June 26, 2024 – As the world observes the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, calls for the stringent enforcement of anti-torture laws in Sri Lanka have intensified. This follows a landmark judgment by the Matara High Court, which sentenced three police officers, including the former Officer-in-Charge of the Tissamaharama Police, to seven […]
In a significant move to enhance human rights advocacy, Mr. Philip Dissanayake, Executive Director of Right to Life Human Rights Centre, has signed a partnership agreement with the Netherlands Embassy. This collaboration aims to strengthen the capabilities of human rights defenders, ensuring more robust and effective advocacy efforts. The partnership underscores a shared commitment to
Right to Life Human Rights Centre Partners with Netherlands Embassy to Bolster Advocacy Read More »
History of Torture Prevention Acts Worldwide The prevention of torture has been a significant concern for the international community, with efforts to eradicate this inhumane practice intensifying over the past century. The modern framework for torture prevention began to take shape after World War II, influenced by the horrors of wartime atrocities. The United Nations
Torture Prevention: Global Efforts and Sri Lankan Challenges Amidst Legal Protections. Read More »
The Committee for Protecting Rights of Prisoners (CPRP) has strongly condemned a life-threatening call received by the mother of Kapila Kumara de Silva, a forcibly disappeared activist. The threat occurred at 12:28 AM on Friday, just a day after CPRP lodged a complaint with the Attorney General under the International Convention for the Protection of
CPRP Condemns Life-Threatening Call to Mother of Disappeared Activist Read More »
Two police officers serving at Alawwa Police were arrested on May 4, 2024, by officers from the Group Robbery Investigation Unit of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in connection with a suspected disappearance and unlawful detention that occurred 13 years ago. The arrested officers are Sergeant A.L. Kumara and Constable R.D.S.B. Rajapaksha. Both officers
Police Officers Arrested in Connection with Disappearance 13 Years Ago Read More »
State Minister of Finance Shehan Semasinghe said that the impact of political power struggles must not be detrimental to addressing the economic crisis. He detailed the government’s strategic measures since 2022, which have been crucial in stabilizing the economy. The Minister emphasized that the decisions taken by the President and the government, supported by parliamentary
Colombo, May 21, 2024 — A policy dialogue held on the misuse of law, science, and media highlighted the damaging impact of irresponsible journalism and opportunistic objectives. The event, attended by eminent personalities and professionals from various sectors, scrutinized how misinformation and disinformation can lead to severe societal consequences. The policy dialogue was organized by
Policy Dialogue Highlights Need for Action against Misuse of Law, Science, and Media Read More »
The joint commemoration event titled “Turning Point” held on May 17 at Viharamahadevi Park in Colombo was in memory of the loss of life that took place 15 years ago at the war’s end for people from all sides. It is an indication that the wounds of the three-decade long war are beginning to heal.
The Right to Life Human Rights Centre (R2L) has unveiled its second torture monitoring report, titled “TRUTH: Targeting Rights: Unraveling Torture’s Harm.” This quarterly newsletter provides a critical examination of the ongoing issue of torture in Sri Lanka, highlighting the prevalence, prevention measures, and legal actions against perpetrators. The report’s key objectives include: Monitoring the
Right to Life Human Rights Centre Launches Second Torture Monitoring Report Read More »
In a significant verdict issued today, the Gampaha High Court Trial-At-Bar acquitted four Sri Lanka Army personnel implicated in the Rathupaswala shooting incident, which resulted in the deaths of three individuals during a protest in 2013. The acquitted individuals include an Army officer and three soldiers. The Trial-at-Bar, comprising High Court Judges Nimal Ranaweera, Nishantha
Gampaha High Court Acquits Four Sri Lanka Army Suspects in Rathupaswala Shooting Case Read More »
By Dr.Jehan Perera Elections provide a unique situation where people become equal regardless of their class or ethnic and religious identity. This offers space to rival politicians to address their unmet needs. The government has commenced several development initiatives that will take resources to the community level in a targeted manner. These initiatives would be
Preparing for Free & Fair Elections Read More »
In a landmark ruling, justice has finally been served for Hemasiri, who endured appalling treatment at the hands of law enforcement officials over a decade ago. The incident traces back to December 19, 2009, when Hemasiri, accompanied by fellow opposition party members, was present in Hakmana town. Encountering posters advertising an upcoming opposition gathering,
