Geneva, Switzerland – Ugandan diplomats held a high-level meeting with the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the situation of Human Rights Defenders, Ms. Mary Lawlor, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen engagement on human rights issues at the international level. The meeting which took place on March 5, 2026, brought together Ambassador Marcel Tibaleka, Ambassador Arthur Kafeero, and Ambassador Mugerwa John Leonard, alongside Ms. Mary Namono. The Ugandan delegation engaged Ms. Lawlor and her team in discussions focused on areas of mutual interest, particularly Uganda’s cooperation with United Nations human rights mechanisms.
During the engagement, both sides exchanged views on the role of human rights defenders and the importance of creating an environment that supports their work. The discussions also highlighted Uganda’s continued interaction with UN mandate holders and its commitment to constructive dialogue on human rights matters. The meeting provided a platform to share perspectives, address concerns, and explore opportunities for collaboration in promoting and protecting fundamental freedoms.
Ms. Lawlor, who serves as the UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights Defenders, is tasked with monitoring, reporting, and advising on the situation of individuals and groups working to promote and protect human rights worldwide. Her engagement with national representatives is a key aspect of fostering cooperation and ensuring that international human rights standards are upheld. H.E. Alexander Kmentt, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of the Republic of Austria to the United Nations in Geneva, paid a courtesy call on Ambassador Marcel Tibaleka. The meeting between the Austrian and Ugandan representatives further underscored the importance of diplomatic dialogue and partnership within the multilateral system.
The discussions between Uganda’s representatives and both the UN Special Rapporteur and the Austrian envoy reflect the country’s active participation in international forums and its willingness to engage on critical global issues. Such interactions are seen as vital in building mutual understanding, strengthening partnerships, and advancing shared goals within the United Nations framework. Overall, the engagements reaffirm Uganda’s commitment to maintaining open channels of communication with international stakeholders while contributing to ongoing conversations on human rights and global cooperation.
