Publication CR-11-08-UL
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The period of August—December 2010 was a very political season in Uganda, with the NRM (National Resistance Movement) primaries in August, the nomination of presidential candidates in October, followed by the beginning of the campaigns for the February 2011 elections. Thus, as could be expected, there was a sharp increase in reports coming from the UNLocK participants relating to political factors. Whereas in the previous five months there were relatively few reports relating to state legitimacy, this issue, particularly incidents of corruption and election irregularities, were reported frequently by participants from August to December. There were fears expressed about the potential for election violence, especially considering the 2009 and 2010 riots in Kampala, which some felt could be reignited in the heat of the contest. However, although there were a few reports of violence and intimidation, this was less of an issue in the run-up to the election than many had anticipated, especially as compared with previous Ugandan elections.

Published March 1, 2010 | By Krista Hendry

Extractive companies have come under increasing scrutiny due to their operations in areas with weak or oppressive governments, impoverished communities and overall potential for conflict. Often blamed for creating or exacerbating conditions that could cause violence to erupt or human rights abuses to occur, extractive companies have become more aware of their potential impact on and within communities. To protect their employees, physical assets, ability to operate and international reputations, extractive companies assess not only their own security, but also that of neighboring communities and often the country as a whole.