Sri Lanka Defends Economic and Human Rights Progress; Criticizes Selective Focus

COLOMBO (news 1st); Sri Lanka says that it is committed to constructive engagement with the UN Human Rights Council and various human rights mechanisms. 

Himalee Arunatilaka, Sri Lanka’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Geneva expressed strong opposition to Human Rights Council Resolution 51/1, which mandated an external evidence-gathering mechanism without Sri Lanka's consent.

Arunatilaka highlighted Sri Lanka's economic recovery following its worst economic crisis, noting significant improvements such as a 5.3% economic growth in the first quarter of 2024, currency appreciation, and a reduction in inflation from over 70% in September 2022 to 1.7% by June 2024. She emphasized that these measures have delivered tangible benefits to Sri Lankans.

She acknowledged the short-term adverse impacts of budgetary restrictions on vulnerable segments of society but stressed the importance of economic stability for the enjoyment of economic and social rights. Welfare measures, including the "Aswesuma" cash transfer program and the national school nutrition program, are in place to mitigate these effects.

Arunatilaka also outlined the government's efforts to address residual issues from decades of conflict, including rehabilitating ex-combatants, demining, providing reparations, and resettling the internally displaced. Initiatives such as the Office on Missing Persons and the Office for National Unity and Reconciliation aim to promote national unity and reconciliation.

She criticized the UN Human Rights Commissioner's report for overstepping its mandate by commenting on macroeconomic and financial issues and failing to recognize Sri Lanka's progress. Arunatilaka reiterated Sri Lanka's rejection of Resolution 51/1, calling it unproductive and unwarranted, and urged the Council to avoid politicization and double standards.

She noted that the upcoming Presidential election on September 21st reaffirms Sri Lanka's commitment to democratic processes.