Sri Lanka
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Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka
Membership: Associate Member
Admitted: 1997 (2nd Regional Workshop)
The Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka was established under the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka Act, No. 21 (1996). It began operating in September 1997.
The Commission has a wide mandate to deal with illegal detention, torture, disappearance and murder. It also has a responsibility to educate the public and armed forces and to advise on any administrative or other changes that may be necessary to avoid violations of human rights and fundamental freedoms.
The main functions of the Commission are to:
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inquire into and investigate complaints regarding procedures with a view to ensuring compliance with the provisions of the Constitution relating to fundamental rights and to promoting respect for, and observance of, fundamental rights
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inquire into and investigate complaints regarding infringements or imminent infringements of fundamental rights, and to provide for resolution thereof by conciliation and mediation
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advise and assist the government in formulating legislation and administrative directives and procedures in furtherance of the promotion and protection of fundamental rights
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made recommendations to the Government regarding measures which should be taken to ensure that national laws and administrative practices are in accordance with international human rights norms and standards
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make recommendations to the Government on the need to subscribe or accede to treaties and other international instruments in the field of human rights
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promote awareness of and provide education in relation to human rights.
Commission Members
Deshamanya Justice S. Anandacoomaraswamy
Chairman
Justice D. Jayawickrama
Commissioner
Ms N.D. Abeywardena
Commissioner
Mr M.T.M. Bafiq
Commissioner
Mr Mahanama Tilakaratne
Commissioner
Legal Framework
Enabling legislation
Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka Act, No. 21 (1996)
English
Sinhala
Tamil
