UN Human Rights Council 60: UK Core Group Statement to introduce Item 2 Resolution on Sri Lanka
UK Core Group Statement to introduce Item 2 Resolution on Sri Lanka. Delivered by the UK's Permanent Representative to the WTO and UN, Kumar Iyer.
Thank you, Mr. President.
I have the honour to introduce draft resolution L1 Rev1 on behalf of the core group comprising Canada, Malawi, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and the United Kingdom.
Let me begin by paying tribute to Dr. Kasipillai Manoharan, who sadly passed away during this session. Dr. Manoharan was a tireless advocate for justice following the killing of his son, Ragihar, one of five students murdered in Trincomalee in 2006 in an emblematic human rights case. Dr Manoharan’s unwavering pursuit of truth and accountability, including his campaign at the United Nations and his presence at this Council, inspired many. His passing is a solemn reminder that too many family members have passed away without seeing justice for their loved ones, or without knowing the fate of those who were disappeared.
For those who remain - survivors, families, communities - their call for truth and justice grows ever more urgent.
Mr. President,
This draft resolution acknowledges the steps taken and the commendable commitments made by the current Sri Lankan Government to address long-standing human rights concerns, and the deep wounds left by decades of ethnic conflict. We urge the Government to translate these commitments into tangible action.
The exhumation of mass graves holds the potential to deliver long-awaited answers to families. It is imperative that these investigations are conducted in a manner that, ensures they support future identification efforts and uphold the dignity of victims.
The establishment of an independent prosecutor’s office would mark a vital step toward dismantling the entrenched impunity surrounding conflict-era violations and abuses.
The repeal and reform of key legislation in line with international standards, notably the Prevention of Terrorism Act and the Online Safety Act, would demonstrate a meaningful shift in approach;
And an end to the surveillance and intimidation of human rights defenders and families of the disappeared is essential to rebuild trust and foster reconciliation.
As these efforts progress, the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights continues to play a crucial role - through technical assistance, reporting, and its work to advance accountability.
We extend sincere thanks to the Sri Lankan delegation and to all delegations who have engaged constructively on this resolution. We have worked hard to strike the right balance between recognising progress and urging action on the challenges that remain.
We hope that all members of this Council will adopt this draft resolution without a vote.
Thank you.