The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has voiced deep apprehension over Sri Lanka’s approach to tackling its drug problem, emphasizing a reliance on a security-based response rather than human rights-grounded public health policies.
As of December 17, an alarming 29,000 individuals have reportedly faced arrest on drug-related charges, with disturbing allegations of ill-treatment and torture emerging. The spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, in briefing notes, revealed that security forces have conducted raids without search warrants, detaining suspected drug sellers and users, and sending hundreds to military-run rehabilitation centers. Following these operations, numerous human rights violations have been reported, including unauthorized searches, arbitrary arrests and detention, ill-treatment, torture, and public strip searches. Legal representatives for those detained have raised concerns about intimidation from police officers.
While acknowledging the serious societal challenge posed by drug use, the UN Human Rights Office stresses that a heavy-handed law enforcement approach is not the solution. Drug abuse and its underlying factors are primarily public health and social issues. Individuals suspected of drug-related activities are entitled to humane treatment, with full respect for due process and transparent, fair trials.
The statement underscores the need for providing appropriate support and programs to individuals using drugs, addressing the root causes of addiction, and facilitating their reintegration into society. The UN Human Rights Office had previously issued a report urging states to develop effective drug policies, including consideration of the decriminalization of drug use and possession for personal use.
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, calls upon the Sri Lankan government to review its ongoing “Yukthiya” operation. Türk urges the implementation of human rights-based approaches, particularly emphasizing the right to health, in addressing the challenges posed by illicit drugs in society. The spokesperson concluded by emphasizing the imperative need for thorough and impartial investigations into allegations of abuse of authority, torture, ill-treatment, denial of due process, and infringement of fair trial rights, with a call for justice to be served.
