In February, PIAC released its report Island of impunity? Investigation into international crimes in the final stages of the Sri Lankan civil war. The report was the culmination of a two-year investigation conducted as part of the International Crimes Evidence Project and shows the importance of establishing an international inquiry mechanism for Sri Lanka.
This month, the United Nations Human Rights Council (HRC) is considering the issue of accountability in Sri Lanka. In the lead up to the HRC discussion, PIAC co-hosted a side event for members of the diplomatic community and civil society.
The event shed light on key aspects of the Sri Lankan civil war, alleged violations, the climate of impunity in Sri Lanka and the continuation of torture, rape, sexual violence and enforced disappearances.
Callum Macrae, director of the award-winning documentary, No Fire Zone, presented a short clip of his work. For the first time ever, Dr. Varatharajah Thurairajah, spoke in the United Nations about his experiences. He was one of a handful of Sri Lankan Government doctors who worked in the No Fire Zone during the final stages of the war, providing emergency care under extreme conditions and danger. Edward Santow presented PIAC’s recent findings. Charu Lata Hogg, from Child Soldiers International, discussed forced child recruitment by the LTTE and the Karuna faction and the need for accountability.
More information about PIAC’s International Crimes Evidence Project