SEVERAL COUNTRIES URGE SL TO ADOPT CLEAR ROADMAP

Numerous countries urged Sri Lanka to adopt a clear roadmap to implement resolution 30/1 at the 34th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) yesterday. Statements made by several nations during the session reiterated that while the progress made by the country was applauded, Sri Lanka needed to adopt a clear roadmap for the implementation of transitional justice mechanisms.

Concerns were also raised regarding the slow pace of the transitional justice process with countries urging the government to adopt a new anti-terrorism legal framework, promptly operationalize the Office of Missing Persons, allocate resources and appoint the Commissioner, replace the prevention of terrorism act, accelerate the prosecution or release of detainees and tackle remaining issues such as the return of the land confiscated by the military.

Co- sponsoring the resolution with Sri Lanka, the US, UK, Montenegro and Macedonia welcomed the steps taken by the government but once again reiterated that more needed to be done by the government. The United Stated said that even though Sri Lanka had taken important steps toward implementing its key human rights, justice, and reconciliation commitments it had hoped to see greater and more sustained progress over the past 18 months. The United Kingdom too commended the positive steps taken by the country but stressed that much remained to be done.“sri Lanka should provide determined leadership to deliver fully on the commitments made when co-sponsoring resolution 30/1 and develop a comprehensive and time-bound implementation strategy.”

Meanwhile co- sponsor Montenegro said the full implementation of the Council’s resolution on promoting reconciliation, accountability and human rights has remained a key challenge towards a comprehensive transformation of Sri Lanka.

The former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia welcoming the reform process taking place in Sri Lanka encouraged the efforts being made to achieve lasting reconciliation.

Meanwhile, Norway commended Sri Lanka for its political commitment to reform and justice, and encouraged the country to maintain and institutionalise the momentum of resolution. It emphasised the need to return the lands held by the military and replace the prevention of terrorism act.

Russia recognized Sri Lanka’s openness for dialogue with the United Nations human rights mechanisms and its constructive approach to the implementation of resolution. “It was for Sri Lanka to define its own priorities and areas where the support of the international community was needed’’ it said.