Project Overview:
Uganda boasts a fast-growing civil society with over 2,000 registered Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) that contribute to national development, good governance and rule of law. Despite the positive contributions of Ugandan civil society and the existing legal protections, there are still several laws and policies with provisions that curtail on the enjoyment of their rights and freedoms in addition to stringent restrictions and directives that contravene and infringe on their Freedom of Expression (FoE) and Access to Information (A2I). This environment makes it very difficult for Civil Society Organisations to thrive and carry out their operations. Creating an enabling environment for Civil Society Organisations requires a multi-stakeholder approach, therefore, the project will involve the direct engagement of women-led CSOs, media organisations, and the government with intended outcomes of: – i) Increased knowledge and awareness among women-led and broader CSOs on the restrictive laws and policies affecting their freedom of expression and right to access of information. ii) Women-led CSOs engaging constructively with government departments, agencies, and policy makers to challenge discriminatory laws and policies affecting the freedom of expression and right to access of information. iii) An effective coalition of women led CSOs established holding the government accountable for restrictions on A2I and FoE and expanding the protection mechanisms available to reduce violations of women’s rights to FoE and A2I. iv) Vibrant and resilient woman led Civil Society Organisations in Uganda.
