Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has signed into law what activists worldwide have deemed one of the most severe anti-LGBTQ legislations in existence.
The Anti-Homosexuality Act 2023 has sparked outrage among international human rights organizations and activists, who argue that it must be reconsidered.
Initially proposed with a provision for 20 years imprisonment solely for identifying as LGBTQ, the bill was returned to parliament by the president in late April for revision, aiming to address concerns about it causing fear among those who require “rehabilitation.”
Anita Annet Among, the speaker of Uganda’s parliament, issued a statement on Monday affirming that they have listened to the concerns of their people and enacted legislation to protect the sanctity of the family. She stated that Uganda stands firm in defending its culture, values, and aspirations with this law.
The parliament speaker also encouraged law enforcement agencies to diligently execute their responsibilities in enforcing the Anti-Homosexuality Act fairly and firmly.
An amended version of the bill, which passed through parliament earlier this month, clarified that merely identifying as LGBTQ without engaging in homosexual acts would not be considered a criminal offense. However, most of the original features remain intact, including the provision for the death penalty for “aggravated homosexuality,” which encompasses acts such as engaging in sexual activity with a minor, having sexual relations while HIV positive, and committing incest.
The United Nations Human Rights Office has strongly condemned this anti-gay law, referring to it as “draconian and discriminatory.” The office emphasized that the legislation poses a significant threat to the rights of LGBTQ individuals and the general population, stating that it contradicts the country’s constitution and international treaties. They called for an urgent judicial review of the law.
In a joint statement, the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria, the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS, and the US President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief expressed concern that this legislation jeopardizes Kampala’s progress in responding to HIV. They emphasized that the law could have grave consequences for the country’s efforts in combating the HIV epidemic.
The United States government has previously warned Uganda of potential economic consequences if the legislation were to be implemented. The White House Press Secretary, Karine Jean-Pierre, stated in March that they were closely monitoring the situation and would assess possible actions, including economic measures, should the law be enacted.
Despite international concerns, President Museveni has called upon legislators to demonstrate patriotism, oppose homosexuality, and prepare for the potential impact of aid cuts on the country.
