Advance questions and statement to Uganda

Advance questions:

1. Will Uganda take steps to implement the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, particularly with regards to the oil industry?
2. We note that Uganda in 2011 accepted recommendations to amend or reform legislation to combat discrimination of women. What does the Government do to enact the Marriage and Divorce Bill and other legislation to strengthen the status of women during the current parliament?
3. Since the passing of the Public Order Management Act (POMA), there have been documented several instances, particularly during the 2016 election campaign, of limitations on freedom of assembly, beyond the limited circumstances envisaged in the law. What measures will the government take to ensure that POMA is implemented in conformity with Uganda’s constitution and human rights obligations?
4. Human Rights Defenders and independent media play a crucial role in fostering a culture of human rights and democracy. In recent years, HRDs in Uganda have experienced office break-ins and thefts and destruction of property. What steps will Uganda take to ensure protection of individuals and organizations working to defend Human Rights?

Statement:

Norway welcomes the report of the delegation from Uganda.

We would like to acknowledge the positive engagement and cooperation shown by the Government with the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights’ country office and Uganda’s commendable efforts to welcome an unprecedented number of refugees while respecting their human rights.

During the campaign period leading up to Uganda’s national elections in February 2016 and in the process of the election itself, several independent observers made similar reports documenting extensive limitations on freedom of speech, the media and assembly. Furthermore, the lack of faith in the independence of electoral institutions marred the legitimacy of the result. After the February 2016 elections, independent observers and Uganda’s Supreme Court made a series of recommendations for important reforms. Norway recommends that Uganda carry out such reforms to ensure future elections can be held while respecting human rights.

Norway commends Uganda for strengthening women’s rights in laws and policies, however, sexual and gender based violence and disparities in economic opportunities remains widespread. There is scope for improvement of health care providers’ ability to offer sexual and reproductive information and services, including safe abortions. We recommend that laws, regulations and plans regarding women’s rights are implemented along with adequate training and resources.

Norway shares Uganda’s view that the private sector has a key role in national development. We recommend that the Government of Uganda adopts a National Action Plan for Business and Human Rights, building on the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights.

Lastly, Norway recommends the Government of Uganda to respect, protect and promote the human rights of all persons, without discrimination on any grounds, including sexual orientation, gender identity or same-sex relationships between consenting adults.

Thank you.