Suspend cooperation with Uganda and summon the ambassador

The N-VA wants to temporarily suspend direct development cooperation with Uganda because a few days ago a 31-year-old compatriot was arrested due to his sexual orientation. The party also wants to summon the Ugandan ambassador to explain the situation.

A few months ago, Uganda introduced an ‘anti-gay law’ that makes it possible to hand out a life sentence for repeated homosexual contacts. The N-VA is pleased that our country is withholding part of the pledged funds for a cooperation agreement with Uganda, but is surprised at the lukewarm response from the federal government.

As far as the N-VA is concerned, it is clear: if a country does not respect basic human rights we must put our commitments on hold. Belgian taxpayers’ money cannot be used for a repressive policy against homosexuals, lesbians and bisexuals in Uganda. Therefore, the N-VA is advocating a cessation of the direct cooperation between the Belgian and Ugandan governments.