Sri Lanka Highlights National Unity and Human Rights Progress at UNHRC 60th Session

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, Vijitha Herath, emphasized the commitment of Sri Lanka’s new government to political transformation and the promotion of citizen rights during the 60th Session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in Geneva.

Speaking yesterday (September 8) during the Interactive Dialogue on Sri Lanka, Minister Herath highlighted the progress achieved in a short period through domestic processes aimed at national unity and reconciliation. He urged the Council to grant Sri Lanka the necessary time and space to continue these efforts.

A total of 43 countries addressed the Council, including Kuwait (on behalf of the Gulf Cooperation Council), Ethiopia, Japan, China, India, Russia, and several others. These nations expressed solidarity with Sri Lanka, noting the country’s enhanced cooperation with the UNHRC and welcoming legislative reforms and tangible progress in human rights.

The countries also underscored concerns regarding externally imposed parallel mechanisms, emphasizing that such approaches risk polarization and undermine the principles of universality, impartiality, and non-selectivity in the Council. They highlighted the importance of constructive dialogue and cooperation to achieve meaningful results in promoting human rights.

Meanwhile, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, appreciated his visit to Sri Lanka in June, noting the open discussions with political leaders, religious representatives, and communities across the country.

Sri Lanka’s delegation to the 60th UNHRC session was led by Minister Vijitha Herath and included Ambassador Himalee Arunatilaka, Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka to the United Nations in Geneva, Director General Dayani Mendis, and diplomatic officers from the Permanent Mission in Geneva.

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