​Guide on International & Regional Standards for LGBTQ Rights Applicable to Venezuela​

The rights of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ) individuals have gained worldwide recognition in recent decades, leading many countries to change their legal systems to protect these rights. However, many countries still present significant challenges and potential avenues for safeguarding these rights.

This guide explains the legal status of LGBTQ rights and identifies advocacy opportunities on behalf of these rights in Venezuela.

The document is organized into four sections to empower stakeholders with relevant legal knowledge and mechanisms for driving change:

• Section I provides an overview of the legal status of LGBTQ rights in Venezuela, highlighting challenges and progress.
• Section II examines relevant international legal instruments that Venezuela has ratified or is considering for future ratification that would help protect LGBTQ rights in the country.
• Section III explains the international human rights mechanisms to protect LGBTQ rights in Venezuela.
• Section IV outlines actions the Venezuelan state should take to protect LGBTQ persons in the future.

This guide aims to empower human rights activists, offer guidance for policymakers, and generally support LGBTQ rights in Venezuela, fostering a more inclusive society where LGBTQ individuals are fully recognized and enjoy equal protection under the law.

Read more about the Vance Center’s work on LGBTQ rights in Venezuela

This guide was researched, written, and produced by a team from the law firm ArentFox Schiff, including Maya S. Cohen, Mario A. Torrico, Helenka Budzynska Mietka, and Gamin Kim, in collaboration with the Cyrus R. Vance Center for International Justice. The authors also acknowledge special contributions by Hunter Carter of ArentFox Schiff.  

Read the full guide here