THE IMPACT OF CONFLICTS ON PARLIAMENTARY CULTURE IN UGANDA: THE BEHAVIOURAL CAUSES AND HUMAN DIGNITY.

Abstract

This paper looks at how conflicts affect the parliamentary culture in Uganda, focusing on behaviors that causes these conflicts and their effects on human dignity; a significant shift in the behaviors of parliamentarians due to ongoing conflicts and the persistent conflicts rooted in socio-political divisions and historical grievances that had led to polarized discourse and compromised the dignity of legislative processes hence resulting in a culture of mistrust and hostility, partisanship, and intimidation within parliament. This hostile environment not only stifles constructive debate and public confidence but also erodes respect for human dignity hence a negative beacon of democratic principles as evidenced by the prevalence of derogatory language, personal attacks, physical fights among legislators, as well as violations of procedures, point to a growing tendency of dehumanization that undermines the integrity of parliamentary processes. Using a mixed-methods approach that includes interviews, case studies, and ethnographic observations among parliamentarians and stakeholders, the research revealed that widespread conflicts harm legislative processes and reduce the dignity of representatives and their constituents. The results suggest that behavioral tensions often show up as mistrust, ineffective communication, and heated interactions, which obstruct good governance and democratic participation.  This research offers important insights for both policymakers and academics, stressing that dealing with behavioral conflicts is not only politically significant but also crucial for promoting human dignity and good governance, which ultimately influences the broader society, including healthcare results in Uganda.