Sri Lanka’s co-sponsor countries at the United Nations have emphasized that it is important to uphold the rule of law in Sri Lanka.
Also, the concerned countries have pointed out the importance of replacing Sri Lanka’s Anti-Terrorism Act with a law that is in line with the international framework.
A group of Sri Lanka co-sponsor countries comprising Canada, Malawi, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Britain and the United States have reported their position on Sri Lanka at the United Nations.
Sri Lanka’s Pledge
Britain’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Simon Manley, submitted the report. The statement said it welcomed Sri Lanka’s commitments to protect human rights, including those belonging to all religious and ethnic groups.
However, the countries concerned have also expressed concerns about harsh reactions to peaceful protests. They also stressed that Sri Lanka should protect the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and association and freedom of expression.
They said that civil society has an important role to play in promoting the protection of human rights, and they pointed out the importance of securing space for the important work of civil society, including in future legislation.
A solution to corruption
They also mentioned that elections play an important role in maintaining the confidence of Sri Lankans. Co-sponsor countries have urged Sri Lankan authorities to address long-standing corruption.
The Government of Sri Lanka pointed to the pledges it made to the Council in September, emphasizing the importance of transitional justice, including promoting truth and accountability, with the goal of reconciliation and accountability for all communities.