The UN’s human rights chief says that “powerful symbolic gestures” of reconciliation have been made in Sri Lanka, however other steps such as the release of land held by the military, reviewing the cases of security detainees, and resolving the issue of disappearances, need to move forward faster. 

United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein, made these comments while delivering a statement to the Human Rights Council’s 31st session on Thursday (10).

“This is the central message of transitional justice. If past human rights violations are not adequately addressed, grievances and other issues at the root of the past conflicts will continue to fester, and may even lead to their recurrence.” 
            
“There are important lessons in this respect for Sri Lanka, which is on its own journey toward accountability, reconciliation and durable peace,” he said.

He stated that the Sri Lankan government has taken important steps to reform the Constitution, revive independent institutions, and restore an environment for free expression and debate. 

“Powerful symbolic gestures of reconciliation have been made, for instance singing the national anthem in Tamil – although other steps, such as the release of land held by the military, reviewing the cases of security detainees, and resolving the issue of disappearances, need to move forward faster.” 
            
The High Commissioner said that the next months will be important, as the Government embarks on national consultations for the design of a comprehensive transitional justice process to implement fully the Council’s resolution.  

“It will be very important that this takes place in an environment free of surveillance and intimidation, so the voices of victims can be heard.” 

“Reports of violations must be promptly investigated and addressed. I look forward to reporting to you further on progress at the June session,” he added.