The World Bank has taken a bold stance against Uganda’s controversial anti-gay law by announcing that it will not consider approving new loans for the East African country. The legislation, which was enacted earlier this year, has been widely condemned by rights groups and the international community.
The World Bank’s decision follows an assessment conducted by its team after the anti-gay law was passed in May. The assessment determined that additional measures were needed to ensure that projects funded by the World Bank in Uganda align with the institution’s rigorous environmental and social standards.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the World Bank Group declared, “No new public financing to Uganda will be presented to our Board of Executive Directors until the efficacy of the additional measures has been tested.” These measures, according to the statement, are aimed at safeguarding sexual and gender minorities from discrimination and exclusion in projects financed by the World Bank. Discussions regarding the implementation of these measures are currently ongoing with the Ugandan authorities.
The anti-gay legislation in Uganda is notably severe, prescribing the death penalty for certain homosexual acts. Despite international concerns and pressure to repeal the law, it enjoys significant support within Uganda. Some Ugandan officials have been defiant in the face of concerns that partners like the World Bank might withdraw financial resources over the legislation, asserting that such funding threats are unwarranted.
The World Bank’s statement underscored its enduring commitment to assisting all Ugandans in their efforts to escape poverty, access essential services, and enhance their lives. Despite the suspension of new loans, the institution remains dedicated to its mission of poverty reduction and development in Uganda.
The United Nations Human Rights Office has sharply criticized the Ugandan anti-gay law, describing it as “draconian and discriminatory.” It has raised concerns about the systematic violations of the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals and others that the law may enable. The United States has also warned of potential economic consequences associated with the legislation.
In response to the anti-gay law, activists and some academics in Uganda have initiated legal challenges. However, it remains uncertain when court hearings on the matter will commence.
Homosexuality is criminalized in over 30 of Africa’s 54 countries, reflecting the broader challenges facing LGBTQ+ communities in the region. The World Bank’s decision to suspend new loans to Uganda reflects a commitment to human rights and non-discrimination principles in its development efforts.
The international community will continue to closely monitor developments in Uganda regarding the anti-gay law and its impact on the country’s relationship with international partners like the World Bank.
