The state of Uganda has passed a new anti-homosexuality bill, which is currently awaiting the president’s approval. The bill is aimed at keeping a check on homosexual activities. If found guilty, the sentences range from life imprisonment to even the death penalty. The bill has invited criticism from different organisations, including human rights associations.
There are reports of individuals receiving death threats for their sexual orientation in exchange for cash. The new bill in Uganda is considered to be one of the harshest anti-gay laws in the continent of Africa. The anti-homosexuality laws already existed in the country, but the new changes have added numerous criminal offences.
Credits – PBS Newshour
The bill also makes it for individuals to be gay. The family, friends, and the community are urged to report individuals who are in a same-sex relationship.
The Amnesty International organisation has “vaguely worded”, “ambiguous”, and “appalling”. Amnesty and several other human rights associations have termed the bill to be against basic human rights. Uganda has also invited criticism from the United States, as the Secretary of State Antony Blinken and UK’s Arica Minister Andrew Mitchell have condemned the bill.
“The bill is one of the most extreme anti-LGBTQI+ laws in the world. Human rights are universal. No one should be attacked, imprisoned, or killed simply because of who they are or whom they love,” said White House spokesperson Jean-Pierre.
Credits – The Economic Times
The incident has to light as it has increased the threat to the homosexual community across the globe. Thinkers point out the fact that it increases the probability of discrimination and violence against the LGBTQ community.
