Ugandan lawmakers have approved a new version of the Anti-Homosexuality Bill, which targets members of the LGBTQ+ community. The previous version of the bill proposed the death penalty for those found guilty of homosexuality, which sparked international outrage. Although the latest version of the bill still includes harsh penalties such as life imprisonment, it has been modified to clarify that no one will be arrested unless they engage in homosexual activity.
The revised bill, which was approved by parliament in the capital city of Kampala, removes the provisions that sought to punish people who merely identify as LGBTQ+. President Yoweri Museveni, who is known for his critical stance towards the LGBTQ+ community, sent the bill back to parliament for further consideration, including the possibility of granting amnesty in certain cases. The president's approval is required for the bill to become law.
Homosexuality is already illegal in Uganda, but the new legislation seeks to impose even tougher sanctions due to increased reports of homosexual activity. The bill lists violations it describes as "aggravated homosexuality," such as engaging in same-sex intercourse with individuals under the age of 18 or with an HIV-positive partner. These violations carry the harshest punishments.
Uganda is not the only country where LGBTQ+ rights are under threat. In India, the government has opposed recognition of same-sex marriages, and Ghanaian lawmakers are considering punitive legislation against gay people. In Kenya, President William Ruto has criticized a pro-LGBTQ+ ruling by the nation's top court. The LGBTQ+ community continues to face discrimination and persecution in many parts of the world, highlighting the ongoing need for advocacy and support for their rights.