International Human Rights Defense Act of 2025

Source of recordUS Congress · congress.govLast synced Jul 10, 2026

Chamber

Senate

Progress

Where this bill stands in the legislative process.

Introduced
Passed Senate
Passed House
To President
Became Law

Overview

This bill establishes a Special Envoy for the Human Rights of LGBTQI+ People within the Department of State to lead U.S. efforts to combat discrimination and violence against LGBTQI+ individuals globally. It directs the State Department to develop and implement a comprehensive strategy to address criminalization, discrimination, and violence, and requires annual reporting to Congress on the status of LGBTQI+ human rights internationally. The bill also mandates that U.S. foreign assistance programs include nondiscrimination policies and supports local organizations working to protect LGBTQI+ communities.

Key provisions

Establishes a Special Envoy for LGBTQI+ Human Rights within the Department of State.
Requires the State Department to develop and update a global strategy to prevent and respond to criminalization, discrimination, and violence against LGBTQI+ people.
Mandates annual reporting to Congress on the status of LGBTQI+ human rights internationally.
Directs the State Department to integrate LGBTQI+ human rights considerations into all foreign policy efforts.
Requires U.S. foreign assistance programs to include nondiscrimination policies.
Calls for enhanced training of foreign military and police forces on LGBTQI+ issues.
Requires the Special Envoy to consult with nongovernmental organizations working on LGBTQI+ rights.
Updates annual Country Reports on Human Rights Practices to include specific information on LGBTQI+ rights violations.