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UN Sri Lanka Core Group expresses several concerns on current situation

15 Jun 2022

The United Nations (UN) Sri Lanka Core Group yesterday (14) noted that it recognises the significant challenges that Sri Lanka has been facing over recent months, causing great hardship for the Sri Lankan people. In a statement delivered by Ambassador Rita French in Geneva, on behalf of Canada, Germany, Malawi, Montenegro, North Macedonia, the UK and the United States, it was expressed that protesters have exercised their rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and association, and freedom of expression in recent months. “We are deeply concerned by violent attacks on peaceful protests and subsequent violence against government-aligned politicians and supporters. Those responsible for this violence must be held to account,” French stated on behalf of the Core Group. Further, the crucial importance of upholding democracy, human rights and the rule of law, and maintaining independent institutions was stressed. Authorities were further urged to address long-standing impunity and corruption. French also underlined the need for good governance and sound economic policies. “Our concerns over surveillance and intimidation of civil society persist and we stress the importance of protecting civil society space,” she further added. In conclusion, the Core Group called on Sri Lanka to cooperate with the High Commissioner and her Office and noted that it is ready to support Sri Lanka on the implementation of HRC resolution 46/1.


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