US President Joe Biden urges Uganda to repeal Anti-Homosexuality Law
In response to Uganda’s recent enactment of the Anti-Homosexuality Law, President Joe Biden has called for its immediate repeal. The White House released a statement on May 29, condemning the law as a “tragic violation of universal human rights” and stating that it is fundamentally wrong. Additionally, the US government has announced economic sanctions against Uganda and intends to impose visa sanctions on officials involved in the enactment of the law and engaged in corrupt practices. President Biden’s stance emphasizes the importance of upholding human rights and equality for all individuals.
President Museveni signs anti-LGBTQ law
Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Bill Signed Into Law by President Museveni
On May 29, President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda officially signed the controversial anti-homosexuality bill, enacting it into law. The legislation specifically targets gay sexual acts and carries severe penalties, including a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. Aggravated offenses, such as sexual abuse against minors or disabled individuals, or deliberately infecting someone with a life-threatening illness, can even lead to the death penalty. The law also mandates the reporting of any homosexual abuse involving children or vulnerable individuals. International organizations have expressed deep concern over the potential negative impact of this law on health education, outreach programs for AIDS, and the safety and well-being of LGBTQ individuals. The enactment of this law has sparked widespread debate and drawn attention from around the world.
Statement from President Joe Biden on the Enactment of Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Act
The enactment of Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Act is a tragic violation of universal human rights—one that is not worthy of the Ugandan people, and one that jeopardizes the prospects of critical economic growth for the entire country. I join with people around the world—including many in Uganda—in calling for its immediate repeal. No one should have to live in constant fear for their life or being subjected to violence and discrimination. It is wrong.
Since the Anti-Homosexuality Act was introduced, reports of violence and discrimination targeting Ugandans who are or are perceived to be LGBTQI+ are on the rise. Innocent Ugandans now fear going to hospitals, clinics, or other establishments to receive life-saving medical care lest they be targeted by hateful reprisals. Some have been evicted from their homes or fired from their jobs. And the prospect of graver threats—including lengthy prison sentences, violence, abuse—threatens any number of Ugandans who want nothing more than to live their lives in safety and freedom.
This shameful Act is the latest development in an alarming trend of human rights abuses and corruption in Uganda. The dangers posed by this democratic backsliding are a threat to everyone residing in Uganda, including U.S. government personnel, the staff of our implementing partners, tourists, members of the business community, and others. As such, I have directed my National Security Council to evaluate the implications of this law on all aspects of U.S. engagement with Uganda, including our ability to safely deliver services under the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and other forms of assistance and investments. My Administration will also incorporate the impacts of the law into our review of Uganda’s eligibility for the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). And we are considering additional steps, including the application of sanctions and restriction of entry into the United States against anyone involved in serious human rights abuses or corruption.
The United States shares a deep and committed partnership with the people of Uganda. For more than 60 years, we have worked together to help millions of Ugandans live healthier, more productive lives.
Our programs have boosted economic growth and agricultural productivity, increased investments in Ugandan businesses, and strengthened our trade cooperation. In total, the U.S. Government invests nearly $1 billion annually in Uganda’s people, business, institutions, and military to advance our common agenda. The scale of our commitments speaks to the value we place on this partnership—and our faith in the people of Uganda to build for themselves a better future. It is my sincere hope that we can continue to build on this progress, together, and strengthen protections for the human rights of people everywhere.
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