Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 April 2023
131. Deputy Colm Brophy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will condemn in the strongest terms Uganda’s recent actions against the LGBT+ community; if the Irish Ambassador to Uganda has expressed Ireland’s condemnation of this abuse of human rights to the Ugandan government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17676/23]
View answerThe Government deeply regrets the passing of an “Anti-Homosexuality Bill” by Uganda’s parliament on 21 March. It would introduce discriminatory measures against Ugandan citizens and violate their fundamental human rights. President Museveni has not so far signed the Bill.
Through the Embassy of Ireland in Kampala, and in cooperation with EU and other like-minded partners, Ireland continues to raise concerns with the Ugandan government relating to the protection of the rights of LGBTI+ people.
The Ambassador of Ireland in Uganda has engaged directly with Ugandan political leaders and conveyed to them Ireland's deep regret at the impact of the passing of this Bill on human rights, on the LGBTI+ community and on Uganda's international reputation. The Ambassador has also engaged with the representatives of local LGBTI+ support groups. Our Embassy in Kampala will continue to engage the Ugandan authorities with the aim of ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, have their human rights promoted and protected, and are treated with dignity and respect. Ireland stands in solidarity with marginalised groups and works closely with civil society groups to promote human rights in Uganda.
Ireland’s engagement in Uganda, including through our international development programme, is based on our international development policy, A Better World, and by the Government’s Strategy for Africa to 2025. We are committed to supporting the work of civil society organisations and human rights defenders on the ground. We recognise clearly the central importance of a human rights-based approach, and support the vital role played by civil society in building peaceful, inclusive and prosperous societies.
The promotion and protection of the rights of LGBTI+ people, who continue to suffer disproportionate levels of violence and face systematic discrimination in many countries, is a foreign policy priority for Ireland. Alongside EU and other partners in Uganda, Ireland will continue to be a strong advocate of LGBTI+ rights.
