The International Human Rights Defense Act of 2025 aims to combat global criminalization, violence, and discrimination faced by LGBTQI+ individuals. It establishes a dedicated Special Envoy within the Department of State to lead United States efforts in advancing their human rights internationally. This legislation underscores the U.S. policy to systematically integrate and coordinate responses to these abuses worldwide. The bill mandates the establishment of a permanent Special Envoy for the Human Rights of LGBTQI+ People , appointed by the President, potentially at Ambassador rank with Senate consent. This Special Envoy will serve as the principal advisor to the Secretary of State on these matters. Their purpose is to direct U.S. Government efforts regarding human rights abuses against LGBTQI+ people and represent the United States in international engagements. The Special Envoy's duties include directing activities, policies, programs, and funding across State Department bureaus and coordinating relevant U.S. Government policies with other Federal agencies. They will represent the U.S. in diplomatic forums and lead interagency coordination on foreign policy and humanitarian priorities. Furthermore, the Envoy must develop a global strategy to prevent and respond to criminalization, discrimination, and violence against LGBTQI+ people, providing annual briefings and assessments to Congress. The Act outlines a comprehensive U.S. policy to prevent and respond to discrimination and violence against LGBTQI+ people internationally. This policy includes supporting local capacity building, consulting with non-governmental organizations, and employing a multisectoral approach across economic, education, health, and legal sectors. It also requires recipients of U.S. Government funding to establish non-discrimination policies inclusive of sexual orientation, gender identity, and sex characteristics. To enhance accountability, the bill amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to require annual Country Reports on Human Rights Practices to include detailed information on criminalization, discrimination, and violence based on sexual orientation, gender identity, or sex characteristics. The Secretary of State is authorized to provide assistance for programs that respond to human rights abuses and social exclusion of LGBTQI+ people. This includes support for legal development, health sector enhancement, and a leadership program for international LGBTQI+ activists.