Universal Periodic Review Working Group – 42nd Session

Universal Periodic Review of Sri Lanka

Statement by Australia

1 February 2023

Thank you, [President/Vice President]

Australia acknowledges Sri Lanka’s commitments towards advancing human rights, reconciliation and transitional justice since its last UPR appearance. We call on Sri Lanka to implement these commitments in full. We acknowledge Sri Lanka’s moratorium on use of the death penalty and encourage its formalisation.

We recognise concerns raised in reports for UNHRC51 (A/HRC/51/5) and UNHRC49 (A/HRC/49/9), particularly over treatment of minority groups, stalled progress on transitional justice and responses to peaceful protest, including use of the Prevention of Terrorism Act. Addressing these concerns and strengthening democratic governance will be fundamental to Sri Lanka’s long-term stability and prosperity.

Australia recommends that Sri Lanka:

1. 1. Fully implement a credible transitional justice and reconciliation mechanism consistent with HRC Resolution 51/1 (A/HRC/51/1) and renew its commitments under Resolution 30/1 (A/HRC/30/1).
2. 2. Repeal the Prevention of Terrorism Act and ensure any replacement legislation conforms to best practice international human rights standards.
3. 3. Amend laws and policies to guarantee the equal rights of women and LGBTI individuals, including by decriminalising consensual same-sex conduct.

[171 words]