By: Isuru Parakrama
October 08, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka has reiterated its opposition to draft resolution 51/1 of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), rejecting any extension of the external evidence collection mechanism.
This was confirmed by Cabinet Spokesperson and Minister Vijitha Herath, who clarified that the country has not agreed to any provisions that enhance the powers of this mechanism.
During a media briefing following the weekly Cabinet meeting, Minister Herath explained that the decision came after Foreign Minister’s submissions regarding the ongoing 57th session of the UNHRC in Geneva.
The Cabinet of Ministers unanimously backed Sri Lanka’s stance to reject the resolution currently being discussed at the UNHRC.
Despite its firm opposition to specific international measures, Sri Lanka remains committed to addressing core human rights concerns, particularly reconciliation efforts, through domestic frameworks.
Minister Herath assured that the government would continue to engage in meaningful dialogue with the UNHRC and participate in regular human rights reviews.
Highlighting the country’s evolving political landscape, he referenced the recent presidential election and the upcoming formation of a new government.
He remarked, “Many aspects of the proposal align with the new administration’s policies, and we will ensure our position is clearly communicated in Geneva.”
However, he cautioned that while the new government is dedicated to safeguarding human rights, implementing these measures will take time.
Sri Lanka plans to present this balanced approach to the UNHRC at the final session of the current meeting.
