A new report on Sri Lanka’s human rights situation has been jointly submitted to the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) by a group of countries led by the United Kingdom. The report was presented during the 58th session of the UNHRC on March 3, with Canada, Malawi, Montenegro, and North Macedonia co-sponsoring the submission.
The report evaluates the political and human rights developments in Sri Lanka, including the peaceful elections held last year and the actions of the current government. It acknowledges positive steps taken by Sri Lanka, such as returning land to rightful owners, promoting reconciliation, removing roadblocks, and allowing communities in the North and East to hold memorial events.
Additionally, the report welcomes government efforts to amend the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) but stresses that such reforms must align with international legal standards.
Meanwhile, the Sri Lankan government also presented its own oral report at the Geneva session, detailing its commitment to a new political culture, economic and social development, and the protection of democracy and human rights for all citizens. The government reaffirmed its stance on maintaining stability while ensuring human rights reforms continue in line with global expectations.
