Human Rights Watch Calls for Release of Two Ugandan Women Detained for Allegedly Kissing in Public

Human Rights Watch demands the release of two women arrested in Uganda for allegedly kissing, citing violations of international human rights treaties.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 11, 2026, 9:34 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Human Rights Watch

Detention Under Draconian Legislation

Two women remain in police custody in Uganda following their arrest on February 18 for allegedly kissing in public. According to Human Rights Watch, the pair is being detained under the country’s controversial Anti Homosexuality Act. While the women were briefly released on February 27, they were promptly re arrested. Police officials stated the arrests were based on community reports of "queer and unusual acts," a move that activists say highlights the increasing surveillance and harassment of the LGBT community.

Legal Framework and Severe Penalties

The 2023 Anti Homosexuality Act is considered one of the most restrictive laws of its kind globally. It builds upon colonial era penal codes by criminalizing consensual same sex conduct with penalties reaching up to life imprisonment. Furthermore, the act introduces the death penalty for "aggravated homosexuality." While the Ugandan Supreme Court struck down a provision in 2024 that mandated citizens report suspected homosexual activity, human rights groups report that arbitrary arrests and community led entrapment have continued to rise.

International Human Rights Obligations

Human Rights Watch argues that the detention of these women directly contravenes Uganda’s obligations under the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights. This international treaty guarantees equality before the law and provides protection against discrimination and arbitrary arrest. The African Commission has previously called on member states to prevent violence and abuse based on gender identity or sexual orientation, a standard that international observers say is being ignored by current Ugandan enforcement practices.