In a proactive move towards enhancing gender inclusivity in policy-making, @wougnet convened a pivotal national dialogue focused on Freedom of Expression & Access to Information at Fairway Hotel. This gathering brought together key stakeholders to address pressing issues and collaborate on strategic solutions.
Central to the discussions was the fundamental right to access information, highlighted by @murungi_pato, who emphasized its dual nature: as a public entitlement to critical information and a safeguard for media to gather news essential to societal interests. This dual perspective underscores the pivotal role of information in sustaining a vibrant democracy.
The dialogue identified significant gaps in current legislation affecting Freedom of Expression & Access to Information:
- Ambiguous provisions that are prone to misinterpretation.
- Legislative frameworks that fall short of international standards.
- Instances of legal misuse to suppress freedom of expression.
- Unclear guidelines hindering effective law enforcement.
In response to these challenges, the dialogue proposed actionable recommendations aimed at fostering inclusive policies:
- Urging the Law Reform Commission to undertake comprehensive reforms of outdated laws that impede freedom of expression, thereby enabling unrestricted public discourse both online and offline.
- Advocating for targeted training of state agencies, particularly law enforcement, to ensure effective implementation of new laws governing online media and to prevent unjustified arrests.
- Emphasizing the imperative of government compliance with international human rights standards, reaffirming commitments to uphold these fundamental rights.
- Calling for a human rights-based approach to evaluate limitations on freedom of expression and access to information, ensuring any restrictions are proportionate and necessary.
A key takeaway from the dialogue was the need to depoliticize the right to freedom of expression, asserting that this fundamental right should be universally accessible, irrespective of political affiliations.
Participants unanimously called for the decriminalization of defamation laws in Uganda, arguing that current legislation often stifles open discourse. Decriminalization is seen as pivotal in fostering a climate of trust and transparency within public discourse.
Moreover, the dialogue stressed the importance of fostering constructive dialogues among stakeholders with diverse viewpoints. Such engagements are essential in nurturing a culture of respectful debate and mutual understanding on contentious issues.
Looking ahead, participants committed to leveraging legal avenues to challenge restrictive laws, ensuring robust protection of rights to freedom of expression and access to information across Uganda.
The national dialogue represents a significant milestone in advancing gender-inclusive policies, setting a precedent for collaborative efforts toward a more informed and equitable society.
Compiled by Sabila Osman, Technical Support Manager.
