At the UN Human Rights Council, Sri Lanka strongly emphasized that interference in the internal affairs of any sovereign country is intolerable. Himalee Subhashini Arunatilaka, the Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka, addressed crucial issues related to human rights, international law, and the credibility of the international human rights framework.
Ambassador Arunatilaka expressed concerns about the polarization within the Council, cautioning against the politicization of human rights. She asserted that such polarization impedes the Council’s ability to achieve its objectives. Instead, she advocated for protective measures guided by the Council’s founding principles, emphasizing constructive dialogue, cooperation, and mutual respect, considering national complexities and challenges.
The Ambassador raised alarms about the disproportionate scrutiny faced by nations in the global south. She criticized intrusive mechanisms that overlook violations elsewhere, eroding the Council’s credibility. Sri Lanka, in particular, has been continuously and disproportionately focused on by the Human Rights Council, a situation deemed unhelpful.
Despite challenges, Ambassador Arunatilaka acknowledged positive comments from states recognizing progress on the ground in Sri Lanka. In the context of human rights in the global south, Sri Lanka reiterated its support for the One China principle and commended China’s cooperation with human rights mechanisms.
Beginning her remarks with a focus on the dire situation in Gaza, Ambassador Arunatilaka emphasized the urgent need for an immediate ceasefire and effective measures to ensure humanitarian aid reaches those in need. Failure to address civilian suffering undermines the foundations of the international human rights framework.
Ambassador Arunatilaka concluded by reiterating that interference in the internal affairs of any sovereign country should not be tolerated.
