The European Union in Sri Lanka marked the International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances by calling for “further action towards truth, justice, & reparations” on the issue of disappearances on the island.
In a tweet sent to mark the day, the EU also said that it recognises steps taken by the Sri Lankan government to set up the Office of Missing Persons (OMP).
Many Sri Lankans are waiting for clarity on the fate of their disappeared loved ones. On #EnforcedDisappearances day, we recognise steps taken by GoSL in setting up @ompsrilanka & encourage further action towards truth, justice, & reparations for all victims & their families #lka pic.twitter.com/6nTazLlGaa
— EU in Sri Lanka (@EU_in_Sri_Lanka) August 30, 2018
The OMP, has been deeply criticised by Tamil families of the disappeared for lacking independence and failing to take their views into consideration. Earlier this month the families called the office an “exercise in futility”, and demanded “action, not words”. Many have boycotted hearings in the North-East, with their roadside protests for accountability for disappearances having continued for over 500 days.
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