HRC 57 - Interactive dialogue on the OHCHR report on Sri Lanka

United Nations Human Rights Council

57^th Session

Interactive dialogue on the OHCHR report on Sri Lanka

9 September 2024

EU statement

Mr. President,

The EU welcomes the OHCHR's report on the Human Rights situation in Sri Lanka.

The EU recognizes the challenges the country has addressed over these past two years, especially with regard to the financial crisis of 2022. We welcome the efforts underway to prepare for fair and democratic presidential elections on September 21st, and stand ready to support the process through an EU election observation mission.

While the EU takes good note of the planned creation of the "Commission for Truth, Unity and Reconciliation", we are looking forward to get a clear picture of its work. The EU remains concerned about the lack of progress on accountability and truth. The EU also stresses the need to preserve the civic space, and will follow the implementation and consequences of new and proposed laws, such as the "Anti Terrorism Bill" or the "Online Safety Bill", particularly regarding freedom of opinion and expression.

The EU encourages Sri Lanka to uphold freedom of opinion and expression, provide full space for civil society engagement and advance accountability and reconciliation. We wish the country peaceful, democratic elections.

High Commissioner / Madame Deputy High Commissioner,

What actions are needed to ensure the creation of the "Commission for Truth, Unity and Reconciliation" can succeed in bringing accountability and reconciliation to the country?

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