US Withdraws from International Coalition for LGBTI Rights

The United States has made the decision to step back from the United Nations LGBTI Core Group, a global alliance committed to advocating for the rights of LGBTQ+ and intersex individuals around the world.

The withdrawal occurred on February 14, with information released by the Washington Blade, although the U.S. government did not make a formal announcement. Over the weekend, a State Department spokesperson verified the withdrawal, without providing an exact date of when the decision was finalized.

Background on the UN LGBTI Core Group

Established in 2008, the UN LGBTI Core Group aims to ensure universal respect for the human rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex persons. It emphasizes protection from violence and discrimination. The group consists of over 40 countries, working collaboratively within the United Nations framework.

Current co-chairs of the group are Chile and the Netherlands. Organizations such as the European Union, the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Human Rights Watch, and Outright International participate as observers, contributing to the group's objectives. Member nations include a diverse collection from across the globe, including countries like France, Brazil, Canada, and South Africa.

Objectives and Mission

The Core Group's mission includes three main objectives: raising awareness on LGBTI issues, engaging in multilateral work and negotiations at the UN, and fostering an environment for dialogue and cooperation among UN member states and other stakeholders.

The Core Group has aimed to be a platform for constructive dialogue, striving to find common ground on issues affecting the LGBTI community globally. It has been an outlet for raising awareness and lobbying for policies that protect and promote LGBTI rights.

US Administration's Stance and Actions

During the Trump administration, there were significant shifts in policies affecting the LGBTQ+ community. Despite earlier claims from the administration about efforts to decriminalize homosexuality internationally, critics have often labeled these initiatives as ineffective or insincere.

Since the start of Trump's term, executive orders have been issued impacting various federal policies. These orders have affected the recognition of transgender individuals within US government policies and limited diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts. Moreover, changes at the State Department under these orders have included restrictions on alterations to sex markers on U.S. passports and the cessation of funding to certain arts organizations.

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has also seen significant cuts, leading to a loss of funding for programs such as the President’s Emergency Program for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). These decisions have been criticized by advocates as detrimental to the worldwide movement for LGBTQ+ and intersex rights.

Political Context and Responses

The Biden-Harris administration has positioned the promotion of LGBTQ+ and intersex rights as a fundamental aspect of its foreign policy. In September, First Lady Jill Biden addressed a Core Group event alongside the UN General Assembly, emphasizing the administration's commitment to these issues.

In previous years, Joe Biden, as Vice President, actively engaged with the Core Group, stressing the importance of international cooperation in promoting human rights for all, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.

Overall, the decision to withdraw from the UN LGBTI Core Group marks a significant shift in the U.S. stance on international LGBTI rights advocacy, drawing responses from both domestic and international communities.

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