Ugandan law student and social justice advocate Aloikin Praise Opoloje has been awarded the 2025 EU Human Rights Defenders Award by the Delegation of the European Union to Uganda.

Opoloje, a law student at Makerere University, was recognized for her bold activism and unwavering commitment to promoting human rights in Uganda. Her work has focused on fighting corruption, advocating for women’s rights and demanding accountability in public service.

On September 2nd 2024, she gained national attention for leading a peaceful, symbolic nude protest against corruption, calling for the resignation of Parliament Speaker Anita Among. Her protest, though controversial, highlighted widespread frustrations over poor service delivery and systemic injustice.

Born and raised in Pallisa district, Opoloje has often spoken about how her personal experiences, particularly with Uganda’s failing health and education systems, inspired her activism. Despite arrests and criticism, she has remained outspoken, insisting that her work is driven by the urgent need for change.

In a statement shared on X, the EU in Uganda wrote: “Hearty congratulations to Aloikin Praise Opoloje, winner of our 2025 EU Human Rights Defenders Award #EUHRDAward2025. Praise, a social justice advocate & feminist, is recognized for her outstanding contribution to the defence and promotion of human rights in Uganda.”

“I hope this award is followed with a deeper commitment on issues on Human Rights in the country. I hope this is a commitment from the @EUinUG to do even exceedingly more to the struggle against Human Rights Abuse in Uganda,” she shared on X following the announcement.

The EU Human Rights Defenders Award honours individuals who have made significant contributions to the protection and promotion of human rights, often at great personal risk.