UK remains concerned about human rights in North Sri Lanka Question Asked by Lord Tyler-11 Jun 2014 To ask Her Majesty’s Government what recent assessment they have made of the human rights situation in Sri Lanka; and what recent discussions they have had with the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights about the United Nations Human Rights Council resolution on Sri Lanka of 27 March.[HL16] 11 Jun 2014 : Column WA10 The Senior Minister of State, Department for Communities and Local Government & Foreign and Commonwealth Office (Baroness Warsi): We remain concerned about the human rights situation in Sri Lanka especially in the North. Our concerns include the continued intimidation and harassment of human rights defenders (HRDs) and activists, attacks on religious minorities, and the protection of the right to freedom of expression and opinion. Through our Mission in Geneva, we maintain regular contact with the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights. Following the adoption of the resolution, we are engaging with international partners to ensure the implementation of the resolution's international investigation into violations of international law by both sides during Sri Lanka’s conflict. We believe that progress on accountability, human rights and reconciliation is important in establishing enduring peace and reconciliation in Sri Lanka. Such progress will ensure Sri Lanka can reach its full potential as a strong and prosperous nation. UK remains concerned about human rights in North  14 June 2014 The United Kingdom has reiterated concerns over the human rights situation in Sri Lanka, highlighting the North, in a statement in parliament earlier this week. Speaking as the Global Summit to End Sexual Violence was under way, Senior Minister of State Baroness Warsi stated in parliament, “We remain concerned about the human rights situation in Sri Lanka especially in the North. Our concerns include the continued intimidation and harassment of human rights defenders (HRDs) and activists, attacks on religious minorities, and the protection of the right to freedom of expression and opinion.” The statement came as Sri Lanka refused to endorse the British-led initiative to end sexual violence in conflict. She was responding to a question raised by Lord Tyler, over the British government’s recent assessment of the situation in Sri Lanka. Speaking on the upcoming UNHRC inquiry into Sri Lanka, Warsi continued, “Through our Mission in Geneva, we maintain regular contact with the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights. Following the adoption of the resolution, we are engaging with international partners to ensure the implementation of the resolution's international investigation into violations of international law by both sides during Sri Lanka’s conflict. We believe that progress on accountability, human rights and reconciliation is important in establishing enduring peace and reconciliation in Sri Lanka. Such progress will ensure Sri Lanka can reach its full potential as a strong and prosperous nation.”