Message of the Chairman of the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka, International Day in Support of Victims of Torture – 2024

On this day of International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka (HRCSL) stands united with the global community in reaffirming its commitment to render its full support to victims of torture and their families. This day which marks the moment in 1987 when the UN Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment came into effect, serves as a powerful reminder of the collective responsibility of all States to eradicate all forms of torture and protect and uphold the dignity and rights of every individual.

The HRCSL, as the key oversight body to promote and protect human rights in Sri Lanka observes that, similar to previous years, during the year 2022 too, the highest number of complaints received by the HRCSL were pertaining to violations of personal liberty totalling 2228, out of which 560 cases were those of Torture. Although the HRCSL through its inquiries and investigative mechanisms, takes all measures within its capacity to provide redress and reparation to victims of torture, attention is drawn on this day to the aforementioned statistics, to underscore the gravity of the issue and urgent need to address and eliminate torture from our society at large.   Read more.

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HRCSL Message on International Day in Support of Victims of Torture 2024