Former U.S. Envoy Criticizes Current Administration for Policies Impacting Global LGBTQI+ Rights

Former U.S. Envoy Criticizes Current Administration for Policies Impacting Global LGBTQI+ Rights

Jessica Stern, who served as the U.S. special envoy for the promotion of LGBTQ and intersex rights, has expressed deep concerns about the current administration’s approach to these issues. Stern, who worked under the Biden-Harris administration, recently spoke about the systematic dismantling of efforts she and her team had put in place to advance LGBTQI+ rights globally.

During a telephone interview on March 19, Stern explained that her role was pivotal in shaping U.S. foreign policy on LGBTQI+ issues. However, she lamented the changes over the past months, describing them as a systematic dismantling of progress. "It has been very difficult for the past two months to see that work being systematically dismantled," she stated.

Stern previously led Outright International, a global advocacy group for LGBTQ and intersex rights, before being appointed by former President Joe Biden in June 2021. The promotion of these rights was a significant part of the Biden-Harris administration's foreign policy, focusing on issues such as the decriminalization of consensual same-sex relations and marriage equality in countries where legal and judicial processes allowed.

The current administration’s decision to freeze most U.S. foreign aid spending for at least 90 days has significantly impacted global LGBTQ and intersex rights movements. Stern criticized this move, highlighting an executive order that bans the State Department from issuing passports with "X" gender markers. This decision has led to travel advisories from Germany and other countries for transgender and nonbinary individuals planning to visit the U.S.

In her critique, Stern noted that the administration has adopted anti-LGBTQI strategies from other countries, importing some of the most harmful ideas. This has emboldened leaders like Hungary's Viktor Orbán and Russia's Vladimir Putin, who are known for their regressive stances on LGBTQI rights.

"It’s one thing when a small country implements anti-LGBTQI laws and policies," Stern remarked, "but when a superpower does so, it accelerates backlash against LGBTQI people worldwide." She warned that the U.S. regression is likely to legitimize and promote these ideas globally, forming new alliances that propagate anti-LGBTQI sentiment.

Former colleagues of Stern at the State Department have expressed fear and uncertainty about their jobs amidst these changes. "They are afraid every day," Stern said. "They never know if they will be fired or placed on administrative leave." The disruption caused by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has left many departments in disarray, with significant staff reductions.

Stern recalled her time as an envoy with optimism and hope for future progress. She praised former Secretary of State Antony Blinken as an ally and expressed gratitude for the support of her former colleagues, who shared her commitment to human rights, equality, and the rule of law.

Despite the current challenges, Stern remains hopeful. "The situation we find ourselves in will not last forever," she asserted. To "hold the line," she emphasized the importance of litigation, protests, and demanding accountability from lawmakers. Stern is determined to organize for the future, advocating for safety and prosperity for all people.

Since leaving her official position, Stern has been teaching at Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs and is writing about her experience as a human rights expert. She is also in the process of launching a new organization dedicated to activism and advocacy for LGBTQI+ rights.

"I love being an activist again," Stern said. "If there was ever a time when activists are needed, it’s now." Her commitment to resistance and advocacy continues to inspire efforts for equality and justice worldwide.