Donald Trump's actions and rhetoric against LGBTQIA+ rights have been strategic moves aimed at appealing to his conservative voter base. His campaign employed anti-LGBTQ+ messaging, particularly targeting transgender individuals, with misleading claims about gender surgeries on children to energize conservative support. Trump framed his policies as protecting children from what he termed "radical gender ideology," often positioning transgender rights as a threat to traditional values. His administration also sought to reshape the judiciary by appointing judges with demonstrable anti-LGBTQ+ bias, creating long-term challenges for transgender rights. Furthermore, Trump invoked religious freedom to justify discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals, allowing faith-based contractors to exclude them from federal programs. Significant rights were stripped during his first term, including a military service ban for transgender individuals and the elimination of healthcare protections under the Affordable Care Act, which made it easier for providers to refuse services. The administration fought against workplace protections, arguing for the right to fire LGBTQ+ workers based on sexual orientation or gender identity. Overall, Trump's policies aimed at diminishing LGBTQIA+ rights had widespread implications across various aspects of life, including military service, healthcare access, and workplace rights.

LGBTQIA+ communities face significant discrimination and violence worldwide, particularly in regions like the Middle East and North Africa, where laws criminalizing same-sex relationships persist. Human Rights Watch highlights ongoing abuses, including torture and killings. The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development emphasizes that no one should be left behind, promoting human rights and gender equality. Achieving these goals relies on the inclusion of marginalized groups, including LGBTQIA+ individuals, whose rights are often overlooked. Discrimination limits their access to education and employment, directly hindering the fulfillment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The United States plays a critical role in advancing global LGBTQIA+ rights despite current domestic challenges. Its activism can inspire movements worldwide. Additionally, Western European countries have been pivotal in promoting LGBTQIA+ rights as human rights, with substantial legal advancements, including the legalization of same-sex marriage. Organizations within the region are actively engaging LGBTQ advocates with the SDGs, reinforcing global solidarity. Overall, advancing LGBTQIA+ rights and inclusion is essential not only for achieving the 2030 Agenda but for building equitable, just societies worldwide.