OutRight International

OutRight International, formerly known as the International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission (IGLHRC), is a U.S.-based non-governmental organization (NGO) dedicated to advancing the human rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, and queer (LGBTIQ) individuals worldwide. Founded in 1990 by Julie Dorf, OutRight International was incorporated as a non-profit organization on November 7, 1990.

History

Initially focused on addressing LGBT human rights abuses in Russia, OutRight International has expanded its scope to support LGBTIQ rights across the globe, including the Americas, Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and Europe. The organization changed its name from IGLHRC to OutRight Action International in 2015 to be more inclusive. This change reflected its evolving mission to encompass a broader range of identities and issues[1][2].

Mission and Activities

OutRight International's mission involves developing partnerships with LGBTIQ individuals and organizations at global, regional, and national levels. The organization focuses on documenting human rights violations, advocating for inclusion and equality, and holding leaders accountable for protecting LGBTIQ rights[2]. It works to strengthen the capacity of the LGBTIQ human rights movement by providing support, training, and resources to activists and organizations worldwide[3][4].

Regional Programs

OutRight International operates through several regional programs:

• Asia: Collaborates with local groups to address gender-based violence and discrimination, promoting acceptance of sexual and gender diversity[4].
• Pacific: Seeks to increase the visibility of activists, respond to emergencies, and bridge local and international advocacy[4].
• Sub-Saharan Africa: Supports local organizations to influence positive changes in laws and policies affecting LGBTIQ people[4].
• Middle East and North Africa: Engages in capacity building, advocacy, research, and security support with local partners[5].
• Europe and Central Asia: Focuses on emergency responses to discrimination and violence, including recent actions in Ukraine[5].
• Americas: Primarily supports efforts in the Caribbean to dismantle discriminatory laws[4].

United Nations Program

OutRight International holds consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), allowing it to participate in UN meetings and contribute to policy discussions. The organization plays a key role as the secretariat of the UN LGBTI Core Group, which works to advance LGBTIQ rights within the UN framework[1][3].

Leadership

As of recent updates, the Executive Director of OutRight International is Maria Sjödin, with Kathy Teo and Elliot Vaughn serving as Co-Chairs of the Board[1].