June 15, 2023
15/6/2023

Uganda Enacts Extreme Anti-LGBTQIA+ Law, Imposing Life Imprisonment and Death Penalty

Uganda has passed one of the world's harshest anti-LGBTQIA+ laws, signed by President Yoweri Museveni, that imposes life imprisonment for homosexuality convictions and calls for the death penalty in cases of "aggravated homosexuality." This move has triggered international condemnation from Western governments, human rights activists, and LGBTQIA+ rights organizations. President Biden expressed his disapproval, highlighting potential impacts on U.S.-Uganda relations. The law, which amplifies existing anti-LGBTQIA+ sentiments in Uganda, has led to fear, persecution, and further hiding within the queer communities. Advocates are demanding the repeal of the law, emphasising the need to address pressing social issues in the country instead.

The new law drew swift criticism from the United Nations' Human Rights office and prompted Amnesty International to call for its repeal. While some lawmakers in Uganda celebrated the decision, advocates argue that the government should focus on combatting human rights violations, corruption, and other societal challenges rather than targeting LGBTQIA+ individuals. This regressive legislation follows Uganda's previous attempt to pass an anti-queer law in 2014, which was overturned due to procedural reasons amid domestic and international outrage.

Source : https://www.npr.org/2023/05/29/1178718092/uganda-anti-gay-law

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