Source: CIA World Factbook.

International and Regional Human Rights Agreements

* Category includes ratification, accession, or succession to the treaty

Constitutional Framework

The Constitution of Uganda was promulgated in 1995.  Relevant provisions include the following:

Article 29. Protection of freedom of conscience, expression, movement, religion, assembly and association.
1. Every person shall have the right to—
(d) freedom to assemble and to demonstrate together with others peacefully and unarmed and to petition; and
(e) freedom of association which shall include the freedom to form
and join associations or unions, including trade unions and
political and other civic organisations.

Article 38. Civic rights and activities.
1. In the enjoyment of the rights and freedoms prescribed in this Chapter, no person shall prejudice the fundamental or other human rights and freedoms of others or the public interest.
2. Every Ugandan citizen has a right to participate in peaceful activities to influence policies of government through civic organizations.

Article 43. General limitation on fundamental and other human rights and freedoms.
1. In the enjoyment of the rights and freedoms prescribed in this Chapter, no person shall prejudice the fundamental or other human rights and freedoms of others or the public interest.
2. Public interest under this article shall not permit –

1. political persecution;
2. detention without trial;
3. any limitation of the enjoyment of the rights and freedoms prescribed by this Chapter beyond what is acceptable and demonstrably justifiable in a free and democratic society, or what is provided in the Constitution.

Article 50. Enforcement of rights and freedoms by courts.
1. Any person who claims that a fundamental or other right or freedom guaranteed under this Constitution has been infringed or threatened, is entitled to apply to a competent court for redress which may include compensation.
2. Any person or organisation may bring an action against the violation of another person’s or group’s human rights.
3. Any person aggrieved by any decision of the court may appeal to the appropriate court.
4. Parliament shall make laws for the enforcement of the rights and freedoms under this Chapter.

Article 51. Uganda Human Rights Commission.
1. There shall be a Commission called the Uganda Human Rights Commission.
2. The Commission shall be composed of a Chairperson and not less than three other persons appointed by the President with the approval of Parliament.
3. The Chairperson of the Commission shall be a Judge of the High Court or a person qualified to hold that office.
4. The Chairperson and members of the commission shall be persons of high moral character and proven integrity and shall serve for a period of six years and be eligible for re-appointment.

Ugandan law also contains “directive principles”, which are non-binding provisions relevant to constitutional interpretation:

• Directive principle II (vi) provides that Civic Organizations shall retain their autonomy in pursuit of their declared objectives.
• Directive principle V (i) provides that “the state shall guarantee and respect institutions which are charged by the state with responsibility for protecting and promoting human rights by providing them with adequate resources to function effectively.”
• Directive principle V (ii) states that “The state shall guarantee and respect the independence of nongovernmental organizations which protect and promote human rights.”

On December 20, 2017, Parliament passed the Constitutional (Amendment) Act, 2017. The Act removed the Presidential age limit of 75 years provided for under Article 102 (b) of the Constitution, increased the term of Parliament and Local Government Councils from five to seven years, and restored presidential term limits. While upholding the removal of the presidential age limit, the Constitutional Court nullified the provisions seeking to extend the term of Parliament and Local Governments to seven years as well as the restoration of presidential term limits. The Supreme Court has since upheld the Constitutional Court’s position.

National Laws and Regulations Affecting Sector

Relevant national laws include the following:

• Constitution of the Republic of Uganda (as amended), 1995.
• Constitutional (Amendment) Act, 2006.
• The Anti- Money (Laundering) Act, 2013
• Constitution (Amendment) Act, 2017.
• The Non-Governmental Organizations Act, 2016.
• The Non-Governmental Organizations, Regulations, 2017.
• The Non-Governmental Organizations (Fees), Regulations, 2017
• The Companies Act (2012).
• The Human Rights (Enforcement) Act, 2019
• The Trustees Incorporation Act, Chapter 165 (1939).
• Income Tax Act, Chapter 340 (1997).
• Value Added Tax Act, Chapter 349 (1997).
• The Value Added Tax (Amendment) Act (2005).
• East African Community Customs Management (EACC) Act (2004).
• Public Order Management Act (2013).
• Anti-Homosexuality Bill (2023).
• The Non-Governmental Organizations (Amendment) Act, 2024.
• The Non-Governmental Organizations (Amendment) Act, 2024 (Commencement) Instrument, 2024.
• The Local Government Rating Act, 2005.

Pending NGO Legislative / Regulatory Initiatives

1. On May 13, 2025, the Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Jacob Oboth Oboth, tabled the controversial Uganda People’s Defence Forces (Amendment) Bill 2025 on the floor of parliament for the first reading. Clause 30 of the Bill introduces Section 117A, which expands military jurisdiction to include trial of civilians involved in ‘exceptional circumstances’ in military courts. The bill confers jurisdiction onto military courts to try civilians, which sharply contradicts with the Supreme Court ruling in the case of Attorney General vs. Michael Kabaziguruka that outlawed trial of civilians in military courts.

2. On May 20, 2025, the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) Amendment Bill, 2025 was passed. The Bill provides powers to military courts to try civilians who commit criminal offences using weapons that are a preserve of the UPDF. The highly contested Bill is inconsistent with Article 92 of the Uganda Constitution (as amended) 1995, which provides that “parliament shall not pass any law or alter the decision or judgment of any court as between the parties to the decision or judgment.” The Bill awaits the President to assent to it.

3. In a move to constrain civic and political space, a motion to introduce the The Political Parties and Organizations (Amendment) Bill, 2025 was tabled by Hon. Nakut Faith on May 13, 2025. The Bill seeks to amend Section 14 of the Political Parties and Organizations Act, Cap 178 such that the Government will only provide funds or other public resources to a political party or organization which is a member of the National Consultative Forum. Under the Bill, Section 20 of the Political Parties and Organizations Act is also amended to provide for the National Consultative Forum to comprise of two organs: the Inter-Party Organization for Dialogue (IPOD) and the Forum for Non-Represented Political Parties and Political Organizations. The Bill makes it mandatory for all political parties and organizations to belong to the National Consultative Forum to access any funds or public resources provided for under the Act. Both Bills were hurriedly passed on May 20, 2025 and await Presidential assent.

Organizational Forms

Ugandan law provides for the establishment of a variety of civil society organizations (CSOs).

Non-governmental Organizations (NGOs)

NGOs are governed by the NGO Act, 2015 and the NGO (Amendment) Act, 2024. The NGO Act, 2015 defines an NGO as “a private voluntary grouping of individuals or associations established to provide voluntary services to the community or any part, but not for profit or commercial purposes.”

Trusts and Foundations

Trusts are governed by the Trustees Act, Cap. 164, 1954, and the Trustees Incorporation Act, Cap. 165, 1939. Foundations may register either under the Trustee’s Incorporation Act or as companies limited by guarantee under the Companies Act, Cap. 110, 1961. Both trusts and foundations are established to provide grants and in some cases affordable loan financing to NGOs, community-based organizations (CBOs), and private organizations in support of their goals and objectives.

Community-based Organizations (CBOs)

CBOs are predominantly self-help groups focused on improving individual or household welfare. While most CBOs operate on a small scale—typically involving 10 to 20 households and covering a limited geographic area—a few play a wider role in community development. Many are organized along communal work lines, for example, to  work collectively on members’ farms or support funeral ceremony preparations. CBOs with larger community development roles are supported and sometimes initiated by organizations outside the community.

The NGO Act, 2015 defines a CBO as “an organisation operating at a subcounty level and below whose objectives is to promote and advance the wellbeing of the members of the community” (Section 3).

Public Benefit Status

According to Section 4(d) of the NGO Act, 2024, one of the Act’s objectives is to “provide the development of strong organizations and to facilitate the formation and effective function of organisations for public benefit purposes.”

However, registration as an NGO does not automatically confer tax exemption. Under the Income Tax Act, only organizations, institutions, or irrevocable trusts that qualify as religious, charitable, or educational institutions of a public character, and that have obtained a written ruling from the Commissioner recognizing them as an “exempt organization,” are eligible for tax exemption (Income Tax Act, Section 2(bb)).

Charitable organizations established under the Companies Act do not benefit from any tax exemptions.

Public Participation

The Ugandan Constitution, 1995, enshrines several principles related to public participation:

• “The State shall be based on democratic principles which empower and encourage the active participation of all citizens at all levels in their own governance.” (Democratic Principle (I))
• “Every Ugandan Citizen has the right to participate in the affairs of government individually or through his or her representatives in accordance with the law.” (Article 38(1))
• Every Ugandan has a “right to participate in peaceful activities to influence the policies of government through civic.” (Article 38(2))
• “Every citizen has a right of access to information in the possession of the State or any other organ or agency of the State except where the release of the information is likely to prejudice the security or sovereignty of the State or interfere with the right to the privacy of any other person.” (Article 41)

National legislation and policy seek to operationalize these constitutional protections:

• The Access to Information Act, 2005, affirms the right of every citizen to access information held by the State or any public body, except where disclosure would prejudice state security or sovereignty (Section 5(1)). It also requires that such information be kept as up to date as practicable (Section 5(2)).
• The Local Government Act, 1997, envisions decentralization as a fundamental principle to promote citizen participation in decision making (Article 176(2)(b)). The Decentralization Policy, 1997, envisions citizen participation through local councils that include special interest groups such as women, youth, the elderly, and persons with disabilities. It also promotes direct citizen engagement through village meetings, local council meetings, budget conferences, or information fora (barazas), and local government consultations with citizens and CSOs on policy issues.

Judicial interpretations have further affirmed and expanded the right to public participation:

• In James Rwanyarare and Others vs. Attorney General (Constitutional Petition No. 7, 2002), the court held that the right to public participation extends to non-state entities, including associations and political parties.
• In Satya vs. Attorney General (Constitutional Petition No. 0036, 2012), the court recognized the right of public participation for individuals.
• In Saleh Kamba vs. Attorney General (Constitutional Petition No. 38, 2012), the court held that the purpose of the right to public participation is to ensure accountability and transparency in all government organs.

Parliamentary procedure also incorporates public participation. Following the first reading of a bill, the relevant parliamentary committee is required to invite other stakeholders to present their views on the bill through public hearings (Rules of Procedure of the Parliament, Rule 114).

Public awareness of these participation mechanisms and opportunities remains limited, although state institutions are mandated to increase such awareness:

• The Uganda Human Rights Commission must “formulate, implement and oversee programs intended to inculcate in the citizens of Uganda awareness of their civic responsibilities and an appreciation of their rights and obligations as free people” (Constitution, 1995, Article 52(1)(g)).
• The Judicial Service Commission is mandated to “prepare and implement programs for the education of, and for the dissemination of information to, judicial officers and the public about the law and the administration of justice” (Constitution, 1995, Article 147(c)).

Participation rights for marginalized and vulnerable groups are addressed in several laws:

• The Constitution provides for affirmative action on the basis of gender, age, disability, or any other reason created by history, tradition, or custom in favor of marginalized groups “for the purpose of redressing imbalances which exist against them” (Article 32 (1)).
• The Constitution provides that minorities have the right to participate in decision-making processes (Article 36).
• The Persons with Disability Act, 2006, provides for the participation of persons with disabilities in all aspects of life as equal citizens of Uganda (Sections 3(b) and (f)).

• The Local Government Act, 1997, provides for the participation of marginalized groups, such as persons with disabilities, youth, and women, in local project planning, budgeting, and monitoring (Section 10).

The Human Rights Enforcement Act entrenches the right to bring lawsuits against any law or professional practice that restricts civic participation (Articles 3 and 6). The Whistle Blowers Act, 2010, protects the right of individuals to disclose, in the public interest, information that relates to irregular, illegal, or corrupt practices.

Despite these progressive legal provisions, there are barriers to participation:

• Citizens face routine harassment for actions in the public interest that involve public protests. Under the Public Order Management Act (POMA), 2013, public meetings—including gatherings, assemblies, processions, or demonstrations in a public place—require prior authorization (Section 8). The law has been used to disperse protests and harass and arrest political party activists, students, journalists, environmental activists, and human rights defenders. In Human Rights Network (U) and Others vs. Attorney General, the Constitutional Court nullified Section 8 of POMA, which had outlawed public meetings without police permission. During Covid, public meetings were again restricted, with police dispersing several gatherings.
• Perhaps the most notable exclusion from participation is the LGBTI+ community. The Constitution (Article 31(2a)) prohibits same-sex marriage, and the Penal Code (Cap. 120, Section 145) further prohibits same-sex relations. In May 2023, the Anti-Homosexuality Act was enacted, further limiting the participation and rights of LGBTI+ individuals (see below for details).

Barriers to Formation

Mandatory Registration

Section 29(1) of the NGO Act, 2015 requires all NGOs, including all “private voluntary groupings of individuals,” to formally register with the National Bureau of NGOs. This requirement also extends to community-based organizations (CBOs) and self-regulatory bodies (SRBs).

Sections 20 and 21 of the NGO Act, 2015 establish District NGO Monitoring Committees (DNMCs) and Sub-county NGO Monitoring Committees (SNMCs). Among other functions, DNMCs are tasked with reviewing CBO registration applications, while SNMCs recommend CBOs to the DNMC for registration.

Section 40 prescribes penalties for carrying out activities through unregistered organizations.

Burdensome Registration Procedures

NGOs seeking registration must submit detailed applications to the National Bureau for NGOs, including information on their operations, intended area of work, staffing, geographical focus, headquarters location, and the expiration date of any previous permit.

Section 4 of the NGO Regulations, 2017 imposes burdensome documentation requirements on NGOs seeking to register with the National Bureau of NGOs, including:

• A certified copy of the certificate of incorporation
• A copy of the organization’s constitution
• A governance structure chart
• Proof of payment of the prescribed fee
• Information on sources of funding
• Copies of a valid identification document for at least two founding members
• Minutes and resolutions of members authorizing the organization to register
• A statement of compliance with Section 45 of the NGO Act (staffing requirements)
• A recommendation from the responsible ministry or government department or agency or, for CBOs, a recommendation of the DNMC. For foreign organizations, a recommendation is required from the diplomatic mission in Uganda of the organization’s country of origin.

On July 15, 2024, the President signed the Non-Governmental Organizations (NGO) Act, 2024 into law. The Act dissolved the NGO Bureau, transferring its functions to the Ministry of Internal Affairs. This structural change raises concerns about resource constraints and institutional independence, as the new Department for NGOs will now rely entirely on the Ministry for its budget. This dependency risks undermining the Department’s capacity to effectively register and monitor NGO activities.

Re-registration Requirement

To renew a permit, NGOs must meet the documentation requirements outlined in Section 12 of the NGO Regulations, 2017. These include:

• A copy of audited accounts
• A copy of the organization’s annual report
• Minutes from the annual general assembly or governing body
• A work plan and budget or strategic plan
• Proof of payment of prescribed fees

Marginalized Groups

Section 30(1)(a) of NGO Act, 2015 prohibits registration of any organization whose objectives contravene the laws of Uganda, as outlined in its constitution. Section 31 further  allows the government to deny registration to organizations advocating for legal reforms, a provision frequently used to deny registration to groups advocating for LGBTI+ rights, given that homosexuality is considered illegal in Uganda. However, it is worth noting that recent court rulings in Botswana and Kenya have reaffirmed that freedom of association includes the rights of LGBTI+ people to form organizations, setting important regional precedents.

Barriers to Operations

Staffing Requirements

The NGO Act does not allow organizations to employ foreign staff on a permanent basis. Section 45 of the NGO Act, 2015 mandates that NGOs submit to the National Bureau for NGOs a staffing and organizational chart, its foreign work requirements, requirements for Ugandan counterparts of foreign employees, planned period to replace foreign employees with qualified Ugandans, and compliance with Ugandan labor laws. In addition, foreign employees must submit “certificates, credentials and recommendations” demonstrating their academic and professional qualifications and work experience to the Ugandan diplomatic mission in their country of origin before entering Uganda.

On November 23, 2020, the Government of Uganda deported two foreign citizens engaged in not-for-profit, election-related work on accusations of supporting regime change. It also denied entry to foreign citizens working with international NGOs, including the Democratic Governance Facility (DGF), National Democratic Institute (NDI), and International Republican Institute (IRI).

Permissions

Beyond registration, Section 31(5)-(6) of the NGO Act, 2015 requires NGOs to obtain an operating permit from the National Bureau for NGOs. Permits are valid for an unspecified period of time “not exceeding five years” and require payment of an unspecified annual fee.

Special Obligations

Section 44 of the NGO Act, 2015 imposes several  “special obligations” on registered organizations. These include cooperation with local councils and monitoring committees; a prohibition from engaging in acts that are prejudicial to the security and laws of Uganda or “the interests of Uganda and the dignity of the people of Uganda”; and a requirement to remain nonpartisan.

On July 5, 2024, the Attorney General issued an Advisory on Memoranda of Understanding between Government and Commercial Entities, Regulatory Bodies, Ministries and Agencies of Government, including NGOs and CBOs. The Advisory cited Article 119 (5) of the Uganda Constitution, 1995 (as amended), which states that no agreement, contract, treaty, convention, or document to which the government is a party or in respect of which the government has an interest, shall be concluded without legal advice from the Attorney General. Accordingly, any Ministry, Department, or Local Government (MDA/LG) entering a memorandum of understanding with an NGO or a CBO must indicate:

• the mandate of the MDA/LG to which the MOU relates;
• whether the MDA/LG has signed a similar MOU with any other NGO or CBO, and if so, why it is necessary to enter into another MOU with another NGO or CBO;
• the benefits to be derived from entering into the MOU; and
• the track record of the NGO or CBO.

This new process raises concerns about increased bureaucracy and potential restrictions on NGO-government cooperation in areas like democracy, rule of law, and human rights.

Inspections and Monitoring

Section 27 of the NGO Act, 2015 allows the Auditor General to conduct involuntary inspections and request “any information” that appears “necessary for purposes of giving effect to this Act.”

Sections 20 and 21 create two additional layers of governmental oversight at the sub-national level: District Non-Governmental Organisations Monitoring Committees (DNMCs) and Sub-county Non-Governmental Organisations Monitoring Committees (SNMCs). Among other functions, these committees are tasked with monitoring NGO activities and reporting to the NGO Bureau.

Several instances of invasive monitoring have taken place in recent years:

• In February 2019, the Ugandan Police issued a circular requiring NGOs to provide detailed information about their organization and operations, including  the organization’s name, location, date of establishment, contact details, names of directors, certificate of incorporation, constitution, certificate of operation, services provided, list of employees, list of projects funded, and monthly/annual returns.
• In August 2019, the Financial Intelligence Authority (FIA) requested that banks provide information from the past three years on certain transactions involving the accounts of 13 human rights organizations operating in Uganda.
• In 2021, the National Bureau of NGOs summoned the Citizens Coalition for Electoral Democracy in Uganda (CCEDU) over its report on the 2021 General Elections.

Criminal Penalties

Section 40 of the NGO Act, 2015 provides for imprisonment for any individual who “fails or refuses to produce to the Bureau a certificate, permit, constitution, charter or other relevant document or information relevant for the purposes of this Act.”

Suspension

Ugandan authorities have frequently suspended NGO operations on various grounds:

• In July 2018, the Uganda Electoral Commission suspended the Citizens Coalition for Electoral Democracy’s (CCEDU’s) accreditation for election-related activities on the grounds that CCEDU was partisan and failed to adhere to the Election Commission’s legal framework and guidelines. The suspension was lifted in February 2019 after prolonged advocacy.
• In September 2020, the Ugandan government reported that it had suspended the operations of 208 refugee organizations, including 85 international groups, for non-compliance with regulations, leaving only 69 authorized agencies to serve the 1.4 million refugees in the country. According to the Minister for Relief, Disaster Preparedness, and Refugees, the organizations that were suspended lacked valid permits, possessed expired permits to operate, or were running unauthorized projects.
• In June 2021, the National Bureau of NGOs suspended six NGOs for fraud, forgery, and incompetence.
• In August 2021, the NGO Bureau announced the suspension of 54 NGOs for various non-compliance failures, including 23 that had operated with expired permits; 15 that had failed to file annual returns and audited books of accounts; and 16 that had operated without registration. The suspended NGOs included Chapter Four Uganda, CCEDU, Citizens Election Watch-IT, Center for Conflict Resolution (CECORE), and Great Lakes Institute for Strategic Studies (GLISS).In a positive development, however, some of the NGOs were able to get these decisions overturned. In May 2022, High Court Judge Musa Ssekaana ruled that the decision to suspend the operations of Chapter Four Uganda was  “irregular” because of its indefinite nature. Ssekaana ordered the NGO Bureau to hear the applicant’s claim within one month. Of 54 NGOs that were suspended in August 2021, 22 have had their suspension lifted, and two NGOs whose accounts had been frozen have since had their accounts reopened.

• In January 2021, President Museveni ordered the immediate suspension of the activities of the Democratic Governance Facility (DGF)—the largest donor fund for NGOs in Uganda—alleging that it was subverting government activities. The DGF is financed by the governments of Denmark, Ireland, Austria, Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, and the European Union and aims to ensure equitable growth, poverty eradication, rule of law, and long-term stability in Uganda. The suspension crippled many NGOs and government bodies that engage in accountability, good governance, human rights, democracy, service delivery monitoring, and capacity building activities. President Museveni lifted the ban on DGF in June 2022 on the condition that government representatives sit on DGF’s decision-making structures.

Barriers to International Contact

The Constitution of Uganda (Article 29) protects freedom of association, confirming that NGOs may contact and cooperate with colleagues in civil society, business, and government both within and outside the country. It also guarantees the right to free movement in and outside Uganda. No legal provisions require advance notice of international cooperation, prohibit conferences, or restrict travel.

In February 2023, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs notified the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) that its host country agreement would not be renewed upon its expiry in August 2023, effectively ending OHCHR’s mandate in Uganda.

Barriers to Expression

Article 29 of the Constitution guarantees every person the right to freedom of speech and expression. Article 38 (2) further allows NGOs to participate in peaceful activities aimed at influencing government policies.

While NGOs are prohibited from engaging in political activities or belong to any political group, they are permitted to participate in election processes though election monitoring, voter education, and proposing reforms to improve the electoral system.

The Press and Journalist Act, 1995 seeks to ensure freedom of the press and established the Media Council, which is mandated to regulate journalistic conduct, promote ethical standards, discipline journalists, and arbitrate disputes between the state and the media.

In the past fifteen years, however, the government has increasingly constrained the legal and practical space for expression and advocacy. Notable developments include:

• In 2009, the Ugandan Parliament enacted the Regulation of Interception of Communication Bill, which allows the government to intercept any postal, telephone, email, and text message communications with the consent of a judge of the High Court.
• In 2012, the Parliament passed the Communication Regulatory Act, 2012, which empowers the Uganda Communication Authority to create a committee to examine complaints raised by consumers or the government against content providers. Though concerns were raised about potential misuse, the committee has not been created yet and the Act is rarely invoked.
• In 2014, the government released stringent regulations that require all media houses to allocate prime time to promoting government programs and penalizes moderators for tolerating provocative and anti-government questions from callers.

In the lead-up to the January 2021 elections, state agencies took further measures to constrain the freedom of expression.

• On September 7, 2020, the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) ordered all persons engaged in the provision of online news sites to obtain authorization from the UCC by October 5, 2020, or their websites would be blocked.
• On October 29, 2020, the National Bureau for NGOs announced that National Election Watch-Uganda (NEW-U), a loose coalition of 65 NGOs formed to observe the 2021 general elections, was an illegal organization and directed its activities to stop.
• On December 10, 2020, the Media Council demanded that both local and foreign journalists covering the general elections must be accredited. On January 18, 2021, the High Court ruled that the Media Council’s directive was illegal, irrational, and procedurally irregular, and accordingly issued a permanent injunction.
• On January 13, 2021, the government implemented a nationwide internet shutdown, just a day before the general elections. The shutdown continued until January 18, 2021, adversely affecting patients’ access to medical care, disrupting businesses and the banking and telecom sectors, and reducing access to information on social media during the elections.

Since the January 14, 2021 elections, cases of enforced disappearances and arbitrary arrests have risen. Numerous opposition activists were abducted, with families unable to trace their relatives. Unconfirmed reports indicate that over 243 supporters of the National Unity Party (NUP) were missing as of March 2021. Government security forces acknowledged detaining 177 of them; the fate of the others remained unclear, although they were believed to be detained illegally by security forces. President Museveni admitted to the illegal detentions, but claimed that the detained had been misled by criminal groups to engage in treasonous acts.

NGOs and activists continued to have their freedom of expression restricted in 2022:

• On October 22, 2021, police arrested six staff members of the Africa Institute for Energy Governance (AFIEGO), reportedly on the orders of the NGO Bureau, for operating without a permit.
• On January, 12, 2022, the satirical novelist Kakwenza Rukirabashaija was charged with two counts of offensive communication against President Museveni and his son Rukirabashaija denied the charges. He was denied travel for medical treatment and later fled into exile.
• On March 16, 2022, police arrested Tumuhimbise Norman, CEO of Alternative Digitalk Online Television, and charged him with cyber-stalking under Section 26 of the Computer Misuse Act, 2011 for repeated dissemination of offensive content about the President.

• In March 2022, Attorney General Kiryowa-Kiwanuka declared NGOs “enemies” of Uganda. He further asserted that NGOs were a threat to the country’s stability and warned NGOs not to dictate to the government the rules and guidelines within which they should operate.

These trends persisted throughout 2024 and 2025.

• Two staff members of Students for Global Democracy, a student-led organization promoting good governance and sustainability, were arrested during anti-corruption protests in March 2024.
• In July 2024, a group of youth activists protesting parliamentary corruption were arrested in violation of their rights under Article 29(1)(d) of the Uganda Constitution.
• In December 2024, several Tik Tok users were arrested and imprisoned over alleged political hate speech targeting the First Family and close associates.

Restrictions on LGBTI+ Advocacy

On March 30, 2023, the Anti-Homosexuality Act, 2023 came into effect. Framed as legislation to protect the “traditional family,” the Act criminalizes homosexuality and its promotion and financing in Uganda. It prescribes life imprisonment for sex between two people of the same biological sex and the death penalty for “aggravated homosexuality.” The Act restricts freedom of speech and advocacy on LGBTI+ issues, and has been used to accuse NGOs, donors, and foreign companies of promoting and recruiting people in schools and institutions of higher learning into homosexuality.

In response to constitutional challenges, the Constitutional Court of Uganda upheld most provisions of the Act in April 2024. However, it struck down clauses that criminalized the rental of premises for “homosexual purposes” and the failure to report certain homosexual activities to the police.

Barriers to Resources

NGOs in Uganda face increasing restrictions to their access to resources, many of which are linked with counter-terrorism and anti-money laundering measures.

Following the release of the 2021 US State Department Human Rights Report, the Ugandan government dismissed as a “falsehood” the claim that NGOs were mistreated in Uganda, affirming the state’s recognition of NGOs’ role in democracy and societal development. However, the government reiterated concerns that NGOs could be conduits for terrorism financing and money laundering, thereby justifying increased scrutiny and monitoring.

In December 2020, for example, the Financial Intelligence Authority (FIA) froze the accounts of the National NGO Forum and Uganda Women’s Network (UWONET), accusing them of maintaining links with opposition parties and engaging in terrorist financing in violation of Section 17A (2) of the Anti-Terrorism (Amendment) Act, 2015. However, in September 2022, the High Court in Kampala ruled that the FIA’s actions were illegal, declaring the account free null and void.

Also in December 2020, Nicholas Opiyo, a human rights lawyer and executive director of Chapter Four Uganda, was arrested on charges of money laundering and related malicious acts. Authorities accused him of failing to declare the receipt of USD 340,000, in violation of 116 and 136(1) (a) of Sections 3 (c) of the Anti-Money Laundering Act (2017).

Further restrictions were introduced through a policy statement issued by the Minister of Finance on September 6, 2021, which requires all development assistance—including funding for NGOs and private sector actors—to receive prior approval by the Cabinet. The directive, justified under the Paris Principles on Aid Effectiveness, also requires that all such assistance be signed off by the Minister of Finance. A detailed Development Cooperation Policy will be issued after consultation with Cabinet.

Barriers to Assembly

The right to peaceful assembly and demonstration is enshrined in the Ugandan Constitution. The 2013 Public Order Management Act is the primary legislation governing assemblies in Uganda. The law includes several restrictive provisions that have significantly curtailed civic space and the exercise of freedom of assembly.

Time, Place and Manner Restrictions. Section 5(2)(c) of POMA restricts public meetings (except town hall meetings) to the hours of 7:00am to 7:00pm. Sections 12 and 13, along with Schedule 3, designate specific areas—including the Parliament building, international airports, the State House (the President’s official resident in Kampala), State Lodges throughout the country, and courts—as restricted.

Grounds for Refusal of Permission and Dispersal. Section 6(1) permits the government to deny permission to hold a proposed public meeting if prior notice for a meeting at the same time and place has already been received or the venue is deemed unsuitable for crowd and traffic control or will interfere with other lawful activities. Under Section 6(3), once notified of such a denial, organizers must not proceed with the meeting as planned.

Section 7(2) authorizes the dispersal of spontaneous gatherings for similar reasons. Section 8 authorizes the responsible officer to stop or prevent any public meeting held in violation of the Act or to disperse meetings where “reasonable in the circumstances.”

In January 2020, District and Division Police Commanders were directed to disband all political meetings in private homes, citing violations of POMA. Authorities alleged that politicians were holding unauthorized political meetings in their homes or those of their allies. Civil society activists view the ban as a biased interpretation of POMA aimed at suppressing political opposition.

Requirements on Organizers and Participants. The Act imposes several burdensome requirements on the organizers and participants of a public meeting. Section 10 requires organizers to provide sufficient stewards proportionate to the number of participants; ensure that meetings end peacefully before 7:00 p.m.; and cooperate and coordinate with police to ensure that all participants are unarmed and peaceful and that peace and order are maintained. Participants are required to act in a manner that avoids obstruction of traffic, confusion, and disorder. Failure to comply with these requirements can result in criminal prosecution and liability.

Excessive Force. On February 12, 2025, Ssuuna James, a cyber-activist and Executive Director of Freedom Hive Uganda, was arrested and charged with “common nuisance” under Section 148(1) Cap. 128 of the Penal Code. His arrest followed a peaceful protest held on February 10, 2025, at Constitutional Square in Kampala, where demonstrators called on the government to comply with a Supreme Court ruling directing the transfer of civilians from military to civilian courts. During the arrest, more than five uniformed and plain-clothed police officers violently dragged Ssuuna to the ground, causing him physical injuries.

While we aim to maintain information that is as current as possible, we realize that situations can rapidly change.  If you are aware of any additional information or inaccuracies on this page, please keep us informed; write to ICNL at ngomonitor@icnl.org.

Key Events

Uganda underwent the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) for the third time before the UN’s UPR Working Group on January 27, 2022. Among the recommendations made by UN Member States was for Uganda to respect and uphold freedom of expression, association and assembly, to protect human rights defenders, civil society, and journalists, and to end harassment of human rights defenders and political opponents. In response to the recommendations, the Ugandan government stated that the enforcement of COVID-19 regulations affected the enjoyment of some rights; NGOs are required to align their activities to the priorities of government; some NGOs were found to be involved in unlawful activities with respect to the Financial Intelligence Authority and their accounts were frozen; and the government would follow the guidance of the courts on issues of NGO closures.

General News

Government probes 13 NGOs over money laundering (August 2019)

Voter education is crucial as 2021 elections approach (March 2019)

Government Moves To De-Register 7,000 Dormant NGOs (September 2018)

Popular Ugandan opposition MP Bobi Wine charged with treason (August 2018)

NGOs told to declare sources of funding (April 2018)

Uganda’s fever spikes over age limit bid (September 2017)

Uganda’s Deteriorating Human Rights Record up for Review (November 2016)

Bill Threatens Rights Groups (April 2015)

Uganda Anti-gay Law Struck Down by Court (August 2014)

Government issues statement on Anti-Homosexuality Act (July 2014)

Government to Track NGO Cash (May 2014)

Uganda’s LGBTI community needs the UN now more than ever (May 2014

Analysis of ‘Anti-gay Law’ in Uganda (March 2014)

Students Protest the Public Order Management Bill (August 2013)

Public Order Management Bill passed (August 2013)

Uganda charges opposition figure over rallies (July 2013)

Halt Crackdown on Media Houses in Kampala (May 2013)

Civil Society Calls for Tougher Laws On Small Arms Trade (January 2013)

CSOs fault Museveni on corruption (December 2012)

OPM scandal hurts civil society (November 2012)

Civil society advocacy in Uganda: Lessons learned (November 2012)

On 50th anniversary of independence, civil society under pressure (November 2012)

Curtailing criticism: Intimidation and obstruction of civil society in Uganda (August 2012)

Government harms and criminalizes the legal activities of a Women’s Human Rights NGO (July 2012)

NGOs tell government: You can ban us, but not the issues (July 2012)

“Illegal” LGBT rights workshop raided by Minister of Ethics and Integrity (February 2012)

Government-backed harassment and repression of critics increasing (October 2011)

Media and civil society organisations under threat – report (June 2011)

Government wants public order bill passed (May 2011)

Museveni’s swearing in amid crackdown on the opposition and human rights violations (May 2011)

Do Ugandans have the right to walk? (April 2011)

Journalists attacked during elections in Uganda (February 2011)

Uganda gay rights activist David Kato killed (January 2011)