Women Human Rights Defenders Call for Protection
Kampala, Uganda
At a national conference in Kampala, women human rights defenders have called for stronger protections from the government ahead of the 2026 polls. They say past elections saw harassment, digital attacks, and intimidation.
They’re urging Parliament to pass a Human Rights Defenders Protection Bill to create legal safeguards for civil society actors, especially women.
Why it matters:
Women defenders are at higher risk in politically volatile periods.
Protection laws could strengthen democracy by safeguarding civic engagement.
Demonstrates growing mobilization among civil society to demand legal reforms ahead of elections.
What to watch:
Progress (or stalling) of the Human Rights Defenders Protection Bill.
Whether other civic groups (CSOs) join the call for protection.
State response: will government commit to formal protections?
What happens on the ground: are threats against activists reduced or intensified?
