Human Rights Watch (HRW) has issued a warning concerning a proposed bill in Uganda that could potentially stifle civil society and limit fundamental rights. The Protection of Sovereignty Bill, introduced on April 15, aims to criminalize activities that promote “the interests of a foreigner against the interests of Uganda.” According to HRW, the bill’s provisions could severely restrict freedom of speech and assembly by prohibiting activities related to government policy and by criminalizing financial support for meetings regarding foreign policy. Violators risk facing up to 20 years in prison, with an undefined process for registering as a foreign agent, which would permit inspections of premises by the Internal Affairs Ministry without a court order (JURIST).
This proposal has drawn parallels to international legislation, notably Russia’s 2012 foreign agents law. Similar laws have been enacted in countries like Georgia, where the “On Transparency of Foreign Influence” law was passed amid protests, along with Kyrgyzstan and El Salvador. A comparable proposal is under consideration in Hungary, reflecting a growing trend of legislative measures that human rights organizations argue threaten dissent and suppress free expression.
The Ugandan bill emerges in the context of heightened political tension following disputed elections. In January, preceding the elections, the Ugandan government implemented an internet shutdown that, according to HRW, undermined fundamental rights and the integrity of the elections. Additionally, incidents involving the arrest of Sarah Bireete, a critic of President Yoweri Museveni, and the use of force against opposition rallies highlight a pattern of governmental actions aimed at curbing opposition voices (Human Rights Watch).
Oryem Nyeko, a senior Africa researcher at HRW, noted that the bill mirrors tactics used by other governments to suppress dissent, labeling such measures as part of a broader strategy to inhibit political and social organizing. This criticism underscores the potential impact on independent media, human rights defenders, and other dissenting voices, raising concerns over the future of civil liberties in Uganda and the potential chilling effects on civil society (The Guardian).
The international community and human rights advocates remain vigilant, emphasizing the need to uphold democratic principles and protect the rights of individuals to freely express and organize without fear of retribution. As Uganda moves forward with this legislative proposal, its ramifications for civil society and political discourse continue to be closely monitored.