BASHH STATEMENT IN REPSONSE TO UGANDA’S ANTI-LGBTQ+ LAW

The British Association for Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH) wants to express condemnation of the decision made by the Ugandan Parliament to enact an anti-LGBTQ+ law. Signed by Uganda’s President this week, the law introduces the death penalty or life imprisonment sentences for certain same-sex acts.

BASHH is deeply concerned about the impact the Anti-Homosexuality Act 2023 will have on the safety and security of the HIV community and the LGBTQ+ community living in Uganda, as well as their freedom and right to access essential health services.

The implementation of this harmful law jeopardises access to critical HIV services, undermining the positive strides made by Uganda in the fight to end AIDS, which have changed and saved lives. Uganda was on track to meet the UNAIDS HIV treatment targets, with large-scale HIV prevention, diagnosis, treatment and care programs in place. This progress is now under threat.

We urge Ugandan parliamentarians to reconsider their support and enactment of this law. BASHH stands with those expressing grave concern for its implications on human rights and freedom of expression, and supports the efforts of Hon Fox Odoi-Oywelowo and others, who have filed a petition to the Ugandan Attorney General challenging the law.