UN High Commissioner for Human Rights meets Speaker and Party Leaders

The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, who is currently on an official visit to Sri Lanka, paid a courtesy call on the  Speaker of Parliament, Dr. Jagath Wickramaratne, yesterday (24) at the Parliament premises. The Secretary General of Parliament, Kushani Rohanadeera and Assistant Secretary General of Parliament, Hansa Abeyrathne, were also present during the meeting, Parliament's Department of Communications said. 

During this cordial discussion, the Speaker warmly welcomed the High Commissioner to the Parliament of Sri Lanka. The Speaker emphasized that the recently held elections in Sri Lanka were conducted in a free, fair, and peaceful manner without incidents of violence, reflecting the people's firm rejection of divisive, racial politics. He stated that true reconciliation must begin from the heart of every individual, and that the mandate given by the people reflects their aspiration for unity. The Speaker further noted that the present government is committed to fostering meaningful reconciliation among communities, eradicating bribery and corruption, and upholding democracy and transparency.

He also highlighted the progressive inclusivity of the current Parliament, noting the election of the highest number of women parliamentarians in Sri Lanka’s history, as well as the election of a visually impaired Member of Parliament.

The High Commissioner, Mr. Volker Türk, commended Sri Lanka’s ongoing efforts, stating that the process of uniting communities, building trust, and achieving reconciliation is indeed a difficult task, especially in a global context where many nations are drifting in the opposite direction. He stressed that human rights are the foundation upon which every individual is recognized and valued without discrimination, and the United Nations continues to work towards this goal.

Following the meeting with the Speaker, the High Commissioner held a separate discussion with the Leaders of the political parties representing Parliament. Political party leaders presented their perspectives on the socio-political situation in the country and the challenges faced by the people they represent. They also expressed views on Sri Lanka’s human rights context, reconciliation process, and the need for legislative amendments. The party leaders conveyed their hope that the United Nations would continue to provide the necessary technical support and expertise to help Sri Lanka achieve lasting reconciliation and sustainable peace.

The discussion was attended by the Hon. Leader of the House of Parliament, Minister Bimal Rathnayaka, Hon. Leader of the Opposition in Parliament, Sajith Premadasa along with other Leaders of Political Parties represented in Parliament. The UN Resident Coordinator in Sri Lanka, Mr. Marc-André Franche, the Chief of the Asia-Pacific Region of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Mr. Rory Mungoven and a group UN representatives were also present.