The National Association of Social Workers (NASW-USA) denounces the Parliament of the Republic of Uganda for continuing to consider, and scheduling a vote on, the “Anti-Homosexuality Bill.” This bill, if passed, will further stigmatize the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) citizens of Uganda and put their human rights at risk.
The “Anti-Homosexuality Bill” in the Ugandan Parliament could set a serious precedent for other countries—allowing extreme penalties of death and life in prison, and punishable offenses for a broad range of individuals if they fail to report suspected homosexuality to the authorities. This violates fundamental human rights and hinders effective public health responses to HIV and AIDS.
NASW-USA believes that people with same-gender sexual orientation should be afforded the same respect and rights as those with other gender orientation. Discrimination and prejudice directed against any group is damaging to the social, emotional, and economic well-being of both the affected group and of society as a whole. This holds true for Ugandan society, as well as any other.
NASW-USA stands with the International Federation of Social Workers (IFSW) in strong opposition of this measure.
