Statements made by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson (Paris, February 25, 2014)

Uganda – Law criminalizing homosexuality

France is concerned following the enactment of a law strengthening the criminalization of homosexuality in Uganda. As the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights reaffirmed in her report published this year “Born Free and Equal,” the basic principles of equality and non-discrimination apply to everyone under international human rights law. The provisions penalizing homosexuality are contrary to the international treaties on human rights freely ratified by Uganda.

France reaffirms its commitment to the universal decriminalization of homosexuality and the fight against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. It supports civil society initiatives aimed at combating these types of discrimination.

In this context, France calls on the Ugandan authorities to uphold their international commitments relating to the protection of human rights.