The World Bank has said it will no longer consider new loans to Uganda over the adoption of a law that proscribes same-sex conduct.
The Ugandan government had earlier in the
year passed a law against anti-lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender
practices in the country.
The law includes life imprisonment and a
death sentence as penalties for anyone convicted.
The World Bank in a statement on Tuesday
condemned the law, saying it is not in line with the global development
lender’s core values.
The statement read, “Uganda’s
Anti-Homosexuality Act fundamentally contradicts the World Bank Group’s values.
“We believe our vision to eradicate poverty
on a livable planet can only succeed if it includes everyone irrespective of
race, gender, or sexuality.
“This law undermines those efforts. Inclusion
and non-discrimination sit at the heart of our work around the world.
“Immediately after the law was enacted, the
World Bank deployed a team to Uganda to review our portfolio in the context of
the new legislation.
“That review determined additional measures
are necessary to ensure projects are implemented in alignment with our
environmental and social standards.
“Our goal is to protect sexual and gender
minorities from discrimination and exclusion in the projects we finance. These
measures are currently under discussion with the authorities.
“No new public financing to Uganda will be
presented to our board of executive directors until the efficacy of the
additional measures has been tested.
“Third-party monitoring and grievance redress
mechanisms will significantly increase, allowing us to take corrective action
as necessary.”
The World Bank Group, however, noted it still
maintains a longstanding and productive relationship with Uganda despite the
development.
“We remain committed to helping all Ugandans,
without exception, escape poverty, access vital services, and improve their
lives,” it added.
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