Mass Grave Exhumations Must Meet International Standards; Member States’ Call

10-Sep-2025

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Several member states, including the UK, New Zealand, Switzerland, and Australia, called for exhumations of mass graves in Sri Lanka to be carried out in line with international standards, and for the repeal of the PTA which continues to be used against individuals.

Japan welcomed Sri Lanka’s commitment to accountability and reconciliation, praising development programs in the North and East, and expressed readiness to provide further cooperation.

The UK reiterated its concern about intimidation of civil society and minorities, and criticized the continued operation of the PTA despite promises of repeal.

Australia reaffirmed its status as a longstanding friend of Sri Lanka and expressed readiness to fully cooperate with Sri Lanka’s efforts for human rights, reconciliation, and transitional justice. It emphasized the repeal of the PTA and amendment of the Public Security Ordinance.

New Zealand, Switzerland, and Montenegro stressed that truth, justice, and accountability must be ensured, and the rule of law upheld.