An Amnesty International report,’Sri Lanka: Suppressing calls for justice’, released today, reiterated its ‘urgent call on the UN to establish an independent international investigation into alleged war crimes, crimes against humanity and other crimes under international law committed by all sides of the armed conflict.”

See report here.

The report outlined threats on to people meeting with visiting foreign MP’s, retaliations faced by people speaking to US diplomats and retaliations faced by people protesting enforced disappearances.

Speaking in Amnesty International’s press release, the Amnesty International’s Deputy Asia-Pacific Director, Polly Truscott, said,

“Sri Lanka is doing whatever it can to avoid accountability for the alleged horrific violations by its security forces during the armed conflict”

“We urge UN member states to use the HRC to agree a strong resolution establishing an independent international investigation into alleged war crimes. And its equally crucial that the world does not lose sight of the still very troubling assault on dissent in Sri Lanka today.”

“The pattern of harassment, surveillance and attacks against those opposing the Sri Lanka authorities is deeply disturbing and shows no sign of letting up”

“Repression usually intensifies whenever Sri Lanka’s human rights situation is in focus internationally, something we are already seeing ahead of the UN Human Rights Council next month.”

“The climate of fear is very real in Sri Lanka. Many people are too afraid to speak out. But Sri Lanka also has some very brave activists, who continue to be vocal despite facing retaliation.”

“Some even dare to attend international meetings that could actually lead to an improved human rights situation. The UN should make every effort to ensure that they are protected.”