On December 11, 2024, the Right to Life Human Rights Center celebrated International Human Rights Day with an impactful event themed “ CHANGE TO PROTECTION HUMAN RIGHTS” at BMICH TULIP Hall. The discussions highlighted critical issues like gender inequality, economic struggles, legal reforms, and transitional justice. With inspiring speakers, engaging discussions, and empowering moments like the book launches, we came together to advocate for a more just and equitable future for Sri Lanka.
The commemorative gathering featured prominent human rights advocates and professionals who delivered insightful speeches, highlighting the importance of human rights in Sri Lanka. Notable participants included Dr. Jehan Perera, Chairman of the National Peace Council, Dr. Nimalka Fernando (AAL) President of IMADR International, Lakshan Dias (AAL) President of the Right to Life Human Rights Center, Sumanalal Weerasinghe (AAL) Deputy Director of the Human Rights Commission, and Dulan Dasanayaka(AAL), Director of the Legal Department of the Right to Life Human Rights Center. The event provided a platform for discussing critical human rights issues, promoting dialogue, and reaffirming the commitment to protecting and advancing human rights principles in the country.
Sumanalal Weerasinghe, the Director of Investigations and Inquiries of the Sri Lankan Human Rights Commission, expressed views today (11th) about the human rights protection measures taken by the Human Rights Commission while participating in the Human Rights Commemoration event.
Accordingly, he pointed out that the Human Rights Commission has appointed 8 sub-committees. These sub-committees are focused on various areas including:Violence prevention,LGBTQ community,Disabled community,Tamil plantation workers,Business rights.Civil and political rights,Women’s rights, Freedom of expression. These sub-committees are making both short-term and long-term decisions related to daily matters.
Furthermore, they have published three guidelines, with a special guideline issued for human rights defenders.
The Human Rights Commission is also discussing human rights violations at the regional level, engaging with local officials to determine both short-term and long-term measures.
Among the identified issues, they have recognized that a significant number of plantation workers lack birth certificates, which prevents them from obtaining national identity cards and subsequently accessing state assistance.
To address these challenges, the Commission is conducting a mobile campaign to resolve such issues. Through this mobile campaign, they aim to issue birth certificates and provide necessary documentation services to those who currently lack them in a single opportunity.
