Giving voice to the voiceless : Amnesty international’s advocacy and the promotion of political rights in Uganda

Abstract

Political rights are essential for democratic governance and citizen participation, yet their realisation in Uganda continues to face various restrictions. This study examined the influence of Amnesty International’s advocacy role in the promotion of political rights in Uganda. Guided by Constructivist Theory, the study adopted a qualitative approach using a case study design. The study involved 32 participants drawn from Amnesty International, civil society organisations, journalists, legal practitioners, human rights activists, and community leaders knowledgeable about political rights advocacy in Uganda. Data were collected between June and September 2025 through 12 key informant interviews, 2 four focus group discussions, participant observation, and document review, and were analysed using thematic analysis. Findings revealed that Amnesty International promotes political rights through human rights advocacy, monitoring and documentation of violations, civic awareness and human rights education, legislative and legal advocacy, media freedom promotion, collaboration with local human rights organisations, protection of human rights defenders, and utilisation of international advocacy mechanisms. These interventions enhanced public awareness of political rights, strengthened accountability for human rights violations, amplified the voices of vulnerable groups, and promoted democratic participation. However, their effectiveness was constrained by political resistance, shrinking civic space, and limited implementation of human rights recommendations. The study concludes that Amnesty International remains an influential actor in advancing political rights and strengthening democratic participation in Uganda. The study recommends strengthening collaboration among human rights actors, expanding civic education initiatives, and enhancing mechanisms for protecting political freedoms and citizen engagement