Colombo, December 11 – The 76th International Human Rights Day was commemorated with a significant event at the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall (BMICH) under the theme “CHANGE” to protect and promote human rights. Organized by the Right to Life Human Rights Centre, this event brought together prominent human rights advocates and activists to discuss pressing issues and pave the way for actionable solutions.
Among the distinguished attendees were Dr. Jehan Perera, Dr. Nimalka Fernando, and Attorney-at-Law Lakshan Dias, who shared their insights on the need for a collective approach to uphold human rights.
Keynote Address by Mr. Sumanlal Weerasinghe – Deputy Director ( HRCSL)
Mr. Sumanlal Weerasinghe, a prominent figure in human rights advocacy, highlighted the initiatives undertaken by the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka (HRCSL). He elaborated on the establishment of eight specialized sub-committees, each focusing on critical areas such as the rights of the LGBTQ community, persons with disabilities, Dravidian people, and freedom of expression.
“These sub-committees have been tasked with making both short-term and long-term decisions to address day-to-day challenges faced by vulnerable groups. Notably, HRCSL has also issued three key guidelines, including one specifically designed to support human rights defenders,” he stated.
Addressing Local Human Rights Violations
Mr. Weerasinghe shed light on HRCSL’s approach to addressing human rights violations at the local level. He emphasized their efforts to engage with area officials to identify challenges and devise actionable solutions on the same day.
A pressing issue identified during these discussions is the lack of birth certificates for a majority of plantation workers, which has created barriers such as difficulty obtaining national identity cards and accessing government assistance.
Mobile Campaign for Vulnerable Communities
As a proactive step, HRCSL has launched a mobile campaign to provide essential services to individuals in need. “Through this campaign, we will issue birth certificates and other necessary documents to affected individuals, ensuring they have access to basic rights and opportunities,” Mr. Weerasinghe announced.
Honoring the Fight for Justice
A highlight of the event was the appreciation of the Nimal Chandrasiri family, who have tirelessly fought for justice since 2012, following the tragic death of Nimal Chandrasiri due to police torture. Their 12-year battle for accountability and justice was recognized as an inspiring example of resilience and determination.
The Right to Life Human Rights Centre honored the Chandrasiri family, emphasizing the importance of holding perpetrators accountable and supporting families impacted by human rights violations.
A Call for Change
The event underscored the importance of meaningful action and collaboration in addressing human rights violations and protecting the rights of marginalized communities. The participants reaffirmed their commitment to promoting equality, dignity, and justice, aligning with the theme “CHANGE.”
The 76th International Human Rights Day event was a testament to the tireless efforts of human rights defenders and organizations like the Right to Life Human Rights Centre, fostering hope for a more equitable and inclusive society.
