgaria. Whether you're a skilled laborer, a hospitality professional, or an agricultural worker, the opportunities are real but only if you go through the right channels. Falisha Manpower provides you with a legal, secure, and rewarding path to overseas employment. As a certified Recruitment Agency for Bulgaria in Pakistan, Falisha ensures that every step of your international career journey is backed by expertise, care, and transparency.