• The scale and type of this accountability work requires adequate time, financial resources and support by states

By Kelum Bandara 

Acting UN High Commissioner for Human Tights Nada Al-Nashif, in her update on Sri Lanka, said her office conducted proactive and analytical work regarding accountability issues in Sri Lanka and asked the UNHRC to reinforce her work in this regard.

She said the team established by her office to advance accountability pursuant to Resolution 46/1, paragraph 6, made important progress. It has conducted proactive investigative and analytical work, including in relation to gender and child-related violations, and is consolidating information and evidence collected by the United Nations and other bodies and entities into a repository.

She said it will assist future accountability initiatives.  

“OHCHR will continue to place victims at the heart of this work.  This includes seeking to minimise security risks faced by those who speak out about past violations.

As the High Commissioner noted to the 49th session of the Council, the scale and type of this accountability work requires adequate time, financial resources and support by States. I therefore urge this Council to ensure that this important work is appropriately reinforced. 

Impunity remains a central obstacle to the rule of law, reconciliation and Sri Lanka’s sustainable peace and development. This impunity continues to embolden those committing human rights violations, has created fertile ground for corruption and the abuse of power, as well as contributing to the present economic crisis.   
The mandate granted by this Council under resolution 46/1 – to continue monitoring the human rights situation and pursue accountability for crimes under international law - is now more important than ever, and responds to the broad-based aspirations for change being expressed by Sri Lankans from all communities,” she said.

• Impunity remains a central obstacle to the rule of law, reconciliation and Sri Lanka’s sustainable peace and development