Ubuntu Disability Action for Development Uganda (UDADU) was honored to participate in the Multi-Stakeholder Policy Dialogue on Strengthening Legal Safeguards for Human Rights Defenders (HRDs), organized under the Civic Space Initiative (CSI) by the Centre for Policy Analysis (CEPA) in partnership with Avocats Sans Frontières (ASF).
The dialogue, held on 21st August 2025 at Hotel Africana, Kampala, brought together legislators, regulators, civil society actors, the judiciary, and the media to reflect on the current legal framework for HRDs, identify gaps, and propose actionable solutions to ensure safer, more enabling environments for civic actors.
Key Discussions
- The restrictive nature of laws such as the NGO Act (2016), Public Order Management Act (2013), and the Anti-Terrorism Act, which have been used to curtail civic freedoms.
- The persistent harassment, intimidation, and shrinking operating space faced by HRDs, including those advocating for disability rights.
- The urgent need to harmonize Uganda’s legal framework with international human rights commitments, such as the UN Declaration on Human Rights Defenders and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
- Hon. Sarah Opendi pledged to table the Human Rights Defenders Bill (2020) before Parliament, emphasizing its necessity for Uganda’s democratic development.
Our Perspective
As a community-rooted Organization for Persons with Disabilities (OPD) working with marginalized groups—particularly persons with disabilities in last-mile communities—UDADU highlighted that disability rights defenders face double marginalization: both as HRDs and as persons with disabilities. Strengthening legal safeguards must include inclusive frameworks that address accessibility barriers and discrimination.
Key Takeaways
- Evidence matters – Legislative and policy monitoring must guide reforms.
- Dialogue is critical – Continuous engagement between state and non-state actors builds trust.
- Inclusion must be prioritized – HRDs with disabilities and marginalized groups such as the Batwa must be part of the conversation.
- Action beyond words – Policy briefs and recommendations must translate into parliamentary and institutional reforms.
Moving Forward
UDADU remains committed to engaging in multi-stakeholder platforms that defend civic space and amplify the voices of marginalized groups. We look forward to continued partnerships with CEPA, ASF, and other stakeholders to ensure that human rights defenders—especially disability rights advocates—can work in safe and enabling environments.
Together, we can safeguard civic space and build an inclusive Uganda where no one is left behind.