Straight as a Rainbow? Evolving Attitudes Toward Homosexuality in Pakistan

The debate over homosexuality continues across the globe, reflecting significant disparities in public opinion regarding the acceptability of homosexuality and laws regulating LGBTQ+ unions. The study in hand examines the shifting landscape of attitudes toward homosexuality in Pakistan, a country known for its deep-rooted cultural values and traditions. The analysis is underpinned by data sourced from the 2012 and 2018 waves of the World Values Survey. The results demonstrate a notable upswing in social tolerance, primarily driven by cohort succession and, to some extent, changes in attitudes within cohorts. Also, education, gender, age cohorts, and liberal attitudes toward divorce, prostitution, and abortion play a significant role in shaping the acceptance of homosexuality. When it comes to accepting homosexuals as neighbors, religion shows statistically insignificant impacts. However, its influence on the perceived justifiability of homosexuality is in opposite directions. This research offers constructive insights for policymakers and social organizations by highlighting regional and demographic variations in attitudes toward homosexuality. The findings can inform targeted interventions and public awareness campaigns aimed at fostering greater social acceptance and reducing stigma.