UN Urges Sri Lanka to Repeal PTA and Online Safety Act

COLOMBO (News 1st); United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has called on the Sri Lankan government to impose a moratorium on the use of the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA), expedite the release of long-term detainees, and repeal the controversial Online Safety Act. 

Türk emphasized that while Sri Lanka has made progress in areas such as women’s political participation, significant challenges remain. He noted that the recent parliamentary elections saw 22 women elected, doubling female representation to 9.8%. However, he stressed the need for greater inclusion of women in public and political life, and highlighted the persistent gender pay gap, with women earning 27% less than men for the same work.

He also expressed concern over the severe economic hardships faced by vulnerable communities, particularly plantation workers, and called for urgent action to improve their access to land, housing, and fair wages.

Reflecting on the 2022 Aragalaya protests, Türk acknowledged the public’s demand for accountability in governance and economic management. He welcomed the government’s efforts in this regard and encouraged continued reforms, suggesting that Sri Lanka has the potential to transition toward a “human rights economy” — one that addresses inequality, injustice, and unsustainable practices.

“I leave here with a strong hope that there is a palpable desire, both in the government and in society, to draw a line under the entrenched identity politics of ethnicity, religion, language, culture, caste, and class,” he said. “Sri Lanka can become a story of hope — a model of peaceful coexistence and diversity.”

Türk reaffirmed the UN Human Rights Office’s readiness to support Sri Lanka in its journey toward justice, equality, and sustainable peace.