Sri Lanka’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Vijitha Herath, addressed the High-Level Segment of the 58th Regular Session of the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in Geneva. In his speech, he reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s commitment to human rights, reconciliation, and sustainable development, outlining the government’s strategies for continued engagement with the international community.
Minister Herath highlighted Sri Lanka’s recent elections, which resulted in a government with a strong mandate for economic, social, and political transformation. He emphasized the inclusive nature of the new Parliament, which features a record number of women, representatives from diverse communities, and individuals with disabilities.
Acknowledging Sri Lanka’s past economic crisis, he noted that the government, under President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, has taken significant steps to stabilize the economy and promote economic democratization. The 2025 National Budget prioritizes social welfare, education, healthcare, and support for vulnerable groups, including women, children, and those in conflict-affected regions.
The minister also highlighted ongoing efforts to develop infrastructure and support livelihoods in the Northern and Eastern Provinces. He referenced the “Clean Sri Lanka” initiative, launched in January 2025, aimed at fostering ethical governance and nationwide environmental and social improvements.
Reaffirming Sri Lanka’s dedication to national unity, he underscored efforts to bridge ethnic and religious divides and ensure equal rights for all citizens. Plans include strengthening domestic reconciliation mechanisms, such as the Office on Missing Persons and the Office for Reparations, and establishing a truth and reconciliation framework.
Sri Lanka remains committed to engaging with international human rights bodies and upholding its responsibilities as a UN member state. Minister Herath emphasized the need for global cooperation in addressing human rights challenges and pledged Sri Lanka’s continued constructive engagement with the UNHRC.
