August 12, Colombo (LNW): United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk is set to deliver a comprehensive report on the state of human rights in Sri Lanka at the opening of the 60th session of the UN Human Rights Council, scheduled to begin in Geneva on 8 September and continue until 8 October.
The report, titled “Situation of Human Rights in Sri Lanka,” will reflect the findings of Türk’s official visit to the country in June. His four-day tour included meetings with government officials, civil society actors, and survivors of past conflicts, as well as a visit to the site of the Chemmani mass graves in the Northern Province — a location linked to longstanding allegations of wartime atrocities. This site visit is expected to feature prominently in his presentation, adding further weight to calls for accountability and justice.
The report is anticipated to outline current human rights concerns, including issues related to post-conflict reconciliation, transitional justice, land rights, and civil liberties. Türk’s observations will likely shape the tone of the session’s broader discussions on Sri Lanka, particularly given increasing international scrutiny of the country’s progress on human rights commitments.
In a development that may intensify diplomatic pressure, both the United Kingdom and Canada are reportedly preparing to table a new resolution concerning Sri Lanka during the session. The proposed resolution is expected to address gaps in justice mechanisms, ongoing concerns about surveillance and harassment, and the need for credible reform.
Representing the Sri Lankan government at the Council will be Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath, who is scheduled to deliver the official national statement in response to the High Commissioner’s report and any subsequent proposals put forward by member states.
