In a statement released today, Amnesty International has said that a UN inquiry into human rights violations in Sri Lanka, which was approved by the Human Rights council earlier this morning, must be “as robust and far reaching as possible”.

The statement welcomed both the resolution and investigation as “important steps towards breaking the cycle of impunity”, with David Griffiths, Asia-Pacific Deputy Director at Amnesty International adding,

“The UN inquiry brings new hope for the thousands of victims of abuses in Sri Lanka”.

“It is important that the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights is provided with the necessary material and political support to make its investigation as robust and far reaching as possible, with the aim of ensuring that the truth is finally established so that impunity is tackled.”

He went on to state,

“The Sri Lankan government has twice ignored calls by the UN Human Rights Council to conduct an independent and credible investigation into allegations of violations during the country’s horrific civil conflict. Now they have a fresh opportunity to restore some international credibility by cooperating with the investigation.”

“Not only have the Sri Lankan authorities failed to secure justice for war crimes and possible crimes against humanity, they are also actively targeting those seeking justice.”

“This resolution is important for those human rights defenders who have risked their lives and freedom to seek the truth and end the ongoing cycle of human rights violations in Sri Lanka. It is equally important for victims and families who have waited many years for justice.”

See the full statement here.

Find full coverage of the UNHRC vote and reactions to the resolution mandating the OHCHR to undertake an inquiry here.