Despite falling behind on the global issue of same-sex marriage rights, it seems that the Australian Government has stepped up to the plate regarding homosexuality laws in both Uganda and Nigeria.

Foreign Minister Bob Carr has today announced that Australia has lodged a formal diplomatic protest against proposed legislation in Uganda and Nigeria, where rights for the LGBT community are worsening.

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New laws proposed in Uganda would make homosexuality punishable by life imprisonment, whilst in Nigeria a 14 year sentence would be imposed.

The Minister for Foreign Affairs Senator Bob Carr condemned the proposed laws, stating ‘these anti-homosexuality measures are a disgrace to human decency and should be withdrawn.’

Uganda’s new laws would also enforce a three year sentence for those who fail to report alleged ‘offences’.

‘We’ll continue to voice Australia’s opposition if these matters are returned before the Ugandan or Nigerian parliaments in 2013’, said Carr.

The Nigerian Same Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act has passed through Parliament but is yet to become law, the Act will not only worsen sentences for homosexuality but may also criminalise advocacy for LGBT rights.

The proposed laws have drawn condemnation from US President Barack Obama, and have also faced opposition from British, Canadian and French governments.

Read our story on the introduction of the Ugandan Bill here

Read our story on two Ugandan men getting married in Sweden here 

 Nadine Walker