No positive response to UN WGEID request from Sri Lanka since 2006

30/08/2014

[A mother at the public meeting held on 30th Vavuniya to commoreate the Disappearance Day; Photo BBC Sandeshaya]
In it s report to upcoming 27th session of UNHRC the UN Working group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances (WGEID) says that it has not received a positive respons form Sri Lanka for its request (on 16 Oct 2006) for an invitation to undertake a visit to the country.

Sri Lanka chapter of the WGEID report follows:

94.The Working Group notes with concern that it has transmitted four prompt intervention letters during the reporting period concerning the alleged intimidation of and reprisals against human rights defenders who work on the issue of enforced disappearances (A/HRC/WGEID/99/1, para. 123; A/HRC/WGEID/100/1, para. 94; A/HRC/WGEID/103/1, paras. 154–155). While thanking the Government for its responses to two of those communications, the Working Group recalls article 13 of the Declaration which provides that steps shall be taken to ensure that all involved in the investigation, including the complainant, counsel, witnesses and those conducting the investigation, are protected against ill-treatment, intimidation or reprisal.

95.The Working Group appreciates the replies on a high number of cases from the Government of Sri Lanka and hopes that a visit will contribute to the clarification of many of the outstanding cases.

96.The Working Group thanks the Government for its response to the general allegation sent on the process and methodology of the Presidential Commission on Enforced Disappearances and hopes that the challenges identified are addressed in a way that secures the right to truth and justice.

97. The Working Group notes resolution 25/1 of the Human Rights Council of 26 March 2014, which calls for advice and technical assistance by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights and special procedures mandate holders, urges the Government to cooperate and offers any assistance necessary in that regard.

98.On 16 October 2006, the Working Group requested an invitation to undertake a visit to the country. No positive response yet has been received from the Government in spite of reminders sent. The Working Group hopes that a positive reply will be received soon.

- Report of the Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances*