Memorialisation is an important tool in addressing conflict situations where years of repression, social inequality and injustice have created polarised communities. Memory initiatives can be a great healer and an enabler of reconciliation, paving ways and opportunities for dialogue, understanding, apologising, acknowledging and addressing past violence between divided societies. The change in the political environment […]
The 2015 political transition in Sri Lanka witnessed several promises for reform. One area in the reform agenda includes the processes and mechanisms for transitional justice. The resolution titled ‘Promoting Reconciliation, Accountability and Human Rights in Sri Lanka’ adopted at the United Nations Human Rights Council in 2015 provides with it a broad framework for consideration. […]
Thousands of people went missing during the near three decade long war in Sri Lanka but due to the lack of a comprehensive and independent investigation, the exact number is unknown. State and non state initiatives have noted various steps required regarding this specific issue including the tracing of missing persons, legal support, mental health […]
With the end of the war in 2009, the need to address the widespread death, destruction, and displacement was overwhelming. Allegations against all sides of potential war crimes and crimes against humanity demands an independent investigation and the prosecution within a credible court of law of those responsible for international crimes committed during the final […]
For any post war society grappling with the consequences of past violence and engaged in exploring modalities for transitional justice, reparations is an important tool. Reparations, if designed and implemented in an inclusive manner that factors in the grievances of the victims and affected communities, can be an effective tool in acknowledging and addressing the […]
Several reports in 2015 indicate to the possibility of establishing a ‘credible domestic process’ in Sri Lanka. This comes in a context of failed attempts in the past to address truth and justice in Sri Lanka and the ongoing protests by victims, families of the disappeared and affected communities for greater action. Recent protests also […]
Commissioned by and written in consultation with the Centre for Policy Alternatives (CPA), ‘The Internet as a medium for free expression: A Sri Lankan legal perspective’ by J.C. Weliamuna looks at the legal framework governing the freedom of expression online in Sri Lanka. J.C. Weliamuna is a well-known Attorney-at-Law, human rights activist and the recipient […]
Centre for Policy Alternatives on 31 March, 2016