Right to Life Human Rights Center is a non-profit organization working for a torture-free, human rights-assured, peaceful and democratic Sri Lanka. For this, the organization leads advocacy campaigns mainly through grassroots networks such as Human Rights First Aid Centers, Sri Lanka Collective Against Torture, Journalists for Rights and Lawyers for Rights. We study the issues, report with evidence and communicate them via our media channels targeting the general public as well as policymakers. Also, Right to Life Human Rights Center tests practical actions with people to solve their problems.
PROJECTS
Welcome to our projects & fundraising section, where we showcase the impactful initiatives of our organization. Committed to promoting and protecting human rights worldwide, we actively engage in a range of projects that address pressing issues affecting vulnerable communities. Through advocacy, education, and emeate lasting change apowerment, we strive to crnd ensure the fundamental rights and dignity of every individual. Explore our projects to discover how we are working towards a more equitable and just society for all.
MEDIA AND ADVOCACY
Welcome to the Media and Advocacy section of R2L. Here, we strive to raise awareness, inspire action, and drive positive change in the fight for human rights around the world. Through engaging media content, impactful campaigns, and collaborative partnerships, we aim to amplify marginalized voices and shed light on pressing issues. Join us in our mission to promote equality, justice, and dignity for all, as we believe that together, we can create a more inclusive and compassionate society.
LEGAL INTERVENTION
Welcome to the Legal Unit of R2L. Here, we are committed to upholdinga and defending the fundamental rights and freedoms of all individuals. Our dedicated team of lawyers and human rights defenders works tirelessly to promote justice, equality, and accountability for human rights violations. Through our legal interventions, we strive to provide legal aid, support victims and survivors, and advocate for systemic change. Explore our resources, stay informed, and join us in our pursuit of a more just and equitable world.
NETWORKS
Welcome! We are dedicated to upholding the fundamental right to life for all individuals. We collaborate closely with esteemed international and local partners who share our vision for justice and equality. We work hand-in-hand with partners in various communities to promote and protect human rights on a grassroots level. Together, we strive to create a world where every person’s right to life is respected and safeguarded.
NEWS, ARTICLES & EVENTS
- Upon receiving information about a threat to an individual or a group’s rights, HRFACs promptly establish a supportive connection with the affected parties, demonstrating social solidarity.
- To gain a comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by the individuals or groups involved, and to provide education on available solutions, support, and protection that the center can offer.
- Assisting in the preparation of complaints, affidavits, and other necessary legal documents as needed, with the consent of the affected individuals.
- Participating in investigations initiated by various institutions, supporting the victims, and monitoring the performance of these institutions.
- Informing affected individuals about governmental and non-governmental organizations that can provide the necessary legal, medical, and psychosocial support for future action.
- Conducting programs that offer essential training for individuals working within HRFACs, nurturing human rights defenders within the community.
- Designing and implementing educational programs tailored to the community’s needs, providing a fundamental understanding of human rights.
- Monitoring, documenting, and reporting human rights violations occurring within the community.
- Promptly notifying governmental and non-governmental human rights organizations about any violations and mobilizing their support.
- Publishing videos, books, and other materials highlighting human rights violations to foster societal education and awareness.
- Initiating preliminary discussions about forming a human rights defender group with any interested organization or group in the area (with a minimum attendance of 10 individuals).
- Following agreement within the group, establishing a human rights first aid society, with at least 5 members expressing interest.
- Providing comprehensive training to volunteers who wish to become human rights defenders, starting with educating them about human rights and fundamental rights, legal actions for violations, and document preparation.
- Securing a permanent location within the community (such as a space in a community center or a designated room) for conducting activities, and organizing a group of volunteers to operate at least 3 days a week.
- Organizing publicity programs to raise awareness among residents about the services provided by the Human Rights First Aid Society (e.g., distributing leaflets, and displaying posters).
- Forming a regional committee comprising journalists, lawyers, and representatives from civil society to establish connections with regional offices, police stations, and government and non-governmental organizations.
- Interested parties can reach out for further information or to contribute to the establishment of such centers (contact us).
During the time of our independence, we stood among the most influential nations in Asia. However, today, we face unprecedented challenges that cannot be easily overcome. Certain governments and officials post-independence bear responsibility for the present state of affairs. Simultaneously, as citizens, we must acknowledge our role in allowing the country to reach this point.
It is our duty, as responsible citizens, to take decisive action against officials engaged in illegal activities, including crime, violence, bribery, and corruption. Whenever we witness or hear of any unlawful conduct, we must act swiftly.
Let us stand up and take action. We have various state mechanisms to which we can submit complaints or reports.
Rights at Risk?Take a Stand Now!
Submit a complaint about a violation of your fundamental rights to the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka. The complaint can be made by going to the main office in Colombo or a regional office. Complaints can also be submitted online through the website www.hrcsl.lk . Also, call the 1996 hotline or 0112505580, 0112505581, or 0112505582.
You can file a fundamental rights petition related to a violation of fundamental rights to the Supreme Court through a lawyer within 30 days after the violation. If you are a low-income earner, your complaint can be forwarded to the Chief Justice or the Bar Association of Sri Lanka through an affidavit requesting to file a case in the Supreme Court.
Complaints may be submitted to the National Police Commission regarding illegal acts including non-acceptance, distortion, or non-investigation of complaints by a police officer, physical or mental abuse including assault, verbal abuse, illegal arrest and detention, or false prosecutions by police. Online complaints can be submitted through its website npc.gov.lk, even anonymously. Also, you have the opportunity to contact the National Police Commission by calling 1960 hotline or 0112166500 at any time.
You can complain directly to the Inspector General of Police regarding illegal actions by police officers. Complaints can be made online through the extension “Public Complaints to the Inspector General” on the www.police.lk website. Apart from that, complaints can be made to the “www.telligp.police.lk”.
Submit an information request to any government or affiliated institute under the Right to Information Act to get the information you require.
Many such organizations can be useful to you. Human Rights First Aid Centers (HRFACs) are operating throughout the country to assist you in getting help from them.