Despite the existence and implementation of laws such as the Computer Misuse Act, there still remains a need to address gender disparities and ensure that women are considered in policy formulation processes. Women in Uganda still face numerous challenges i.e. gender-based violence, a pervasive issue, with many cases going unreported due to social stigma and inadequate support systems. The conversation around women’s inclusion in decision making processes took center stage on January 28, 2025, during an X (formerly Twitter) chat organized by Women of Uganda Network (WOUGNET). Under the theme “Leveraging Digital and Policy Spaces to Protect Women’s Freedom of Expression and Access to Information”, the chat highlighted the intersection between digital rights and gender justice. Participants shared firsthand experiences, research insights, and policy critiques, drawing urgent attention to the growing threat of online censorship which limits women’s ability to fully express themselves and access critical information.
In response to these growing threats, initiatives like WOUGNET’s project, Civil Society in Uganda Participation Program have created awareness around the mechanisms and impact of infringing on women’s rights to Freedom of Expression, Access to Information and exclusion from decision making processes. The X chat provided marginalized groups, especially women human rights defenders with a platform to share their experiences, challenges and actionable recommendations to ensure inclusion of women in decision making processes.
Key recommendations included active engagement with marginalised groups and community leaders to better understand their unique needs and capacity building programs to provide knowledge and skills to effectively participate in policy making processes.
Get more insights from the chat here.
Compiled by
Irene Marunga
Communication Associate
