World Bank Implements Safeguards to Prevent Discrimination Amid Uganda’s Anti-Gay Law

The World Bank has announced new measures to ensure recipients of its loans in Uganda are not subjected to discrimination under the country’s controversial Anti-Homosexuality Act (AHA). These measures, which include an independent monitoring system, will apply to both ongoing and new projects in Uganda.

The Anti-Homosexuality Act, enacted in May last year, has drawn international condemnation. It imposes life imprisonment for same-sex relations and the death penalty for “aggravated homosexuality.” In response, the World Bank suspended new lending to Uganda, citing the law’s conflict with its values.

As one of Uganda’s largest funders, particularly in infrastructure sectors like roads and energy, the World Bank’s suspension dealt a heavy financial blow to the country. “We will not propose any new public financing for Uganda until we are confident that mitigation measures are in place,” a World Bank spokesperson said.

LGBT activists in Uganda, however, are skeptical of the bank’s new measures. Richard Lusimbo, a leader at Convening for Equality (CFE), an LGBT advocacy group, criticized the steps as a “facade” offering only an illusion of protection. The activists continue to call for the funding ban to remain in place as long as the anti-gay law is in force.