Sri Lanka to Launch New Support System for Families of the Disappeared

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka is preparing to introduce a new, integrated compensation system for families affected by enforced disappearances, marking a significant step in the country’s reconciliation and justice efforts.

Minister of Justice and National Integration, Harshana Nanayakkara, stated that the government is “acutely conscious of the immense impact of enforced disappearances on victims' families in all parts of the country,” and is committed to addressing these challenges with urgency and compassion.

The proposed system will go beyond the existing one-time revival grant, aiming to provide long-term, transparent support. According to Minister Nanayakkara, the new framework will include:

Fair financial compensation
Vocational education and livelihood opportunities
Access to health facilities
Psychosocial care
Restoration of social dignity

The initiative is part of the government’s broader reconciliation strategy, which includes strengthening institutions such as the Office on Missing Persons, the Office for Reparations, and the Office for National Unity and Reconciliation.