UN Rights Chief express concerns over Human Rights situation in Sri Lanka

The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet expressed severe concerns about Sri Lanka’s human rights record, particularly recently introduced counter-terrorism regulations under which hundreds of individuals are detained.

“In Sri Lanka, I am concerned by further Government measures perceived as targeting Muslims, and by the harassment of Tamils, including in the context of commemoration events for those who died at the end of the war,” Ms Bachelet said during the opening of the UN Human Rights Council’s 47th session in Geneva.

She also noted that she is oncerned that recent appointments to the Office of Missing Persons and Office for Reparations, and steps to discourage investigations into past crimes, are further undermining victims' trust.

“Recent counter-terrorism regulations – which include the listing and/or prohibition of more than 300 Tamil and Muslim groups and individuals for alleged support of terrorism – will also not advance reconciliation,”

“Regulations now permit the arbitrary administrative detention of people for up to two years, without trial for the purposes of de-radicalisation. I also note a continuing series of deaths in police custody and in the context of police encounters with alleged criminal gangs. A thorough, prompt and independent investigation should be conducted,”

The Rights Chief assured to continue to engage with the Government, and update the Council further at the September session, including on progress in implementing the new accountability mandate.