The Pan African Network for Artistic Freedom (PANAF) and Uganda’s film umbrella body Pearlwood and the Foundation for Human Rights Initiative have unveiled a new report, titled, An Assessment of Artistic Freedom:Uganda, which sheds light on the status of artistic rights and freedom in Uganda, with a particular focus on the legal framework and overall awareness among artists.
The report surveyed approximately 300 respondents, highlighting varying levels of awareness regarding the protection of artistic freedom. While 49% of the participants acknowledged the existence of artistic freedom protection under Chapter Four of the 1995 Uganda Constitution, only 30% had a general understanding of the laws governing the creative arts. Surprisingly, 60% of respondents were unaware of any such laws, leaving a mere 4% knowledgeable about the legal aspects specifically related to performing arts and artistic freedom.
Notably, the study also highlighted the diminishing spaces for LGBTQ+ artists, underscoring the challenges faced by marginalised groups within the artistic community. There was also a notable shift in leadership roles, with women taking the lead in various artistic organisations. Female figures such as the President General of Pearlwood, the President and General Secretary of the Actors Guild, and the President and Secretary General of the Uganda Musicians Association were cited as examples.
Based on the findings, the report offered recommendations to address the identified issues. These included strengthening organisations and creating safe regional markets to foster artistic freedom; Implementation of effective measures that safeguard artists from precarious working conditions, ensuring the gig economy does not hinder their ability to thrive in the sector; Establishment of a National Art Council, acting as a governing body. This body will oversee the industry, mobilise stakeholders, advocate for laws and policies, streamline markets, and champion artistic rights; Allocation of a dedicated budget for the creative arts is imperative to foster its growth and development and finally, the judiciary must play a pivotal role by reviewing and repealing laws that unduly restrict freedom of expression, including artistic expression.
Speaking about the new report, Nagadya Solome, Director, Legal Services Division at the Foundation for Human Rights Initiative said; “This report sheds light on the status of artists, the gaps in the regulatory framework, and opportunities in regards to artistic rights and freedoms. On behalf of PANAF Uganda, we are grateful for the support and trust from SELAM and the Swedish Art Council in ensuring that this report is published as it lays a foundation for the history of Artistic Freedoms and rights in the creative industry in Uganda and Africa at large.”
The PANAF project is being implemented with the support of the Swedish Arts Council.
The full report is available here:
