Our Work

Policy Briefs

As LGBTIQ communities face global backlash, evidence-based policy has never been more important. Our policy briefs provide clear answers to the questions: “What human rights are at stake?”, "What should governments do?", and "What is Outright's position on this issue?" Our briefs offer menus of rights-based policy options and clarify where we stand on topics from legal gender recognition to conversion practices.

These briefs draw from Outright International's expertise on LGBTIQ policy issues, offering practical recommendations grounded in human rights law and community experience.

Toward Policy Inclusion

In the face of global backlash, we must hold our ground. At Outright International, we support evidence-based policymaking grounded in human rights and inclusion.

Policy Guidance

Our policy briefs offer practical guidance on diverse policy issues to a range of stakeholders, from activists to policymakers.

Frameworks

We ground our positions in international standards on human rights, gender equality, and sustainable development to advance an LGBTIQ-inclusive agenda.

Best Practices

Our policy briefs showcase best practices from all corners of the world, as well as tips on what not to do.

Lived Experience

Drawing on our decades of research and programmatic work with LGBTIQ communities, this series offers case studies and personal stories, demonstrating the value of policymaking informed by lived experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who Uses These Briefs?

Government Officials seeking to create LGBTIQ-inclusive policies
Civil Society Organizations working on human rights advocacy
Policymakers drafting legislation that affects LGBTIQ communities
Advocates who need evidence-based arguments for change
Partners wanting to understand Outright's positions and contribute effectively to change
Donors wanting to contribute effectively to change
Media looking for expert analysis on LGBTIQ policy issues
Researchers studying LGBTIQ people’s rights and policy approaches

What are Outright Policy Briefs?

Outright Policy Briefs are expert documents that provide clear policy guidance on human rights issues relevant to LGBTIQ communities. Each brief combines legal analysis, international standards, case studies, and community perspectives to help governments and advocates create more inclusive, rights-based, and evidence-driven policies.

How are these different from position papers?

While we provide clear guidance, we recognize that different countries may adopt different approaches depending on their context. We highlight best practices and human rights principles rather than imposing one-size-fits-all solutions.

What topics do the policy briefs cover?

Our briefs cover a wide range of issues, including legal gender recognition, conversion practices, gender-affirming healthcare, education, family recognition, non-discrimination, intersex genital mutilation, sex work, and more. We release new briefs regularly.

Who writes these policy briefs?

Our Law, Policy, and Research department creates each brief, drawing on Outright's decades of work with LGBTIQ communities globally. Each brief goes through expert review before publication.

How do you decide what positions to take?

We ground our positions in international human rights law, sustainable development frameworks, and the lived experiences of LGBTIQ communities. Where multiple rights-based approaches to an issue exist, we acknowledge that range while highlighting effective practices.

Are these briefs based on actual community experiences?

Yes. Each brief includes case studies and stories from LGBTIQ people, ensuring our recommendations reflect real experiences, not just legal theory.

How often do you release new policy briefs?

We release new briefs regularly throughout the year, often timed to international awareness days, report launches, or current policy discussions.

Can governments and lawmakers use these briefs when drafting legislation?

Absolutely. That's one of our main goals. These briefs provide the evidence and arguments to support LGBTIQ-inclusive legislation and policy reform.

Do you update the briefs?

We update specific briefs as needed when there are significant developments in law, policy, or international standards.

Can I share these briefs with policymakers in my country?

Yes. We encourage advocates, organizations, and stakeholders to share these briefs with government officials and other decision-makers.

What if I disagree with a position in a brief?

We welcome discussion. While we strive to reflect best practices and human rights principles, we recognize that LGBTIQ movements include different viewpoints. Contact us at comms@outrightinternational.org to share feedback.