News

Colombo, September 21, 2023 – In a poignant demonstration of resilience and determination, families of 11 individuals who were abducted and disappeared by a Navy team on September 18, 2008, gathered in front of the United Nations office in Tummulla, Colombo today. The event marked the 15th anniversary of this tragic incident, which still haunts …

Families of Abducted Individuals Demand Justice After 15 Years Read More »

Local think tank’s assessment of 31 public authorities including Ministries, the Prez’s/PM’s Offices, finds low levels of Govt. openness  Observes only a marginal lifting of the veil of secrecy  Despite the fact that it has been five years since the Right to Information (RTI) Act was fully operationalised in Sri Lanka, various aspects pertaining to …

Local Think Tank Finds Low Government Openness in Sri Lanka Despite RTI Act Read More »

In an era marked by rapid technological advancements, the delicate balance between digital innovation and internet freedom faces unprecedented challenges. The upcoming release of the “Freedom on the Net 2023: The Repressive Power of Artificial Intelligence” report by Freedom House sheds light on the evolving landscape of online repression. Scheduled for release on October 4, …

New Report Highlights Threats to Internet Freedom Posed by Advances in Artificial Intelligence Read More »

In a world facing unprecedented challenges such as unresolved conflicts, climate change, and financial instability, the International Day of Democracy, observed on September 15, takes on a new significance. This year, the theme, “Empowering the Next Generation,” highlights the crucial role young people play in advancing and safeguarding democracy. Established by a UN General Assembly …

International Day of Democracy 2023 Focuses on Empowering the Next Generation Read More »

The 54th session of the Human Rights Council is scheduled to convene at the Palais des Nations in Geneva, Switzerland. This regular session will span from September 11th to October 13th, 2023. Commencing at 10 a.m. on Monday, September 11, Ambassador Václav Bálek from the Czech Republic will preside over the opening ceremony. The opening …

54th UNHRC session to commence on Monday (11) Read More »

  In a recent report released by PEaCE/ECPAT Sri Lanka, concerning incidents of child abuse and exploitation during July 2023 have raised alarming concerns within the country. The report, which aggregates and verifies data from media coverage, highlights a disturbing trend of child abuse cases and the targeted involvement of drug dealers towards school children. …

Rising Concerns Over Child Abuse and Targeting by Drug Dealers: ECPAT Sri Lanka Report Read More »

In a recent incident that has sparked outrage, a formal complaint has been filed with The Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka (HRCSL) and the Inspector General of Police (IGP) against the Yakkalamulla Police in Galle district. The complaint centers around the alleged wrongful arrest and assault of a civilian. The victim, identified as Koggala …

Alleged Police Assault Triggers Rights Complaint in Sri Lanka: Victim Seeks Justice Read More »

The life of a seemingly insignificant 17-year-old youth named Sandun Malinga from Meegaskiwula in the Badulla District took a tragic turn. His value as a person appeared to hold little weight to the group of five police officers and a civil defense officer who subjected him to a fatal beating on a dark night in …

Twists of Justice: Acquittal and Reduced Sentences in Kandaketiya Sadun Malinga Murder Case Read More »