×

Protecting rights, Saving Lives

Gender Rights Watch (GRW) is a leading advocacy organization with roots in Lahore, Pakistan, and NYC, USA. Our mission is to champion the rights of all gender minorities, not only in Pakistan but also across the globe, especially in the countries where they lack socio-legal recognition. We are dedicated to combating misinformation, raising awareness, providing medical and legal aid to the community, and advocating for legislative protections to ensure equality and justice for all.

Image

Aisha Mughal

Aisha Mughal is a distinguished transgender rights activist, researcher, and PhD scholar at the University of York's School for Business and Society. In 2020, she made history as the first transgender woman to represent her government at the UN CEDAW Committee in Geneva, marking a significant milestone for transgender representation on the global stage. A recipient of the "Pride of Pakistan" Award, Aisha has been instrumental in advancing human rights for the transgender community in Pakistan. Her extensive career includes roles such as the UNDP Expert Consultant to the Ministry of Human Rights, Ambassador for Inclusive Education in Punjab, and co-founder of the Wajood Society. Aisha has also served on the Executive Board of ILGA Asia and contributed significantly to the passage of the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act 2018 in Pakistan. Her research on transgender issues and HIV has been published in renowned journals, reflecting her dedication to academic and social change. As a PhD Scholar, board member for ILGA Asia and a consultant for various governmental and international organizations, Aisha continues to champion the empowerment, health, and rights of transgender individuals.
Image

Ani Zonneveld

Ani Zonneveld is the founder and President of Muslims for Progressive Values (MPV), GRW’s sister organization, which advocates for social justice, equality, freedom of expression, and LGBTQ rights. As a writer, singer/songwriter, and staunch supporter of universal human rights, Ani has led MPV’s expansion across major U.S. cities and founded the Alliance of Inclusive Muslims. She engages with the United Nations to challenge human rights abuses and promote inclusive Islam. Ani's extensive contributions include co-authoring the "Inclusive Islam Curriculum Rooted in Human Rights," participating in the U.N. Faith Advisory Council, and being commissioned to create anti-hate speech workshops for Muslim communities. Recognized as an “inspirational woman” by the LA Times in 2023, Ani's work spans authoring articles, producing educational videos, and organizing interfaith arts festivals. A Grammy-certified songwriter, she uses music to counter radicalism and promote social justice from a progressive Muslim perspective. Born in Malaysia and raised in diverse cultural settings, Ani’s inclusive worldview shapes her activism and advocacy efforts.