Since Uganda passed its harsh anti-gay law, the global community has struck back, cutting much-needed foreign aid.
The law, signed by President Yoweri Museveni, says perpetrators of “aggravated homosexuality” will face life in prison. It also says that anyone “aiding homosexuality” could be imprisoned as well, which could be used to imprison health clinic workers and counselors.
Sweden recently became the fourth country to officially cut its assistance to Uganda. Along with Denmark, Norway, and the Netherlands, European nations have put the brakes on nearly $30 million in foreign aid.
The biggest financial blow, however, came from the World Bank, which announced it would postpone a $90-million loan.
“We have postponed the project for further review to ensure that the development objectives would not be adversely affected by the enactment of this new law,” World Bank spokesman David Theis told Reuters.
While the United States has not officially cut any funding yet, Secretary of State John Kerry released a statement criticizing Uganda’s law and warning of further action.
“We are beginning an internal review of our relationship with the government of Uganda to ensure that all dimensions of our engagement, including assistance programs, uphold our anti-discrimination policies and principles and reflect our values,” Kerry said in the statement.
The EU, Canada, and the UK have released similar statements. Here’s a look at how much Uganda stands to lose as a result of its anti-gay law.
This story was published by The Global Post.