New resolution on Sri Lanka adopted without a vote at the UN Human Rights Council

08-Oct-2025

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A new resolution titled “Promoting Reconciliation, Accountability, and Human Rights in Sri Lanka” — led by the United Kingdom and co-sponsored by Canada, Malawi, Montenegro, and North Macedonia — was adopted on October 6, at the UN Human Rights Council without a vote.

The resolution urges the Sri Lankan government to implement power-sharing commitments essential for reconciliation and human rights, hold provincial council elections, and ensure the effective functioning of all councils, including in the Northern and Eastern provinces, in accordance with the 13th Amendment to the Constitution.

It also emphasizes that member states have obligations to prosecute individuals responsible for serious violations of international human rights and humanitarian law.

Furthermore, it calls for the suspension of Sri Lanka’s Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) until it is repealed, ensuring that any counterterrorism legislation complies with international law.

The resolution highlights the discovery of numerous mass graves in Sri Lanka and urges adequate resources for investigations, independence of the Office on Missing Persons, and compliance with international standards for exhumations.

Additionally, it extends the mandate of the UN Human Rights Office’s accountability mechanism and requires the High Commissioner to present written and detailed reports on Sri Lanka’s progress during the 63rd and 66th sessions of the Council.