(COLOMBO, LANKAPUVATH) –The United Nations (UN) High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet in her opening statement to the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) 41st session in Geneva on Monday (24) stated that she was concerned that the terrorist attacks 2-months ago have fuelled increasing tensions in Sri Lanka.
Bachelet stressed that she was disturbed by reports of anti-Muslim attacks.
“Recent statements by some religious leaders inciting violence constitute worrying early warning indicators that should be addressed.”
She also noted that while some counter-terrorism measures are warranted, the state of emergency should be of minimal duration, and a priority should be given to bringing political, religious and other community leaders together to address root causes of all forms of violence and discrimination.
“In this context, I express my support to the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka for its commendable and courageous role,” she said.
Bachelet said during the 41st session, the UNHRC will examine over 100 reports concerning a number of countries.
“Panel discussions will delve deeply into many human rights situations and themes. They include topics crucial to women’s enjoyment of human rights in the context of work, old age and climate change; targeted surveillance and the private surveillance industry; mental health; and other essential areas of political, civil, economic, social and cultural rights. There will also be interactive dialogues regarding the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Myanmar, Sudan, and Venezuela, among many other issues,” she added.
