Colombo (LNW): The Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka (HRCSL) intends to publish guidelines on safeguarding human rights defenders and will consult further to finalise them, the Commission said in a statement dated Oct 16, 2023.
At a meeting on 10th October, civil society representatives discussed their concerns with the HRCSL, including threats to democratic spaces, harassment of human rights workers, economic and social rights, and challenges for disabled persons, especially regarding transport.
They urged for a more transparent commission, keen to collaborate with its thematic subcommittees.
Chaired by Justice L.T.B. Dehideniya, the HRCSL highlighted plans to reinstate thematic sub-committee systems with input from civil society experts.
The HRCSL encouraged continued partnership with civil society to bolster human rights in Sri Lanka.
