U.S. Warns Americans About Travel to Uganda

metroweekly.com:

The U.S. State Department has issued an advisory warning Americans about traveling to Uganda following the passage of a sweeping anti-LGBTQ law.

The State Department is advising Americans to reconsider traveling to the East African country due to crime, terrorism threats, and the country’s recently passed Anti-Homosexuality Act. “The May 2023 Anti-Homosexuality Act raises the risk that LGBTQI+ persons, and those perceived to be LGBTQI+, could be prosecuted and subjected to life imprisonment or death based on provisions in the law, and may be subject to mandatory reporting to the police if they are suspected of committing or intending to commit acts in violation of the law, and could face harassment or attacks by vigilantes,” the advisory reads.“Supporters of the dignity and human rights of LGBTQI+ persons (including those of youth under the age of 18) could be prosecuted and imprisoned for multi-year sentences,” the advisory warns.

For those who must travel for business or insist on traveling to the country despite the advisory, the State Department has issued guidelines for how to behave while abroad.

That includes not leaving food or drinks unattended in public, especially in local clubs; remaining in groups; keeping a low profile; being aware of one’s surroundings; avoiding displaying signs of wealth and being vigilant when using ATMs; and carrying a copy of one’s passport and visa while securing the originals in a hotel safe.