“Fundamental is the need for governments to protect the space for citizens to claim their rights, organize, and express themselves.”

Ugandan engineer, politician, activist and diplomat

Winnie Byanyima is a Ugandan engineer, politician, human rights activist, feminist, and diplomat, known for her leadership in public life and international advocacy. She serves as the executive director of UNAIDS. Byanyima has built her career across government, diplomacy, and civil society. Her work is associated with human rights and gender equality, and she is widely recognized for speaking on issues of justice, public health, and the rights of women and marginalized communities.