International Human Rights Defense Act of 2023

The International Human Rights Defense Act of 2023 establishes a permanent Special Envoy for LGBTQI+ human rights at the Department of State to lead U.S. foreign policy efforts addressing discrimination and violence against LGBTQI+ people globally. The bill requires the Special Envoy to develop an annual global strategy to prevent and respond to criminalization, discrimination, and violence against LGBTQI+ individuals, with mandatory reporting on countries that criminalize same-sex relationships or discriminate based on sexual orientation, gender identity, or sex characteristics. It directs U.S. foreign assistance to support programs that protect LGBTQI+ rights, including health initiatives addressing HIV/AIDS in LGBTQI+ communities, and requires training for U.S. personnel and foreign officials on LGBTQI+ rights issues. The bill also mandates regular congressional briefings on the status of LGBTQI+ rights worldwide and U.S. government efforts to address abuses.