Truth seeking investigations
SRI LANKA: Special Rapporteur Pablo de Greiff identifies the challenges to reconciliation
In his visit to Sri Lanka from March 30 to April 3, 2015, the Special Rapporteur on the promotion of truth, justice, reparation and guarantees of non-recurrence, Pablo de Greiff, has examined the opportunities and constraints in the task of addressing past human rights violations, including those that resulted from the armed conflict (1983-2009). While underlining that a military victory does not lead by itself to reconciliation, de Greiff has identified the main challenges the country is facing to reach sustainable peace. The Rapporteur noted that the inadequate implementation of the recommendations made by the numerous commissions of inquiry for mass violations has increased mistrust in the Government. Furthermore, de Greiff highlighted that truth, justice, and reparation are complementary measures and he criticised the fact that in order to receive reparation benefits victims are being forced to give up their rights to truth and justice. De Greiff has recommended the creation of a comprehensive human rights State Policy that would be continued even if there is a change in Government, and called on all Sri Lankans to prevent the instrumentalization of transitional justice measures for the sake of narrow partisan interests, or the benefits of one side. According to the rapporteur, the consultation and participation of all stakeholders is imperative, including the reportedly close to 90,000 women-headed households, children, adolescents and the disabled people affected by the conflict. Immediate action should be taken to address the fate of the missing, the arbitrarily detained and to resolve land issues. Harassment of the civil society and victims must end and psycho-social support is needed for those affected by violence. (OHCHR, 11/04/15)