The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment & Tourism has officially responded to the UK government’s decision to impose sanctions on four individuals over alleged human rights violations during the Sri Lankan Civil War.
The response follows a press release issued by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) on 24th of March 2025, titled “UK Sanctions for Human Rights Violations and Abuses during the Sri Lankan Civil War.”
The Ministry noted that the UK sanctions include an asset freeze and travel ban on the individuals concerned, three of whom are former commanders of the Sri Lankan armed forces.
It also observed that the UK press release referenced a political commitment to prevent impunity for those accused of such violations.
Sri Lanka’s government emphasized that these sanctions are a unilateral action taken by the UK, which could complicate the ongoing national reconciliation process.
The Ministry further stated that the Sri Lankan government is committed to strengthening domestic mechanisms to address past human rights issues through local accountability measures.
Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath conveyed the government’s position to the British High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Andrew Patrick, during a meeting held today at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment & Tourism.
