Member states of the United Nations Human Rights Council  questioned Sri Lanka on ongoing torture, militarisation and its failure to repeal the Prevention of Terrorism Act in an advanced submission to the Universal Periodic Review Process.

Expressing concern with recent reports of torture Norway, Germany, the US, asked Sri Lanka when the draconian Prevention of Terrorism Act will be repealed, and expressed concern at Sri Lanka’s failure to hold security forces and government officials accountable for human rights violations.

Noting the lack of accountability for violations of international humanitarian law the US said,

“We are disappointed in the lack of movement toward holding security forces and government officials accountable for human rights violations and abuses. We are concerned by reports of continued excesses by some members of the security forces, including alleged incidents of torture, sexual violence and arbitrary arrest. What steps is the government taking to end these abuses, and when will the government repeal the Prevention of Terrorism Act and replace it with anti-terrorism legislation that complies with international law and is less susceptible to serving as a pretext for human rights violations and abuses?"

"When does the government plan to establish a credible judicial mechanism to investigate allegations of violations and abuses of human rights, and violations of international humanitarian law?” the US mission added. 

Sri Lanka is set to face its Universal Period Human Rights review with member states of the United Nations on Wednesday November 15. 

See full advance submission of member states here.