Introduction 

Protection and expansion of civic space is a perpetual global concern. Digital tracking, government control, and civic limitations have made things dangerous for people. Over 117 million people have fled their home countries after living in restricted spaces. Freedom House mentioned that people in 28 out of 72 countries have seen their online rights decrease. When civic space shrinks, online or offline, people lose their voice. As elections, protests, and public debates increase, governments are using more control. This affects activists, journalists, opposition groups, and everyday citizens. The shrinking of civic space makes it harder for people to defend their rights and take part in democracy.

Shrinking Civic Space in Uganda 

Civic space is restricted when people cannot speak, organize, or protest safely. Such is the case in Uganda, where human rights violations increase as the 2026 elections get closer. Uganda still holds elections, but President Yoweri Museveni has been in power since 1986. As he runs again in 2026, the government has increased its tight control. Human rights groups report violence at opposition events, harassment, and limits on free speech and peaceful protests. Activists say police violence at political meetings is common. Many people are now afraid to speak out. One big reason for this problem is the lack of support for civil society and civic education. Cuts in foreign aid, especially from the United States, have reduced money for democracy programs. This has weakened voter education. Many rural communities do not have enough information about elections, but with less funding, civic groups struggle to inform people, watch elections, and hold leaders responsible.

Political opponents and activists now face more legal pressure. It is estimated that during this presidential campaign, 300 opposition supporters were detained. Leaders and supporters of opposition groups, including the National Unity Platform, are being arrested and detained. Many are also harassed. Speaking out is very risky. Outdated laws, like “common nuisance” and treason, are often used against protesters. “Common nuisance” laws are broad and vague, allowing governments to label peaceful protests as disturbances to public order and punish protesters even when they have not committed crimes. Police and courts are used to limit people’s rights and freedoms.

LGBTIQ+ communities face even more danger. Discriminatory laws have created a hostile environment. Many people face threats, abuse, and violence, both online and offline. Amnesty International reports more online abuse and little protection from the state. This stops LGBTIQ+ groups from speaking out or organizing. Online attacks and blackmail against LGBTIQ+ people increased after the 2023 Anti-Homosexuality Act. Even dating apps and social media are used to threaten people. This has led to arrests and job losses.

Shrinking Civic Space in Kenya

Kenya’s civic space is getting smaller and more limited. Recent reports indicate that Kenya is now listed among countries with severe restrictions on freedoms of speech, protest, and assembly. The CIVICUS Monitor says Kenya’s civic space has been downgraded to “repressed,” meaning people face big risks when they speak out or organize protests. Violent crackdowns on youth-led protests and rising state pressure have made many Kenyans feel unsafe when they try to voice their concerns.

Many people in Kenya now say that civic freedoms are worse than before. A survey found that over 55 percent of Kenyans believe the state of civic space is “bad” or “very bad.” In many places, people feel the government punishes those who express their views, both online and offline. Human rights defenders say that authorities use punishments and threats instead of protecting people’s constitutional rights. The situation has become more serious because of how the government has reacted to protests. Thousands of Kenyans protested against issues like high taxes and corruption. In response, the state used tear gas, violence, sexual violence, and other extreme tactics. Around nine deaths, 531 injuries, and 15 enforced disappearances were reported during the June 2025 strikes. In addition, between June 25 and July 11, 2025, 1,500 people were arrested. These harsh actions discourage people from taking part in public life or criticizing the government.

Kenyan women human rights defenders (WHRD) are facing digital threats and online harassment due to their gender. They experienced this more than men, as their activism has challenged gender norms. These protests have happened since people started fighting against corruption and the shrinking civic space. WHRDs are important because they speak out and lead community efforts. A 2025 report mentioned that more than two-thirds of women activists, journalists, and human rights defenders have experienced online abuse, and 40 percent of them suffered real-life abuses because of those attacks online.

At the same time, technology has been used to limit people’s rights. A 2025 Amnesty International report says the government used social media and online tactics to silence young activists. These online threats and harassment make it harder for young people to organize and speak freely online without fear.

Conclusion

The cases of Uganda and Kenya show how civic space can slowly disappear. People face arrests, violence, and the fear of speaking out. Civil society groups lack money and support. Laws are used to punish protesters and silence critics. Some groups, like LGBTIQ+ communities and women human rights defenders, face even more danger, both online and offline. When civic space shrinks, democracy becomes weaker. Protecting civic space is important so people can speak freely, stay safe, and help shape their country’s future.

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