America's New Top Health Diplomat Raises Concerns with Stance on Abortion and Gender In a move that has sparked controversy, the Biden administration has appointed Bethany Kozma to a key global health position at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Kozma, who has a history of campaigning against abortion rights and gender-affirming care, will now lead the Office of Global Affairs, a critical office responsible for shaping the United States' global health policies and initiatives. Kozma's appointment comes at a crucial time, as the world continues to grapple with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and other pressing global health challenges. Her past advocacy work, however, has raised concerns among reproductive rights advocates and LGBTQ+ organizations, who fear that her personal views may influence the administration's approach to crucial health issues. Prior to her current role, Kozma was known for her involvement in various conservative advocacy groups, where she actively campaigned against abortion rights and the provision of gender-affirming care, particularly for transgender youth. In 2017, she co-authored an op-ed in The Washington Times, in which she argued that the Obama administration's guidance on transgender student rights in schools was a "troubling overreach" and threatened "the privacy and safety of our nation's children." Kozma's appointment to the Office of Global Affairs has drawn intense scrutiny, as this position holds significant sway over the US government's global health agenda, including its stance on issues such as sexual and reproductive health, LGBTQ+ rights, and access to essential medical services. Critics fear that her personal views may shape the administration's policies in ways that could undermine the rights and wellbeing of marginalized communities worldwide. "Bethany Kozma's history of opposing abortion rights and transgender rights raises serious concerns about her ability to lead the Office of Global Affairs effectively and impartially," said Sarah Warbelow, the legal director of the Human Rights Campaign. "The United States must be a global leader in promoting and protecting the health and rights of all people, including women and LGBTQ+ individuals." The Biden administration, however, has defended Kozma's appointment, arguing that her experience and expertise in global health make her a valuable asset to the team. In a statement, the HHS spokesperson noted that Kozma's role will involve coordinating the department's engagement with international partners and multilateral organizations, such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations. "Bethany Kozma's extensive experience in global health policy and her commitment to improving health outcomes around the world make her well-suited for this important role," the spokesperson said. "The Biden administration is dedicated to advancing a comprehensive, evidence-based global health agenda that prioritizes the needs of all people, regardless of their gender identity or reproductive choices." Nonetheless, Kozma's appointment has sparked concerns among public health experts and human rights advocates, who worry that her personal views may undermine the United States' global leadership on critical health issues. They argue that the Office of Global Affairs should be led by an individual with a proven track record of championing universal access to healthcare, reproductive rights, and LGBTQ+ equality. "The Office of Global Affairs plays a crucial role in shaping the United States' global health priorities and initiatives," said Dr. Jennifer Kates, the director of global health and HIV policy at the Kaiser Family Foundation. "It's essential that this position is filled by someone who can navigate complex, sensitive issues with impartiality, respect for human rights, and a commitment to evidence-based policymaking." As Kozma assumes her new role, the global health community will be closely watching to see how her appointment influences the US government's approach to issues such as maternal and child health, HIV/AIDS treatment and prevention, and the integration of LGBTQ+ healthcare needs into international programs. "The United States has a long history of being a global leader in public health and humanitarian assistance," said Dr. Kates. "It's critical that we maintain that leadership and continue to champion the health and rights of all people, regardless of their background or identity. Anything less would be a betrayal of our values and our commitment to global health equity."