The enactment of the law has prompted strong reactions from various organizations. The joint statement issued by the U.S.’s PEPFAR, the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, and UNAIDS expressed grave concern about the impact on Uganda’s anti-HIV efforts. Additionally, business coalition Open For Business, which includes companies like Google and Microsoft, expressed deep disappointment, highlighting that the law contradicts Uganda’s economic interests.
International human rights bodies have also voiced their outrage, while LGBTQ activists in Uganda argue that the law will intensify harassment and discrimination against their community. The legislation could potentially inspire lawmakers in neighboring countries, such as Kenya and Tanzania, to pursue similar measures. The inclusion of the death penalty for offenses like transmitting HIV has garnered significant international criticism, with concerns raised about its disproportionate severity.
