Archive · 26 May 2025
Uganda's LGBTQ Community Faces Worsening Persecution Since Anti-Gay Law
Imagine a country where a new law made it dangerous to be gay.
In Uganda, that's what happened with a new law against homosexuality.
Now, people in the LGBTQ+ community are scared because they are being threatened and attacked.
Some have been beaten up or even sexually assaulted.
The police are also harassing and arresting people based on their sexual orientation.
Even organizations that help LGBTQ+ people are being targeted.
It's like the law gave people permission to be mean and violent towards others just because of who they love.
Uganda's LGBTQ+ community faces increased persecution after the Anti-Homosexuality Act of 2023.
The Anti-Homosexuality Act imposes penalties up to life in prison, with some provisions punishable by death.
HRW reported a climate of fear, with increased harassment, extortion, and arbitrary arrests.
LGBTQ+ organizations have been targeted, with some banned and staff facing threats and arrests.
Lawyers representing LGBTQ+ people also face heightened harassment.
- Who
- Uganda's LGBTQ+ community, activists, and organizations.
- What
- LGBTQ+ individuals and organizations are facing increased harassment, threats, and violence.
- When
- Since the passing of the Anti-Homosexuality Act of 2023.
- Where
- Uganda
- Why
- The Anti-Homosexuality Act of 2023 has led to increased persecution against the LGBTQ+ community.
LGBTQ+ Community and Rights Groups
Uganda Government
Government Response
LGBTQ+ Community and Rights Groups
LGBTQ+ rights groups and international partners pulled funding and condemned the law.
Uganda Government
The Ugandan government has not responded to requests for information regarding the human rights violations.
- Law
- Anti-Homosexuality Act of 2023
- Penalties
- Up to life in prison; 'aggravated homosexuality' punishable by death
- Reported By
- Human Rights Watch (HRW)
- Harassment Types
- Harassment, extortion, arbitrary arrests