Bureau of Rehabilitation Bill is a blow to human rights - Amnesty

COLOMBO (News 1st) - Amnesty International has expressed alarm over the passing of the Bureau of Rehabilitation Bill.

Amnesty International South Asia says that the passing of the Bureau of Rehabilitation Bill today by the parliament is a significant blow to human rights.

It noted that law fails to meet international human rights and drug policy standards, including by enabling involuntary "rehabilitation" through use of force.

It went on to note that the passing of the law will pave the way for further human rights violations and put at risk the life and health of people who use drugs. 

Amnesty International South Asia urged the Sri Lankan authorities to urgently reform the country's approach to drug control & treatment to ensure that people who use drugs have access to quality, evidence-based & human rights-centered health & harm reduction services which must be voluntary & community-based.

Notably, following the debate on a critical piece of legislation on Wednesday (18) only 29 MPs were present for the vote.