Biden Announces US Contemplating Sanctions Against Uganda Following Enactment of Anti-Gay Legislation
In response to Uganda’s passage of an anti-gay bill, Vice President Joe Biden has announced that the United States is considering imposing sanctions on the country.
In a statement dated May 29, President Biden criticized the enactment as a “democratic backsliding” and warned that it could deny Ugandans access to U.S.-provided services.
A portion of the statement reads, “This disgraceful act is the latest in an alarming trend of human rights violations and corruption in Uganda.”
As a result, President Biden stated that he has instructed the appropriate authorities to evaluate all of the implications of the law.
He added that the United States is also contemplating travel restrictions for those who wish to fly into the Western economic hub.
Biden noted, “I have directed my National Security Council to evaluate the implications of this law on all aspects of U.S. engagement with Uganda, including our ability to deliver PEPFAR services and other forms of assistance and investments safely.”
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In addition, my administration will evaluate Uganda’s eligibility for the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) in light of the law’s effects.
“We are also considering additional measures, including the imposition of sanctions and restrictions on entry into the United States against those responsible for grave violations of human rights or corruption,”
Additionally, Biden expressed optimism that the legislation will be reviewed so as not to jeopardize their 60-year partnership with Uganda.
“The United States invests nearly $1 billion annually in Uganda’s people, businesses, institutions, and military to advance our shared goals. “The magnitude of our commitments reflects the importance we place on this partnership and our confidence in the Ugandan people’s ability to build a better future for themselves,” he said.
“I sincerely hope that we can continue to build on this progress and strengthen protections for the human rights of all people around the world.”
The bill, which was signed into law by President Yoweri Museveni on Monday, enjoys broad public support in Uganda but has received severe criticism from the United States, the European Union, and international human rights organizations.
Biden Announces US Contemplating Sanctions Against Uganda Following Enactment of Anti-Gay Legislation
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