The Hon. (Dr.) Harini Amarasuriya – Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education

¶ 01 Hon. Speaker, the Answer is as follows:

¶ 02 01. Pursuant to Human Rights Council Resolution 57/1, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights issued the Report on the Situation of Human Rights in Sri Lanka (A/HRC/60/21) (Annex A). The Government of Sri Lanka submitted observations on the advanced draft on 06 August 2025 following inter-agency consultations (Annex B). These observations, provided upon OHCHR’s request, were to demonstrate cooperation and ensure the Government’s views were recorded despite rejecting HRC Resolution 57/1. The response was published on the OHCHR website.

¶ 03 During the Interactive Dialogue on Sri Lanka at the 60th Session of the Human Rights Council, the Hon. Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism stated the Government’s position, outlined progress, and the way forward (Annex C).

¶ 04 [Order. The Hon. Deputy Speaker took the Chair.]

¶ 05 02. At the Interactive Dialogue, the Government acknowledged the Report recognizes positive developments as well as problematic concerns (Annex C). The Government focused on the High Commissioner’s identified opportunity to “implement transformative reforms.” Following his June visit, he highlighted “potential for real change representing all segments of Sri Lankan society” and the Government’s “genuine openness.” The Government urged OHCHR and the HRC to seize this opportunity and provide the necessary space to advance rights and well-being of all Sri Lankans through national processes.

¶ 06 Sri Lanka observes that external initiatives would impede ongoing national efforts and unnecessarily polarize communities. Accordingly, the Government does not agree with conclusions and recommendations in the Report calling for international action (Annex B).

¶ 07 03. As stated, the Government does not agree with international intervention. We believe external actions will exacerbate divisions and jeopardize national processes and genuine initiatives underway. Therefore, we oppose external mechanisms.

¶ 08 We are committed to advancing accountability through credible domestic processes. Steps are being taken to strengthen institutions and mechanisms, ensuring their independence with enhanced financial, human, and technical capacity.

¶ 09 A decision has been taken to establish an Independent Public Prosecutor’s Office to further strengthen justice delivery. A Cabinet-appointed Committee (May 2024) is discussing its establishment. On 04 August 2025, Cabinet decided to expand the Committee, obtain more expert assistance, and consult the public and the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka.

¶ 10 A process has been initiated to establish a Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC). It will be established following consideration of the proposed draft law and stakeholder consultations.

¶ 11 We will continue to cooperate with the international community, especially for capacity-building and technical assistance on mutually agreed areas.

¶ 12 Annex D: Sri Lanka’s document at HRC 60; Annex E: Speech by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk; Annex F: Sri Lanka’s statement as the country concerned during consideration of draft resolution HRC 60/L.1/Rev.1.

¶ 13 I table Annexes A–F.