European Union Urges Sri Lanka to Align New Law with International Human Rights Standards

04-Mar-2026

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The European Union has urged the Sri Lankan government to ensure that any new legislation intended to replace the Prevention of Terrorism Act complies with international human rights standards.

The EU stated that it is closely monitoring the drafting process of the proposed new law. It welcomed the publication of the draft legislation for public consultation until February 28.

However, the EU emphasized that any new law must conform to international human rights norms and called on the government to give special consideration to recommendations made by UN Special Rapporteurs.

These remarks were made during the 61st session of the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva, which began on March 23 and will continue until March 31.

The EU representative also referred to a previous resolution adopted at the 60th session extending the mandate on “Promoting reconciliation, accountability and human rights in Sri Lanka” for an additional two years. 

A written report by UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk is scheduled to be presented at the 63rd session in September, followed by a comprehensive report at the 66th session next year.