The White House has warned Uganda of potential economic “repercussions” if a new bill prohibiting homosexual activities becomes law.
“We would have to look at whether or not there might be repercussions that we would have to take, perhaps in an economic way,” National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told journalists on Wednesday.
“So we’ll have to look into it. There are no decisions. We’re keeping a close eye on this. And, hopefully, it will not pass and we will not have to take any action.”
In Uganda, the bill proposes life sentences for people who identify as gay. In some cases, it also includes the death penalty.
It is currently awaiting presidential approval before becoming law.
The European Union is also concerned about the anti-homosexuality bill.
It stated in a statement that criminalizing homosexuality violates international human rights law.
“The European Union will continue to work with Ugandan authorities and civil society to ensure that all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, are treated equally, with dignity and respect,” the statement said.
