UN rapporteurs urge SL govt to speed up justice

Two special rapporteurs of the United Nations, who just concluded a week-long mission in Sri Lanka on Saturday (May 7) said Sri Lanka needs urgent comprehensive measures to ensure structural reforms in key institutions such as the armed forces, police and the Attorney General’s Office. Special Rapporteur on the Independence of Judges and Lawyers Mönica Pinto and Special Rapporteur on torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment, Juan E. Méndez visited the island from 29 April to 7 May on an invitation extended by the government. The UN officials visited Sri Lanka to assess recent developments and identify challenges related to the use of torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment, and to the independence of the justice system, according to the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR). Addressing a press conference at the UN Compound in Colombo after the conclusion of their mission, the Special Rapporteurs said they are encouraged by the government’s progress in addressing human rights violations. “We are encouraged by the recent steps taken by the Government to advance respect for human rights, including their support to Human Rights Council resolution 30/1 on ‘promoting reconciliation, accountability and human rights in Sri Lanka’,” said the UN Special Rapporteurs.