Thursday Nov 07, 2024
FT
Thursday Nov 07, 2024
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The sixth meeting of the European Union – Sri Lanka Working Group on Governance, Rule of Law and Human Rights issuing a joint statement said the EU reaffirms its commitment to support Sri Lanka’s efforts to overcome the current unprecedented economic crisis successfully. It also extended its support to Sri Lanka in implementing necessary reforms and social protection measures, which would mitigate the adverse impact of the crisis and lead the country towards sustainable growth and prosperity.
The Sixth Working Group on Governance, Rule of Law and Human Rights met in Colombo on 28 October.
“The Working Group meeting took place in the context of regular bilateral interactions between Sri Lanka and the European Union (EU). The full-day proceedings provided for a cordial exchange of views and experiences, in a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect. “The two sides discussed the recent developments in Sri Lanka and the EU and the implementation of relevant action and legislative initiatives regarding the promotion and protection of human rights. Sri Lanka briefed the EU on progress in reconciliation,” the statement said.
During the meeting, Sri Lanka apprised the EU of the 21st Amendment to the Constitution, which is aimed at strengthening democratic governance and independent oversight of key institutions, public scrutiny, as well as anti-corruption measures, with the re-establishment of the Constitutional Council and Independent Commissions.
In this context, the two sides had also discussed the importance of the separation of powers and checks and balances, and the ongoing work of independent institutions. The Working Group was also updated on the electoral reform process and the two sides reiterated the importance of the democratic freedoms of opinion and expression, and the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and association.
The EU welcomed progress in the Justice Sector Reform Program, funded by the EU which will further improve access to justice and enhance human rights.
The EU acknowledged the steps taken by Sri Lanka in March 2022 to reform the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) and pointed to the need for further action in line with its commitments. The organisation expressed its concern about the recent use of the PTA.
The joint statement said the Sri Lankan Government however assured them that the PTA has been invoked only in instances of extreme necessity. The EU noted Sri Lanka’s update on the release of detainees under the PTA in 2021-2022 and encouraged the release of long-term detainees under the PTA who have not been charged.
Sri Lanka expressed its strong commitment to preparing a comprehensive legislative proposal to replace the PTA in accordance with the Constitution, and in line with international norms and best practices, with a view to its finalisation in 2023. The two sides discussed the situation of minorities and the respective measures taken to address hate speech. They also exchanged views on the legislative and other measures taken to protect the rights of women and children, and action is taken to advance labour rights including the elimination of child labour.
Cooperation in the UN Human Rights Council, including treaty bodies, special procedures and the universal periodic review process was also discussed and the EU encouraged Sri Lanka to continue its engagement with the Human Rights Council and its mechanisms.
The Working Group was updated on the GSP+ monitoring process and its requirements. The EU encouraged tangible progress by Sri Lanka on its GSP+ commitment.
The Working Group was co-chaired by Varuni Muthukumarana, Director General Europe, Central Asia, EU and Commonwealth, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Sri Lanka and Rensje Teerink, Deputy Director and Head of South Asia Division, European External Action Service.
