An Examination of the Legislative Limitations of Artistic Freedom of Expression in Uganda

Artistic freedom of expression is guaranteed under the 1995 Constitution of the Republic of Uganda and other international instruments. This paper examines its application in all forms of art including paintings, music, poetry, novels, and plays. The paper examines the different legislation used in the restriction of artistic freedom of expression. It argues that these restrictions are contrary to the guarantees of freedom of expression provided in the Constitution and in various regional and international instruments. Part I of this paper gives a historical background to artistic freedom of expression noting how it has been suppressed since colonial times. Part II examines international protection of artistic freedom of expression while Part III analyses the protection of artistic freedom of expression in Uganda as guaranteed by the Constitution. Part IV analyses the legislation limiting artistic freedom of expression and highlights how these are incompatible with international and local human rights standards. Part V puts forward the case for artistic freedom of expression. Finally, Part VI provides the conclusion.