Burkina Faso’s LGBTQ Community on Edge: Worries Grow Over ‘Witch Hunt’ Following New Anti-Gay Legislation

OUAGADOUGOU, Burkina Faso — As new anti-LGBTQ legislation takes effect in Burkina Faso, members of the local LGBTQ community are expressing deep concerns about potential repercussions they may face. Activists warn that the government’s actions could lead to a widespread crackdown reminiscent of a “witch hunt” targeting sexual minorities. The controversial law, which criminalizes same-sex relations, poses an immediate risk to individuals identifying as LGBTQ. Many fear that this legal framework will embolden discriminatory practices, leading to harassment, violence, and even arbitrary detentions. Local organizations dedicated to LGBTQ rights have reported an atmosphere of heightened … Read more

Uganda’s Domestic Debt Surge Linked to Anti-Gay Legislation’s Impact on Foreign Lending

Kampala, Uganda – The domestic debt in Uganda has surged dramatically amid international lenders pulling back in response to the country’s strict anti-gay legislation. This law has sparked widespread condemnation from foreign governments and organizations, leading to a tightening of available funds and increased financial pressure on the Ugandan economy. As foreign financing dwindles, Uganda’s reliance on domestic borrowing has escalated. The country’s debt reached approximately 57 trillion Ugandan shillings (about $15.5 billion) by the end of the last fiscal year, representing over 50% of GDP. The increase has raised concerns over fiscal sustainability and … Read more

Uganda’s Supreme Court Faces Landmark Appeal Over Anti-Gay Legislation Amidst International Condemnation

Kampala, Uganda — Rights activists and a Ugandan politician initiated an appeal to Uganda’s Supreme Court on Thursday, striving to overturn a prior ruling that affirmed the Anti-Homosexuality Act, known for imposing some of the toughest penalties globally, including the death penalty and life imprisonment for homosexual acts. Lawyer Nicholas Opiyo, representing the appellants, confirmed the submission of the appeal, marking a critical juncture in the fight against the legislation. The pushback comes after Uganda’s Constitutional Court in April upheld the severe anti-gay legislation enacted last year, dismissing arguments that it breached the country’s constitution. … Read more

Uganda’s Constitutional Court Upholds Controversial Anti-Gay Law, Sparking Outrage from LGBT Activists

Kampala, Uganda – Uganda’s constitutional court has made a ruling regarding the country’s controversial anti-gay law. On Wednesday, the court declined to annul or grant a permanent injunction against the enforcement of the law, which has been met with fierce opposition from the LGBT community and human rights activists. The judges acknowledged that the law does infringe on certain fundamental human rights, but ultimately decided against nullifying it. The case before the court involved petitioners who were questioning the law’s violation of equal protection for all Ugandans. However, the panel of five judges, led by … Read more