world 14 October 2026 The Observer (Uganda)
Uganda-US Deportation Deal Under Fire for Human Rights Concerns
An agreement between Uganda and the Trump administration has led to the deportation of individuals to Uganda under questionable circumstances, raising legal and ethical concerns. The deal, known as an Asylum Cooperative Agreement (ACA), has been challenged in Ugandan courts and criticized by human rights advocates. Source: https://observer.ug/news/inside-musevenis-deportation-deal-with-trump
In April 2026, eight individuals, deported from the United States, arrived in Entebbe, Uganda. These deportees, who had limited knowledge of each other and primarily spoke French, were met with difficult conditions, including lack of funds and communication, according to human rights lawyer Robert Okot.
The deportations were carried out under an Asylum Cooperative Agreement (ACA) signed between Uganda and the U.S. in July 2025. While the agreement’s stated aim is the “dignified, safe, and timely transfer” of individuals seeking protection, critics argue it represents a transactional approach to foreign policy and potentially violates democratic commitments and international law.
Observers note that this deal could bolster President Museveni’s government amidst concerns about Uganda’s democratic standing. Conversely, the Trump administration appeared less focused on pressing for political rights abroad, a departure from previous U.S. administrations.
Legal challenges have emerged, with the Uganda Law Society and the East African Law Society filing a lawsuit to nullify the ACA. They contend that admitting third-country nationals without a clear framework for refugee status determination contravenes the Ugandan Constitution and international obligations. The case faces significant political sensitivity, with concerns of retaliation against those involved.
On the U.S. side, the deportations raise questions about adherence to the 1967 Protocol on the Status of Refugees, as mass deportations are viewed internationally as potentially constituting crimes against humanity.
Statements regarding the ACA have been contradictory. Initially, Uganda’s junior Foreign Affairs minister denied the agreement’s existence, citing a lack of facilities. However, a permanent secretary later confirmed the accord, stipulating that deportees would not face torture.
Deportees faced significant hardships, including limited access to legal counsel and family. One case highlighted by Human Rights First involved an Ethiopian man deported to Uganda despite fears of refoulement. While some deportees were granted asylum in Uganda, many faced dire economic prospects due to high youth unemployment.
This story was produced with support from the Fund for Investigative Journalism (FIJ) and is part of an ongoing joint investigation between CCIJ and New Lines Magazine.