On this International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, the Right to Life Human Rights Centre reaffirms its unwavering commitment to stand with survivors of torture, to advocate for justice and accountability, and to push for meaningful structural reforms that prevent future abuses. This day, observed annually on June 26, was proclaimed by the […]
The Right to Life Human Rights Centre solemnly observed the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture on June 25, 2025, by organising a high-level intellectual forum at Tulip Hall, BMICH. Titled “Beyond the Law: The Hidden Darkness in Sri Lanka’s Anti-Torture Justice,” the event brought together survivors, legal experts, institutional representatives, and human rights activists
Victims of Torture with Call for Independent Investigations and Structural Reforms Read More »
Colombo, June 18, 2025 – A pivotal press briefing was held today at Hotel Janaki in Colombo, commemorating 30 years since Sri Lanka’s Torture Act came into force. The event drew attention to the critical need for renewed reforms, as speakers condemned the persistent use of torture by state actors and questioned the effectiveness of
30 Years Later: Reassessing the Torture Act and the Road to Reform Read More »
When I visited Sri Lanka recently, a decade had passed since my first visit to the island. At that time, as now, there was a sense of possibility in the air. The people of Sri Lanka had cast off the Rajapaksa clan’s control over the nation. New alliances were forged transcending ethnic, religious, and regional
The peaceful and orderly conduct of the recently concluded local government elections which were held without the large-scale abuses of state power or otherwise that marred previous electoral cycles has marked a refreshing change from the past. It demonstrates a commendable commitment by the present government to uphold electoral integrity and democratic norms. We congratulate
Local Government Election Outcome a Call for Inclusive Governance Read More »
The UK government’s decision to impose sanctions on four Sri Lankan individuals, including three former military commanders, has ignited significant debate. This move comes at a time when large-scale violence continues unchecked in other parts of the world, raising concerns about the application of different standards to different countries. As a non-partisan civil society organization,
Sri Lanka Needs a Comprehensive Solution Not Selective Justice Read More »
Journalists and legal professionals from Anuradhapura and Kantale have raised concerns over a range of pressing civil and human rights issues, calling for immediate action and reforms. Anuradhapura: Land Disputes and Legal Aid At a journalist collective meeting in Anuradhapura, journalists highlighted land-related issues, particularly unauthorized constructions and problems with irrigation channels. Many residents are
Jakarta, March 17, 2025 – A coalition of civil society organizations, including the Right to Life Human Rights Organization, has strongly rejected proposed amendments to Law No. 34/2004 on the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI Law). The revisions would expand military roles in civilian governance and law enforcement, threatening democracy and human rights. OMCT, together
Civil Society Opposes Amendments to Indonesia’s TNI Law Read More »
Acting Inspector General of Police (IGP) and Attorney-at-Law Priyantha Weerasuriya has instructed Sri Lanka Police officers to strictly follow the guidelines issued by the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka (HRCSL) to protect the rights of transgender individuals. He emphasized that the HRCSL receives daily complaints regarding instances where police officers allegedly violate the human
Acting IGP Instructs Police to Adhere to Human Rights Guidelines for Transgender People Read More »
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Advocacy for Human Rights Read More »
Right to Life Human Rights Centre, in collaboration with RDPO Sri Lanka and with the support of Misereor, successfully conducted a Human Rights Defenders Training program in Batticaloa. The training, aimed at empowering local human rights defenders, was a significant step toward building a robust foundation for the protection and promotion of human rights in
