‘We Are Raising Our Voices’: Coping Strategies Used by Khwaja Sira in Swat, Pakistan

This study explores coping strategies used by khwaja sira, a third-gender community, in Swat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. We conducted 45 semi-structured, in-depth interviews with khwaja sira in Mingora, Swat. Interviews were conducted in Pashto, digitally audio recorded, transcribed and translated directly into English, and analysed using thematic content analysis. Applying coping theory, we identified five major themes in the interview transcripts: (1) creating community with other khwaja sira; (2) navigating safety in sex work; (3) managing interpersonal relationships; (4) increasing awareness about transgender rights; (5) trusting in kismet. Findings demonstrate how the khwaja sira community utilises a range of individual and collective coping strategies to manage experiences of social marginalisation.