UN Human Rights Council Renews LGBT Rights Mandate Despite US Withdrawal

The U.N. Human Rights Council has voted to renew the mandate of the independent LGBT rights expert, South African scholar Graeme Reid, for another three years despite opposition from several countries and the withdrawal of U.S. support under President Donald Trump's administration. The mandate focuses on documenting abuses and promoting dialogue to enhance protections for LGBT communities worldwide, amid rising global backlash and crackdowns on LGBTQ+ rights. Rights advocates and organizations, including Human Rights Watch and over 1,200 groups from 167 countries, have called for the renewal, emphasizing the ongoing violence, discrimination, and criminalization faced by LGBT individuals in many regions. The vote passed with 29 in favor, 15 against, and 3 abstentions, with support from countries such as Chile, Germany, Kenya, and South Africa. Critics, including some Muslim countries and conservative blocs, oppose the mandate, viewing it as promoting controversial views. Advocates argue the renewal sends a vital message reaffirming the need for sustained attention to protect LGBT rights and dignity globally.