Robert Garcia (D-CA)· Introduced November 17, 2025

International Human Rights Defense Act of 2025

H.R. 6056 · House bill International Affairs

A Democratic bill with 155 Democratic cosponsors · See all 155 cosponsors

Last activity November 17, 2025 — Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.

In committee

Introduced and handed to a committee in the chamber it started in.

The committee holds it, and most bills are never heard from again. A hearing or a committee vote would be news; silence is the usual outcome, and it kills the bill without anyone voting against it.

Its path through Congress

Introduced
In Committee

What this bill would do

The International Human Rights Defense Act of 2025 aims to establish a permanent Special Envoy for the Human Rights of LGBTQI+ People within the Department of State. This Special Envoy will serve as the principal advisor to the Secretary of State on international human rights issues involving sexual orientation, gender identity, and sex characteristics. The bill directs the government to take action against discrimination, violence, and criminalization faced by these communities globally. It also mandates the development of a United States global strategy to address these issues. Furthermore, the act requires increased documentation of such human rights abuses in annual country reports. Finally, it authorizes assistance programs to support protection, health, and leadership for LGBTQI+ individuals worldwide.

Yes· 3 of 6

Scored +9
Would LGBTQ people be better off under this?
The bill creates a dedicated federal office to protect the community from violence, criminalization, and discrimination.
Scored +8
Does this expand the rights of LGBTQ people?
The bill establishes a permanent Special Envoy to protect and advance the human rights of LGBTQI+ people globally.
Scored +5
Would immigrants be better off under this?
The legislation specifically addresses the protection and resettlement of LGBTQI+ asylum seekers.