Statement on Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Act

May 29, 2023 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada

The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:

“Canada is deeply concerned by Uganda’s assent of the 2023 Anti-Homosexuality Act and firmly condemns its legislation. This Act is a blatant violation of the human rights and fundamental freedoms of LGBTQ+ Ugandans. It exposes them to systematic persecution, oppression, violence, including the possibility of life terms in prison and the death penalty.

“The reversal of human rights that this law represents is deeply concerning and we are disturbed by the heinous forms of violence it legalizes against a segment of Uganda’s population, only because of who they are and who they love. Canada unequivocally opposes the use of the death penalty in all cases, everywhere. This form of punishment is incompatible with international human rights laws and human dignity.

“Canada stands with the LGBTQ+ community in Uganda and around the world and calls on the Government of Uganda to revoke this law. We are committed to working with partners in the region that have experience supporting communities in situation of vulnerability and persecution.”