Human rights are not gifts from the government. They belong to every person simply because they are human. These rights ensure dignity, freedom, and equality for all people, regardless of their background, beliefs, or status. They are the foundation of a fair and just society.
In Uganda, this idea is clearly stated in the 1995 Constitution. Article 20 explains that human rights are inherent—they are not given by the State. Article 1 adds that power belongs to the people, and the government only exercises that power on their behalf. This means leaders are expected to respect, protect, and fulfil the rights of citizens.
Uganda has also signed important international agreements such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights. These frameworks emphasise that human rights are universal (they apply to everyone), inalienable (they cannot simply be taken away), and indivisible (all rights are equally important and connected).
Human rights cover many aspects of life. They include the right to life and liberty, freedom from torture or unlawful detention, and freedoms such as expression, religion, and peaceful assembly. They also include the right to participate in elections, access education and healthcare, and live free from discrimination. These rights can only be limited under strict legal conditions, and not for political convenience.
Over time, global human rights systems have also focused on protecting vulnerable groups such as women, children, and persons with disabilities. For example, women’s rights include protection from violence, equal access to education and employment, and participation in leadership. However, despite laws in place, many of these rights are still not fully realised in practice, including in Uganda.
Human Rights in Uganda Today
In reality, protecting human rights in Uganda has faced challenges. In the lead-up to the January 2026 general elections, the government suspended several human rights and governance organisations. These included groups involved in election monitoring, legal aid, journalism, and support for victims of torture.
The suspensions were based on claims of security concerns, but the reasons were not clearly explained. As a result, operations were stopped, bank accounts frozen, and staff affected. These actions happened alongside internet disruptions and limits on public gatherings.
This situation has raised concerns about shrinking civic space in Uganda. Civil society organisations play an important role in supporting communities, promoting accountability, and protecting rights. When their work is restricted, ordinary citizens—especially vulnerable groups—are often the most affected.
The Protection of Sovereignty Bill
At the same time, Parliament is considering the Protection of Sovereignty Bill (2025/2026). The bill aims to protect Uganda from foreign influence in areas like politics and governance.
Some of its key proposals include requiring organisations to declare foreign funding within a short time, giving the Minister of Internal Affairs more power to regulate activities, and imposing heavy penalties for violations. The bill could affect NGOs, media, universities, and even Ugandans in the diaspora.
Supporters argue that the bill is necessary to protect Uganda’s independence and ensure that foreign actors do not interfere with national decisions. They believe it strengthens the idea that power belongs to the people.
However, critics are worried about its potential impact. They argue that broad or unclear provisions could be used to silence independent voices. There are concerns that organisations may begin to self-censor, reduce their activities, or lose funding for important work in areas like health, education, and human rights.
What This Means for Ugandans
For ordinary Ugandans, these developments could have real consequences. Many NGOs provide essential services such as support for victims of violence, legal assistance, and community development programmes. Restrictions on their work could create gaps in service delivery.
There are also concerns about reduced accountability. If organisations that monitor elections or government actions are limited, it becomes harder for citizens to participate meaningfully in public affairs.
Freedoms such as expression, association, and peaceful assembly could also face increased restrictions. In addition, strict rules on funding may discourage international partnerships that support development efforts.
Legal experts emphasise that any law must follow constitutional standards. Restrictions on rights should be lawful, necessary, proportionate, and fair. International best practices also recommend targeted approaches that do not harm legitimate civil society work.
Conclusion
Human rights are a basic entitlement for every Ugandan. They are not privileges that can be withdrawn at will. At the same time, protecting national sovereignty is an important goal.
The challenge is to strike a balance. Efforts to protect the country must not weaken the rights that allow citizens to express themselves, organise, and hold leaders accountable. These rights are essential for true democracy.
As discussions on the Protection of Sovereignty Bill continue, it is important for all stakeholders—government, civil society, and citizens—to engage openly. Any law passed should strengthen, not undermine, Uganda’s constitutional values and international commitments.
In the end, respecting human rights is not a threat to sovereignty. It is what makes sovereignty meaningful for the people.
Steven Jet Mulindwa,
Is a Third Year Law Student,
Junior and Legal Research Associate,
Centre for Multilateral Affairs