EU General Comment - HRC60 - Promoting Reconciliation, Accountability, and Human Rights in Sri Lanka

EU General Comment - HRC60 - Promoting Reconciliation, Accountability, and Human Rights in Sri Lanka

UN Human Rights Council

60^th Session

L.1 - General Comment

Promoting Reconciliation, Accountability, and Human Rights in Sri Lanka

EU General Comment

Mr. President,

I have the honor to speak on behalf of the EU Member States that are members of the Human Rights Council. This general comment has been agreed by the EU as a whole.

The European Union welcomes the efforts of the Government of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka during the past 12 months to initiate and advance comprehensive reforms. We will continue to support Sri Lanka's path in order to enable a sustainable economic recovery, lasting reconciliation and inclusive prosperity and growth, in line with its international human rights obligations and commitments

The challenges that lay ahead are still manifold, especially regarding accountability. Significant progress on accountability and justice for the victims are decisive for Sri Lanka's efforts towards a united and reconciled country. The OHCHR Sri Lanka Accountability Project focuses on ensuring that reconciliation and accountability are fulfilled and can thus create a strong foundation for a peaceful and just society that can thrive in the long term.

We welcome the renewal of the mandate and would like to thank the core group for its considered and constructive draft. We recognize also the importance many stakeholders have attached to the OHCHR Sri Lanka Accountability Project. We would like to keep engaging with Sri Lanka's government on how the project can best support them, and vice versa. The EU stands ready to continue its support to Sri Lanka on this path, underlining that justice and accountability are essential for lasting reconciliation and sustainable peace. We will join the consensus and, should a vote be called, will vote yes and urge others to do the same.

Thank you.