Welcoming the European Union in upholding Uganda to human rights standards

2026-02-25 - 11:18

European Ambassador Jan Sadek at the celebrations to mark 50 years of diplomatic presence and partnership in Uganda, On February 12, the European Union Parliament adopted three resolutions addressing human rights violations in Iran, Turkey, and Uganda. The resolution concerning Uganda focused on the deficiencies of the 2026 elections, the state of human rights, and the status of democracy. The EU Parliament’s resolution, which condemned Uganda’s current oppressive and repressive environment and the upcoming 2026 elections, was passed with 514 votes in favour, three against, and 56 abstentions. The resolution highlighted widespread intimidation, harassment, and detention of key opposition figures, internet blackouts, the persecution of Bobi Wine and Dr. Kiiza Besigye, the suspension of civil society, torture, and enforced disappearances as crimes against humanity that undermine the EU’s principles, values, and development cooperation. Members of the EU Parliament in Brussels concluded by calling for impartial investigations into the crimes and atrocities committed by political and military leaders. In Uganda, the resolution elicited mixed reactions. Victims of oppression and those enabling it responded strongly. Many Ugandans welcomed the EU Parliament’s firm stance on demanding accountability for human rights violations and advocating for good governance. However, some supporters of the National Resistance Movement accused the EU of interfering in the affairs of a sovereign state. For example, Walokoka Omwijukuru commented on the EU Parliament’s social media account, stating, “This is not a colony of the EU Parliament; you have many issues to solve in your backyard, deal with them first.” Such statements are not merely random social media comments; they are part of a coordinated effort to intimidate development partners who demand accountability and transparency. It is crucial to address these responses and emphasize the importance of international oversight in promoting human rights and democratic principles. In the 21st century, abductions, assault, electoral fraud, physical brutality, cyberstalking, harassment, enforced disappearances, and the torture of innocent civilians by military forces should not be normalized anywhere in the world. No Ugandan or African should justify or defend actions that dehumanize and denigrate fellow human beings, regardless of political differences, tribe, race, gender, or faith. As a member state of the United Nations, Uganda is committed to upholding the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance, as well as the Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman, or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (CAT 1987). Consequently, the Ugandan government is obligated to protect the lives of all citizens, conduct free and fair elections, and safeguard democratic rights and political liberties in accordance with the UN International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the European Convention on Human Rights of 1950. Regrettably, the repression of political opponents, abductions, torture, brutality, enforced disappearances, and electoral violence perpetrated by Uganda’s military during the 2026 elections not only violated the democratic principles enshrined in Uganda’s 1995 Constitution but also breached the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the African Charter on Democracy, Elections, and Governance, and the ICGLR Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance. These instruments compel signatory member states to adhere to the rule of law, maintain the separation of powers, and uphold free and fair elections. Nations must comply with international instruments, agreements, principles, and values such as democracy, human rights, and good governance to benefit from international trade, investments, and diplomatic relations. It is within this context that the European Union invests approximately 150 billion euros in Africa. As a significant investor and trade partner to Uganda, the European Union (EU) has a vested interest in monitoring developments in countries where European taxpayers’ money is allocated. In today’s interconnected world, global events have far- reaching impacts; issues in one region can influence others. The EU is currently facing increasing numbers of immigrants from Africa, driven by factors such as unemployment, poverty, and political persecution, which often result from poor governance, human rights violations, and entrenched authoritarianism. By advocating for electoral reforms, an end to political oppression, and the protection of human rights, the EU is addressing its own challenges while demonstrating a commitment to global humanitarian values. It is important to remember that similar violations of human rights and abuses of power led the EU to sever diplomatic ties with Uganda during the Idi Amin Dada regime. The European Union is making concerted efforts to prevent Uganda from reverting to its troubled past while ensuring accountability for European funds used in foreign missions. To maintain healthy diplomatic relations, Uganda’s leadership must engage in sincere introspection to address its undemocratic practices and human rights issues. I commend the European Union’s initiatives as a testament to its dedication to safeguarding human dignity, electoral integrity, universal human rights, meaningful democracy, and good governance among its partner states. The writer is a sustainable development analyst and a defender of human rights