UNITED NATIONS HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL

60^th session

Interactive Dialogue on report of OHCHR on Sri Lanka

8 September 2025

EU statement

Mr. President,

The European Union welcomes the OHCHR´s report on the human rights situation in Sri Lanka. 

As the High Commissioner has said after his visit, the country’s new government has a historic opportunity to break from the past. We welcome that its leadership pledges a fresh direction, including delivering justice for victims, restoring the rule of law, and eliminating discrimination. It now needs a comprehensive roadmap to translate these commitments into results. The European Union supports this call, reflected in the present report. 

The European Union recalls the increasing need for transitional justice. We acknowledge the government’s efforts, including the initiative to establish an independent public prosecution office. However, we remain concerned over the lack of significant progress on accountability and justice for the victims, especially with respect to the many cases of dead and still missing persons. This situation needs to be addressed urgently and with decisive commitment. Accountability is central to the rule of law and for guarantees of non-repetition. 

The European Union monitors the human rights situation and remains concerned about the continued use of the Prevention of Terrorism Act, while recognizing on-going steps towards repealing this legislation. We recall the importance of legal and institutional reforms as well as the need to bring new legislation fully in line with international human rights obligations. 

The European Union stands ready to support Sri Lanka in implementing transformative reforms and strengthening the protection of human rights, welcoming its continued cooperation with the United Nations human rights system.

Thank you.