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International Human Rights Defense Act: Permanent Envoy for LGBTQI+ Rights

This Act establishes a permanent Special Envoy within the US State Department dedicated to promoting and protecting the human rights of LGBTQI+ individuals globally. It formalizes a US foreign policy strategy to actively combat discrimination, violence, and criminalization against these communities worldwide. This ensures that US diplomacy and foreign aid are systematically used to advance equality and safety for LGBTQI+ people internationally.
Key points
Creates a permanent Special Envoy position in the State Department to lead global diplomatic efforts on LGBTQI+ human rights.
Requires annual US human rights reports to specifically document laws and violence targeting LGBTQI+ people in foreign countries.
Authorizes foreign assistance and programs to support activists, combat discrimination, and enhance health initiatives, including HIV/AIDS prevention.
Reinforces the policy that individuals facing persecution due to their LGBTQI+ status can seek protection in the United States.
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Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_1007
Sponsor: Sen. Markey, Edward J. [D-MA]
Process start date: 2023-03-28