Sri Lanka Reasserts Sovereignty and Rejects External Human Rights Mechanisms at UNHRC
Sri Lanka has reaffirmed its rejection of UN Resolutions 46/1, 51/1, and 57/1, along with the external evidence gathering mechanism during the UNHRC’s 58th Session. The country advocates for national ownership in addressing human rights concerns and emphasizes the importance of gradual reforms for effective change.
Sri Lanka has firmly reiterated its rejection of UN Resolutions 46/1, 51/1, and 57/1 along with the external evidence gathering mechanism established by the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC). This reaffirmation follows the Oral Update delivered by the High Commissioner for Human Rights during the council’s 58th Session. The nation asserts that genuine progress towards transformative change can only be achieved through national ownership and gradual reforms.
Ambassador Himalee Subashini Arunatilaka expressed deep concern over the inconsistent application of human rights principles by the Council, stating that this inconsistency has led to a diminished trust in the human rights framework. Such a decline compromises the credibility of efforts aimed at upholding human rights globally.
Sri Lanka maintains its opposition to country-specific resolutions that do not involve the agreement of the country in question. The Ambassador highlighted that these intrusive resolutions contribute to the perception of bias and undermine the principle of state sovereignty, asserting, “Sri Lanka has consistently spoken out against country specific resolutions that do not have the concurrence of the country concerned.”
The government’s statement emphasizes that the external evidence gathering mechanism, which has been set up based on these resolutions, represents an inappropriate extension of the Council’s authority. It contradicts the fundamental principles of impartiality and objectivity, particularly as such mechanisms presuppose the fidelity of Sri Lanka’s own judicial processes.
Additionally, concerns regarding the financial implications of this external mechanism are shared amongst several nations, particularly given the current budgetary constraints faced by the United Nations. Sri Lanka reiterates its commitment to addressing human rights challenges through domestic avenues, ensuring these processes are credible and independent within its constitutional framework.
The Sri Lankan government aims to prioritize economic growth inclusively, ensuring that benefits are distributed equitably among all societal sectors. Emphasis has been placed on the rule of law, transparency, and accountability as essential components for fostering socio-economic development.
Sri Lanka is committed to protecting the democracy and human rights of all its citizens, while also planning to expand upon the proposed truth and reconciliation commission aimed at addressing past acts of violence linked to racism and religious extremism. The government’s economic strategy includes initiatives such as eradicating rural poverty and the ‘Clean Sri Lanka’ initiative, promoting sustainable development and social cohesion.
In summary, Sri Lanka’s government has reiterated its steadfast rejection of several UN resolutions and external human rights mechanisms, emphasizing the necessity of national sovereignty. It commits to resolving human rights issues through domestic efforts, with a focus on inclusive economic growth and reconciliation. The nation aims to uphold the rule of law while ensuring transparent processes that foster sustainable peace and prosperity for all citizens.
Original Source: www.adaderana.lk
