UNHRC Renews Push for Sri Lanka War Crimes Probe, Sparking Sovereignty Debate
The UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) has reignited its long-standing campaign against Sri Lanka, with Commissioner Volker Turk pushing for an independent judicial mechanism to probe alleged war crimes. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka's government is focusing on anti-corruption measures and development initiatives, while urging Tamil politicians to support its efforts.
In a significant development, UNHRC Commissioner Volker Turk has called for a dedicated judicial mechanism, led by an independent special counsel, to investigate human rights violations in Sri Lanka. This comes as the UNHRC revives its 16-year campaign against the country.
During his visit, Turk visited a mass grave site in Chemani, a poignant reminder of the past. Tamil activists used this site to demand 'independent' inquiries with western involvement. However, the government of Sri Lanka has consistently rejected such external mechanisms, favouring domestic legal frameworks.
In a show of support, 43 member states of the UNHRC expressed solidarity with Sri Lanka, emphasizing its sovereignty and opposing external mechanisms to address human rights. This stance was echoed by China, which urged the international community to back Sri Lanka's sovereign right to chart its own development path. Conversely, the UK called for investigations in line with international standards.
At home, Sri Lanka's Minister of Justice and National Integration, Harshana Nanayakkara, has called upon Tamil politicians to refrain from making inflammatory racist statements and assist the government in delivering development needs. This plea comes after Tamil voters in Sri Lanka's northern and eastern provinces overwhelmingly elected candidates advocating inclusive development rights in the 2025 general elections.
The UNHRC's renewed push for an international investigation into Sri Lanka's past conflicts has sparked a debate on sovereignty and accountability. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka's government continues to focus on domestic development and anti-corruption efforts, seeking unity and support from all communities.
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