A new report from Human Rights Watch (HRW) reveals intensified persecution against Uganda’s LGBTQ community since a stringent anti-gay law was enacted two years ago. Released on Monday, the report details widespread discrimination, violence, and human rights abuses perpetrated by Ugandan authorities, including the spread of misinformation and hate speech.
The 2023 Anti-Homosexuality Act introduced severe penalties, including life imprisonment for consensual same-sex relations and the death penalty for “aggravated homosexuality.” Following its passage, the law faced condemnation from rights groups and international partners, leading some to withdraw funding from Uganda.
Escalation of Abuse and Violence
HRW’s report asserts that the Ugandan government has pursued a campaign of persecution following the law’s enactment. It documents extensive police abuse, such as harassment, extortion, and arbitrary arrests targeting individuals based on their perceived or actual sexual orientation or gender identity.
The human rights group found that the law significantly heightened existing abuse and discrimination against LGBTQ individuals to unprecedented levels. The report outlines the rights violations enabled by the legislation and its severe impact on the lives of LGBTQ people, activists, allies, and their families across Uganda.
LGBTQ activists protest perceived discrimination
In the months surrounding the law’s passing, Ugandan authorities, including prominent political figures, reportedly used traditional and social media platforms to disseminate misinformation and promote hatred against LGBTQ individuals. This campaign coincided with an increase in attacks and harassment directed at LGBTQ people and rights organizations.
Oryem Nyeko, a senior Africa researcher at HRW, stated, “For the last two years, LGBT Ugandans have suffered a range of abuses because of the government’s willful decision to legislate hate against them.” He emphasized the need for Ugandan authorities to improve the environment to prevent further human rights violations and protect vulnerable individuals.
Personal Accounts and Organizational Targeting
The HRW report includes harrowing accounts from interviewees who reported a surge in threatening messages. One individual shared experiencing calls like, “We know where you stay. We know what you do.”
Another activist recounted how online threats escalated into a home invasion in 2023, where three men attacked her and sexually assaulted her friend. She reported that one assailant invoked ethnic identity while threatening her life.
Other Ugandan rights groups have documented similar trends since the law took effect. Kampala-based DefendDefenders reported eight cases of physical and sexual violence, including corrective rape, within the first 24 hours after the law’s enactment, highlighting the overwhelming need for assistance.
Ugandan activist receiving treatment after an attack
Prominent LGBTQ organizations in Uganda have also faced targeting. According to the report, this includes group bans, arrests of staff members, and harassment of lawyers representing queer clients. For example, reports emerged in May 2025 of a “Tortured” Ugandan activist dumped at border following arrest in Tanzania, illustrating the risks faced by activists.
HRW stated that it contacted relevant government, legal, and police authorities in Uganda for comment but received no response.
The situation in Uganda reflects broader challenges faced by LGBTQ communities globally. For instance, in wartime, a focus on “traditional values” has been reported to imperil Russia’s LGBTQ community, while courts in other regions, like Malaysia, have ordered the return of Swatch watches seized over LGBTQ designs, highlighting varying legal battles for recognition and rights.
The HRW report underscores the severe human rights consequences of the Anti-Homosexuality Act and the urgent need for change to protect the safety and rights of LGBTQ individuals in Uganda.
For more information on related topics, explore stories on global LGBTQ rights and human rights reports from international organizations.
