The Ugandan Parliament has passed a controversial 2023 Anti-Homosexuality Bill, which imposes life imprisonment for same-sex sexual conduct, and up to ten years for attempted same-sex sexual acts. The Bill also imposes the death penalty for “aggravated homosexuality”, a broad term used to describe actions including same-sex acts among people living with HIV, and criminalises the “promotion” of homosexuality, a provision that encourages homophobia.
Uganda’s President, Yoweri Museveni, recently sent the Bill back to parliament for revision; however, the Bill has now passed after President Museveni failed to veto it.
Responding to news that the Ugandan parliament has passed the notorious Anti-Homosexuality Bill, Flavia Mwangovya, Amnesty International’s Deputy Regional Director, said: “This contemptuous law blatantly violates the human rights of LGBTQ+ people in Uganda, including the right to privacy, freedom from discrimination and the right to equal protection under the law.
“This law will have a devastating impact on LGBTI individuals in Uganda, who already face persecution and discrimination.
“It will fuel violence and discrimination against them and reinforce stigma and stereotypes related to homosexuality.
“It will also have a chilling effect on freedom of expression, as people who support LGBTI rights may fear persecution and imprisonment.
“The Ugandan president must immediately veto this law and take steps to protect the human rights of all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
“Amnesty also calls on the international community to urgently put pressure on the Ugandan government to protect the rights of LGBTI individuals in the country.”