By Trend News Line 2024-03-20 10:45:16.
Canada Urged to Take Action Against LGBTQ+ Rights Rollback Abroad
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Canada is facing criticism from activists for not taking a stronger stance against the rollback of LGBTQ+ rights in Uganda and Ghana. Steven Kabuye, an activist from Uganda who was stabbed in broad daylight earlier this year, described the situation in his country as dire, stating that \”they’ve legalized homophobia.\”
Last year, Uganda implemented a law that imposes harsh penalties for homosexuality, including life imprisonment and the death penalty for certain acts. Similarly, Ghana recently passed a draft law that could lead to lengthy prison terms for anyone promoting LGBTQ+ rights.
Despite condemning these laws, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government has been accused of not doing enough to push back against them. The Dignity Network, a coalition of Canadian groups advocating for LGBTQ+ rights globally, expressed frustration at the lack of action from Ottawa.
In contrast, the United States has taken more decisive steps, including issuing visa bans on certain Ugandan politicians and diverting HIV funding away from the Ugandan government. The U.S. has also criticized the Ghanaian draft bill, warning of its potential negative impact on the country’s economy and human rights reputation.
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Activists are calling on Canada to leverage its influence to impose sanctions on politicians spreading hate in Uganda and Ghana. They also urge foreign companies to reconsider doing business in these countries in response to the discriminatory legislation.
Steven Kabuye’s personal experience highlights the dangers faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in Uganda. After being attacked and experiencing mistreatment by police, Kabuye sought refuge in Canada, where he is currently staying with the help of local activists.
The Toronto-based Coalition for Queer Ghanaian Liberation is urging Canada to speak out against the draft bill in Ghana and consider sanctions to discourage discriminatory policies. The group is concerned that the bill will lead to more LGBTQ+ Africans seeking asylum in Canada, adding pressure to the country’s refugee housing system.
While Global Affairs Canada has made diplomatic representations with Uganda and is assessing response options, critics argue that more concrete action is needed. Doug Kerr of the Dignity Network emphasized the importance of supporting human rights defenders and implementing temporary asylum programs for activists at risk.
As the debate around LGBTQ+ rights continues in Uganda and Ghana, activists stress the need for Canada to take a stronger stance and uphold its commitment to promoting human rights globally. This report by The Canadian Press underscores the urgency of the situation and the importance of international solidarity in defending LGBTQ+ rights..
Uganda Ghana LGBTQ+ activists Ottawa take homophobic laws
Uganda Ghana LGBTQ+ activists Ottawa action homophobic laws.
