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Sri Lanka : Sri Lanka reiterates rejection of UNHRC resolution 51/1

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Summary

Sri Lanka has reiterated its rejection of UN Human Rights Council Resolution 51/1, which was passed last year without the country's consent. The Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka to the UN in Geneva, Himalee Arunatilaka, said that the resolution will not help promote reconciliation in Sri Lanka and is a drain on resources. Sri Lanka is engaging with the UN human rights instruments and mechanisms constructively and a Cabinet Sub-Committee has been established to promote reconciliation and address issues such as missing persons, resettlement, and land. The government is also developing legislation on counterterrorism and a truth-seeking mechanism. The Permanent Representative noted that the country is facing economic challenges, but is still committed to promoting and protecting human rights.

Q&As

What position did Sri Lanka take in regards to the UNHRC Resolution 51/1?
Sri Lanka has reiterated to the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) its position that it rejects the Resolution 51/1 which was passed by the Council last year.

What steps is Sri Lanka taking to promote reconciliation among communities?
The Cabinet Sub-Committee has identified issues to be addressed expeditiously, including, developing a truth-seeking mechanism, drafting a new counter-terrorism law, establishing an office for overseas Sri Lankans, preparing a Rapid Development Plan for the North and the East, and addressing matters related in particular to missing persons, resettlement and land.

What measures are in place to strengthen democratic governance in Sri Lanka?
The 21stamendment to the Constitution of Sri Lanka, passed by Parliament in October 2022, provides for further strengthening of democratic governance, independent oversight of key institutions, the composition of the Constitutional Council and independent commissions.

How has the economic vulnerability of Sri Lanka been affected in the face of global recession?
Sri Lanka's economic vulnerability has increased in the face of global recession, conflict and turmoil.

In what ways is Sri Lanka engaging with the UN Human Rights Instruments and Mechanisms?
Sri Lanka remains open to discussion with the Council, Special Procedures and Treaty Bodies, and continue to believe in the value of constructive engagement. Sri Lanka also looks forward to a meaningful dialogue when its 6th Periodic Report under the ICCPR is taken up for Review later this month.

AI Comments

👍 This article clearly outlines the Sri Lankan government's commitment to upholding human rights and its dedication to the UNHRC. It is great to see that the Sri Lankan government is taking steps to ensure that its citizens' rights are protected.

👎 This article fails to address the underlying issues facing the Sri Lankan people. It is concerning that the government is rejecting UNHRC resolution 51/1 without providing any viable alternatives to addressing these issues.

AI Discussion

Me: It's about Sri Lanka's rejection of the UNHRC Resolution 51/1. It outlines some of the steps Sri Lanka is taking to promote reconciliation and strengthen the rule of law. It also highlights the country's commitment to constructive engagement with the UN Human Rights Council.

Friend: That's interesting. What do you think are the implications of Sri Lanka's rejection of the resolution?

Me: I think it shows that Sri Lanka is determined to chart its own path in terms of its human rights policies and that it is willing to take a stand against what it perceives as interference from outside entities. It also shows that Sri Lanka is taking steps to promote reconciliation and strengthen the rule of law, which is positive. However, it could also mean that the country is putting itself at odds with the international community and the UN, which could potentially lead to a decrease in international support and assistance.

Action items

Research the UNHRC Resolution 51/1 and its implications for Sri Lanka.
Learn more about the domestic institutions for reconciliation and accountability in Sri Lanka.
Follow the progress of the Cabinet Sub-Committee established to promote reconciliation among different communities in Sri Lanka.

Technical terms

UNHRC: United Nations Human Rights Council
OHCHR: Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights
UPR: Universal Periodic Review
ICCPR: International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights
COPE: Committee on Public Enterprises