Sri Lanka To Introduce New Counter - Terrorism Law Aligned with Global Standards

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka is taking decisive steps to reform its counter-terrorism framework and strengthen reconciliation mechanisms, according to Minister of Justice and National Integration Harshana Nanayakkara.

Speaking on the government’s legislative agenda at the 29th Session of the Committee on Enforced Disappearances at the United Nations Office in Geneva, Minister Nanayakkara announced that the administration led by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has initiated action to repeal the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) and replace it with new counter-terrorism legislation aligned with international standards and best practices.

“A Cabinet-appointed committee is currently formulating proposals and is in the advanced stages of finalizing the draft legislation,” he said, adding that the government expects to table the new law very soon.

In a parallel move to advance reconciliation, the Cabinet has approved an additional Rs. 375 million for the Office on Missing Persons (OMP) to expedite investigations into long-standing cases. 

Minister Nanayakkara revealed that the OMP has already traced 23 missing persons, issued certificates of absence, and made referrals to the Office for Reparations.

He emphasized that Sri Lanka’s governance structure is supported by an independent judiciary and robust oversight mechanisms, including independent commissions.

“The government continues to strengthen domestic reconciliation mechanisms, including the Office for Reparations and the Office for National Unity and Reconciliation, by guaranteeing their independence and allocating necessary resources,” he said.

These reforms reflect the administration’s broader commitment to justice, accountability, and national unity, as Sri Lanka navigates its post-conflict recovery and democratic renewal.

The Committee on Enforced Disappearances (CED) is the body of independent experts which monitors the implementation of the Convention for the Protection of all Persons against Enforced Disappearance by the States parties.

At its 548th Meeting of the 29th Session, Sri Lanka was taken into consideration.

Justice Minister Harshana Nanayakkara led the Sri Lankan delegation at this session, with Sri Lankan representatives on stand-by to answer questions virutally from Colombo.