US highlights SL as a country of particular concern with regard to HR

US highlights SL as a country of particular concern with regard to HR

Sunday, July 7, 2013

The United States has once again highlighted Sri Lanka as a country of particular concern with regard to human rights.

US Ambassador to the UN Human Rights Council Eileen Donahoe made this statement addressing the 23rd session of the Human Rights Council in Geneva.

During the general debate on Human rights situations requiring the attention of the UNHRC, the United States identified a number of countries. Speaking on Sri Lanka, Donahoe had emphasised on the need to set a visit date and provide access to special procedures.

She went on to note that violations of the rights to freedom of expression, association and peaceful assembly continue to take place in Sri Lanka.

Donahoe also noted that reprisals against human rights defenders, members of civil society and journalists also take place within the country.
Addressing the UNHRC the US ambassador had noted that there have been no credible investigations or prosecutions for attacks on journalists and media outlets.

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  Chief Justice Mohan Peiris says that Sri Lanka is capable of teaching the European Union and the United States about human rights.

  The Chief Justice made this comment at an event held to declare open the newly constructed Court Complex in Bakamuna, Dambulla.

  'If was after the second world war that the European Union, the United States of America and other countries spoke about human rights. They only realised about human rights after the war in the 1940s. What is our background? This country boasts of a history dating back to 2500 years. Human rights concern was spoken about since then. We are a country that can teach them about human rights We may go wrong on certain instances but we should remember that we are a proud community with a heritage of 2500 years.'

  Speaking further the Chief Justice said that if the people are to enjoy the peace dividends everyone should respect the rule of law.

  'This is an opportunity for us to move towards a new era. If we are to enjoy the dividends of peace, we should respect the rule of law. We cannot move ignore the law. The law is not a challenge for us."
  "It should not be a burden. Law is a identified as a mechanism that helps the lifestyles of communities. There is nothing more to it.'