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, Saman Lal 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.
At the event, Lakshan Dias(AAL), President of the Right to Life Human Rights Center, emphasized several key points. He noted that while existing human rights laws are currently at a satisfactory level, they must be updated, and citizen involvement in protecting human rights should be significantly increased.
Furthermore, he expressed that the current domestic violence law needs to be strengthened, and its 345th clause should be further expanded. He also called for creating a broader discourse on repealing the Prevention of Terrorism Act, and stressed the importance of extending the scope of prisoner rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) to wider ranges of application. Dias highlighted the need for comprehensive legal reforms and more active citizen participation to ensure the protection and advancement of human rights in the country.
