A delegation from the European Union to Sri Lanka has issued a statement commemorating the 11th anniversary since the end of the armed conflict, by stating they will "support Sri Lanka’s efforts towards reconciliation".
This statement comes despite regression in terms of reconciliation and accountability as army officials accused of war crimes are not only pardoned, but are promoted. In the last year alone, a war criminal was appointed to head position of commander of the Army and now leads the country’s COVID-response, and the government has withdrawn from co-sponsorship of the UNHRC resolution 30/1.
The statement they issued on Twitter reads:
On the 11th anniversary of war’s end, we remember the many lives lost & the continuing legacy of conflict. The EU will continue to support #SriLanka's efforts towards reconciliation & healing, with respect for human rights & rule of law, for a more inclusive future for all.
Tamil groups in the diaspora and across the North-East have consistently called for international accountability mechanisms to account for atrocities committed during the armed conflict.
Read the EU delegation’s statement here.
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