World Pushes Back Against Uganda Anti-LGBTQI+ Law

A new law passed in Uganda on Tuesday, 21 March, has received harsh criticism from around the world as many are concerned about its impact on human rights.

The bill – which is one of the toughest pieces of anti-homosexual legislation in Africa – reportedly outlaws identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) and makes it a civilian’s duty to report their friends or family if they suspect anything is amiss.

According to Amnesty International’s (AI) East and Southern Africa director, Tigere Chagutah, “This ambiguous, vaguely worded law even criminalises those who ‘promote’ homosexuality.” He further went on to label it as “appalling” while speaking with an international publication.

“In reality, this deeply repressive legislation will institutionalise discrimination, hatred, and prejudice against LGBTQI+ people, including those who are perceived to be LGBTQI+ and block the legitimate work of civil society, public health professionals and community leaders,” Chagutah added.

So far, the United Nations, Human Rights Watch and AI have pleaded against the bill, while the White House of the United States of America has warned Uganda of possible sanctions and economic repercussions.

The loose wording of the legislation means that some fear life imprisonment if they are found guilty, while others believe that it may go as far as the death penalty.

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