In 2010, the anti-homsexuality bill was introduced in Uganda, but after facing international pressure no further discussion occurred. When re-introduced in 2012, it did not pass. In 2014, Parliament passed the bill but it was overturned on technical grounds by the courts.
But this year, the 2023 Homosexuality Act has passed and it is as follows:
- Life imprisonment for same-sex conduct
- 10 years for attempt at same-sex conduct
- Death penalty for aggravated homosexuality. To explain, this means serial offenses
- Up to 20 years imprisonment when you advocate or provide financial support for LGBTQ+ rights and organizations
- Criminal sanction for anyone who “advertises, publishes, prints, broadcasts, distributes” material, including digitally. To explain, this is regarded as “promoting or encouraging homosexuality”
- Fine or imprisonment for six months for any person who fails to report someone they suspect of participating in same-sex acts to the police
- Supportive family members or friends of LGBTQ+ people could be imprisoned if they fail to report their loved ones to the authorities
- If anyone conducts a same-sex marriage ceremony, they could be imprisoned for up to 10 years
- For example, if anyone were to rent a room to a gay couple, they could go to jail for 10 years.
Being apart of the LGBTQ+ community in Uganda is now a death sentence. It isn’t safe for anyone.
