We use the law to challenge all forms of discrimination, to promote fairness, respect, and dignity for all individuals, and to build an inclusive society where equality is a reality.
The year when the colonial-era Penal Code Act was enacted. It established the criminal offence of ‘unnatural offence’, which criminalised carnal knowledge of any person against the order of nature. On conviction, a person faces imprisonment for life.
The year when Uganda’s first Anti-Homosexuality Act was enacted by the Parliament of Uganda. The law expanded the criminalisation of sexual relations between persons of the same sex. In August 2014, the Constitutional Court declared the law invalid for lack of quorum.
The year when the new Anti-Homosexuality Act was enacted. It is largely similar to the 2014 Act. The law restricts freedom of speech on sexual minority rights and criminalises ‘promotion of homosexuality’ in broad terms that can criminalise service provision.
Equality is essential for the realisation of universal human rights that affirm all people are born free and equal in dignity and rights. Equality means a guarantee that every individual shall be treated fairly, with respect, and dignity to ensure that they have to access to opportunities and resources for full realisation and development.
Non-discrimination means that no one should be treated unfairly or denied their rights based on characteristics such as race, sex, language, religion, political or other opinion, disability, sexual orientation, or any other status. It ensures equal protection of the law and rights for all.
Protecting equality and non-discrimination is essential to building a just and equitable society where everyone can enjoy their fundamental human rights without fear or prejudice.
Chapter Four defends and supports women human rights defenders (WHRDs) in all our programs to advance equality and non-discrimination. WHRDs face unique and heightened risks because of their gender. They are often targeted with misogynistic attacks, gender-based violence, threats, harassment, and stigma from both state and non-state actors.
Chapter Four is working with partners to challenge forced anal examinations, an invasive and degrading practice that is carried out by the Uganda Police under the guise of collecting “proof” of homosexual conduct. These examinations amount to torture and violate human rights law.
Chapter Four is working with partners to challenge the Anti-Homosexuality Act, 2023, in the Supreme Court of Uganda on the basis that it infringes on several constitutionally protected fundamental rights and freedoms. See our ‘strategic litigation’ section to read more about our legal action.
Chapter Four offers general counsel support to CSOs advocating for the rights of persons with disabilities. We aim to strengthen these organizations’ resilience by empowering them to effectively navigate the complex legal landscape. This enables them to sustain their operations and continue defending and advancing disability rights in Uganda.
In Uganda, equality and non-discrimination remain critical human rights concerns affecting women, persons with disabilities, sexual and gender minorities, and other marginalized groups. These communities face systemic barriers that limit their full access to fundamental rights and participation in society and expose them to various forms of violence and discrimination.
The Anti-Homosexuality Act, 2023, has had a devastating impact on lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) individuals. The law criminalizes same-sex relationships, creating an environment of fear, stigma, and exclusion that undermines fundamental rights and freedoms.
Women human rights defenders (WHRDs) in Uganda face numerous challenges that threaten their safety and effectiveness. They are often targeted in gender-based attacks, fueled by deeply rooted patriarchal norms. WHRDs frequently lack adequate protection and access to justice, making them vulnerable to physical and emotional harm. Online harassment and digital threats further limit their ability to advocate freely in new media platforms. Additionally, their organizations often suffer from insufficient financial resources and restrictive legal environments.
Persons with disabilities, indigenous communities, and other vulnerable groups continue to face structural inequalities, societal stigma, and exclusionary policies that prevent them from fully exercising their rights.
This climate of discrimination is exacerbated by restrictive laws and institutional barriers that undermine public participation and calls for equality. The lack of effective legal protection and support mechanisms leaves many without recourse, further entrenching inequality.
