The Canadian government has expressed concern about the recent restrictions issued on non-governmental organisations by Sri Lanka.
Foreign Secretary Deepak Obhrai urged Sri Lanka to “respect the right to freedoms of expression, assembly and association”, in a statement released on Thursday.
“Canada is deeply concerned by reports of efforts to restrict legitimate activities of civil society and non-governmental organizations in Sri Lanka. We urge the Sri Lankan authorities to respect the right to freedoms of expression, assembly and association, and the right to take part in public affairs,” he said.
“Instructing civil society organizations to cease media engagement and activities, while persistently harassing and intimidating NGO members and activists, is contrary to democratic principles. Civil society plays a vital role in supporting the democratic process and must be permitted to operate free from undue interference by authorities. An empowered civil society is a crucial component of democratic governance and development,
“We continue to monitor the situation closely.”
See below for related articles.
NGOs armed LTTE – Sri Lankan Prime Minister (11 July 2014)
Government defends NGO restrictions (10 July 2014)
Government to close bank accounts of NGOs not registered with MoD (10 July 2014)
US ‘concerned’ about MoD circular restricting NGO activities (09 July 2014)
Military denies attempts to restrict NGO activities (08 July 2014)
Severe restrictions placed on NGO activities by Ministry of Defence (07 July 2014)
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