LGBT Rights
People around the world face violence and inequality—and sometimes torture, even execution—because of who they love, how they look, or who they are. Sexual orientation and gender identity are integral aspects of our selves and should never lead to discrimination or abuse. Human Rights Watch works for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender peoples' rights, and with activists representing a multiplicity of identities and issues. We document and expose abuses based on sexual orientation and gender identity worldwide, including torture, killing and executions, arrests under unjust laws, unequal treatment, censorship, medical abuses, discrimination in health and jobs and housing, domestic violence, abuses against children, and denial of family rights and recognition. We advocate for laws and policies that will protect everyone’s dignity. We work for a world where all people can enjoy their rights fully.
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South Africa: Broken Promises to Aid Gender-Based Violence Survivors
Improve Shelter Funding; Increase Access for Sex Workers, LGBT, Undocumented Survivors
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“I Just Try to Make It Home Safe”
Violence and the Human Rights of Transgender People in the United States
News
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Interview: Helping LGBT People Flee Afghanistan
Rainbow Railroad Operates in Secret to Bring People to Safety
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Namibian Court Rules It Cannot Require Recognition of Same-Sex Marriages
Legal Reform Needed to Protect LGBT Rights
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Guatemala: Anti-Trans Bill Threatens Rights
Reject Discrimination; Bolster Protections for LGBT People
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US: Slow Progress on Human Rights
High-Level Pronouncements Marred by Systemic Racism, Abuse of Asylum Seekers
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South Korean Court Declines to Recognize Same-Sex Partners
Ruling Highlights Need for Legislative Protections
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Chile Overwhelmingly Passes Marriage Equality
Addresses Parentage, Joint Adoption, Assisted Reproductive Technology
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On LGBTQ+ Rights, Ghana’s Bishops Choose to Ignore Pope
As the Catholic Church continues to make more inclusive comments about LGBTQ+ rights, the Church's leadership in Ghana supports a violent and repressive draft law targeting LGBTQ+ people.
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Biden Administration Confronts US Anti-Trans Violence
State and Federal Lawmakers Should Address Structural Discrimination
