September 08, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka has firmly opposed any external initiatives to investigate alleged human rights violations linked to the country’s long-standing conflict with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), reaffirming its stance in favour of a home-grown approach to justice and reconciliation.
Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath, addressing the 60th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in Geneva today (08), stated that the current administration would not accept foreign-led inquiries or mechanisms. Delivering remarks on behalf of the Sri Lankan government, he underlined the country’s sovereignty and its commitment to pursuing accountability through domestic channels only.
Minister Herath was responding to a report tabled earlier in the day by the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, which scrutinised Sri Lanka’s progress on human rights issues. The report renewed calls for an international judicial process and urged the establishment of an independent body to examine alleged war-time atrocities and violations of international humanitarian law.
In his address, Minister Herath called on the international community to recognise the steps already taken by the present administration, led by the National People’s Power (NPP), to foster peace, inclusivity, and long-term national development. He also appealed to the Human Rights Council to grant Sri Lanka more time to deliver on its pledges, particularly those concerning accountability and institutional reform.
Since taking office, the NPP-led government has introduced measures aimed at promoting reconciliation and safeguarding civil liberties, according to the Minister. However, he emphasised that the path to meaningful reform must be navigated on Sri Lanka’s own terms, free from external imposition.
The High Commissioner’s report, however, took a critical view of the progress made so far. It noted that repeated assurances from successive Sri Lankan governments regarding justice and the rule of law have yet to translate into substantive outcomes. The report urged the current administration to demonstrate genuine political will and deliver tangible results.
Among its key recommendations, the UN report called for a special independent judicial mechanism, constitutional reforms, and the repeal of the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA). It also advocated for the release of individuals detained under the PTA, the return of military-occupied land in the northern and eastern provinces, and comprehensive security sector reform.
The report is the culmination of the High Commissioner’s recent visit to Sri Lanka, during which he held discussions with government officials, civil society representatives, religious leaders, and members of political parties. His findings highlight ongoing concerns about structural barriers to justice, as well as the need for broader legal and institutional changes.
The Human Rights Council session in Geneva, which began today, is expected to continue until October 08, during which time Sri Lanka’s human rights record will remain under close international scrutiny.
