UNHRC chief expresses concern over lack of progress on accountability and reforms in SL (VIDEO)

COLOMBO (News 1st) - A report issued reads that, ahead of the 37th session of the UN Human Rights Council, the UN Human Rights chief states that Sri Lanka has not yet demonstrated willingness to address impunity in the country. Zeid Ra'ad Al Hussein, in his report, stated that he reiterates his appreciation for the constructive engagement of the government of Sri Lanka with OHCHR and UN Human Rights Mechanisms since 2015. According to the report, the fulfillment of the transitional justice commitments made under Human Rights Council Resolution 30/1 has been virtually stalled for more than a year. The Human Rights Commissioner expressed concern over the lack of progress on accountability and reforms. The report further says that the continuing allegations of torture and surveillance and the lack of sufficient progress in implementing critical confidence-building measures, such as the release of land, repeal of the PTA and the solution to the pending cases under the PTA, have antagonised key constituencies that could be instrumental to the governments reform efforts. The High Commissioner, through his report, urges the Human Rights Council to continue to play a critical role in encouraging progress in accountability and reconciliation in Sri Lanka. The Report further calls on member states to explore other avenues, including the application of universal jurisdiction, that could foster accountability. Amnesty International, reflecting on the UN HRC report ,says though Sri Lanka continues to pursue commitments made in 2015 to the United Nations (UN) Human Rights Council, progress of implementing them has been slow and there is evidence of backsliding. https://www.facebook.com/NewsfirstSL/videos/1853963204663929/