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Uganda’s anti-LGBTQ+ bill officially comes into law

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Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has signed a new anti-LGBTQ+ bill into law, which declares any ‘engagement in acts of homosexuality’ as a punishable offence. It proves that LGBTQ+ rights and legal protection are still intense issues that must be fought for.

Uganda has passed a controversial new bill that imposes a range of harsh punishments for homosexual acts and any alliance with LGBTQ+ causes.

Signed on 26th May 2023 by Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni, the bill includes a potential death penalty punishment for what it deems ‘homosexual acts’, with a particular concern for the spreading of HIV. It also pushes long prison sentences for ‘promoting’ homosexuality or supporting members of the LGBTQ+ community.

The bill was passed with almost unanimous support in Ugandan parliament when it was first proposed in March. An amended version was passed in May with 371 MPs voting in favour.

In a statement, Uganda’s parliament speaker Anita Among said that ‘we have a culture to protect,’ and that ‘the Western world will not come to rule Uganda.’


What does this bill include?

While it has had several revisions since it was first drafted in March, nearly all of its original rules remain in place.

These include life in prison for any person convicted of grooming or trafficking children for homosexual activities. It also says that individuals or institutions which support or fund LGBTQ+ activities or organisations, including through publishing, broadcasting, or media material, can face prosecution.

Media groups, journalists, and publishers could face imprisonment for publicly advocating for gay rights or ‘promoting homosexuality.’ Property owners could face jail time if they use their premises for homosexual acts or ‘activities.’

Uganda already condemns homosexuality, but this new bill means that those helping or assisting LGBTQ+ causes can also be arrested and prosecuted. In effect, it makes governmental laws more wide-reaching, affecting anyone affiliated with the LGBTQ+ community.


What has been the response?

The Economist has noted a correlation between anti-Western rhetoric and homophobia, citing Uganda and Ghana as examples. In both cases, legislation has been pushed into law under the guise of ‘infiltration of foreign cultures,’ using the threat of Western influence to further boost homophobic ideals.

Several Kenyan politicians have described the rights of LGBTQ+ people as a ‘second colonisation’ intended to damage and shrink Africa’s population. They hope to pass a similar bill.

Outside of Uganda, many have condemned this new law.

The US, European Union, and international human rights groups have described the legislation as ‘shameful.’ US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, says that America is considering visa restrictions and potential sanctions. Supporters of Uganda’s bill say this is further evidence that Western politicians are meddling with policies that are widely supported by African nations and communities.

Even a brief scroll through the comments of most YouTube videos on this legislation shows loud, vocal support for Uganda. There is clearly a strong base both politically and publicly for this bill, despite its violent language and concerningly discriminatory foundations.

While many countries are supporting Pride Month throughout June, it is important to remember that the fight for equality remains fiercer than it ever has. As transphobic rhetoric sees a sharp uptake and Uganda pushes its most blatantly prejudiced legislation yet, there is still much to be done.

Sexuality continues to be weaponised by politicians, companies, and commentators in an effort to swathe public opinion. Until we allow sexuality to exist as a fundamental right deserving of equality, and fully provide spaces for LGBTQ+ people to express themselves freely, vocal support and events like Pride Month will forever be necessary.

Editor In Chief London, UK

I’m Charlie (He/Him), the Editor In Chief at Thred. I studied English at the University of Birmingham and as a music and gaming enthusiast, I’m a nerd for pop culture. You can find me curating playlists, designing article headline images, and sipping cider on a Thursday. Follow me on Twitter, LinkedIn and drop me some ideas/feedback via email.

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