UN Yet to Decide on Domestic or International Accountability Process For Sri Lanka Says Sec-Gen’s Office

01/08/2015

The UN is yet to decide whether there will be a domestic or international accountability mechanism to deal with the findings of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) investigation into Sri Lanka’s atrocities, said a representative of the office of the Spokesperson for the Secretary General. Responding to a question on the nature of the accountability mechanism that the UN support in Sri Lanka, the spokesperson, said, “I think, you know, whether it’s domestic or international, that will need to be determined.  We are obviously awaiting the High Commissioner’s report and recommendations to make that decision.” Answering questions on if the UN Peacebuilding Fund was considering funding a national accountability mechanism in Sri Lanka as suggested by recently leaked documents, the Un Secretary General representative said, “I think what I can tell you is that the UN supports the Government and the people of Sri Lanka and their efforts to advance reconciliation and accountability as evidenced by commitments made by the Secretary General and during the Under-Secretary-General’s recent visit — Feltman’s recent visit to Sri Lanka.  In this regard, we’re exploring provision of a broad package of technical and financial assistance at the request of the Chief Minister, also including the support of the Northern Province to bolster citizen confidence in the peace process.  What is currently under discussion for support by the Peacebuilding Fund are initiatives to advance the process of reconciliation in Sri Lanka by resettlement of internally displaced persons, national reconciliation, strengthening human rights mechanism, and ending impunity.  The UN support is always based on the basis of inclusive and participatory consultations with all key stakeholders.” Tamil Guardian 01 August 2015