Volker Türk responds to civil society letters, pledges support for accountability and victim-centered reforms
United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has responded to a coalition of Sri Lankan civil society groups and signatories following his recent visit to the island, reaffirming his commitment to advancing truth, justice, and accountability.
In a letter dated 5 August 2025, Türk thanked civil society representatives for their communications sent on 14 July and 4 August, which raised urgent concerns ahead of his upcoming report to the 60th session of the UN Human Rights Council.
Accountability and Independent Mechanisms
Türk emphasized the need for independent and effective accountability mechanisms to address both historical and ongoing human rights violations and international crimes. He acknowledged the deep frustration expressed by victims and survivors, and underscored that justice must be credible and impartial.
“I share your view that independent, effective, and credible accountability mechanisms are essential to address these issues meaningfully,” he wrote.
Victim-Centered Priorities
Drawing on his meetings with victims and survivors during the visit, Türk highlighted several urgent priorities:
- Release of military-held lands and an end to new land seizures
- Release of long-term detainees and an end to arbitrary detention
- Cessation of surveillance and harassment targeting civil society
- Support for memorialization initiatives honoring victims
- Preservation of forensic evidence, especially in mass grave investigations
- Action on enforced disappearances, a long-standing demand of affected families
These issues, he noted, are not only legal obligations but moral imperatives tied to dignity, reconciliation, and healing.
Continued Engagement
Türk concluded by expressing his commitment to working closely with civil society actors in Sri Lanka and internationally, stating that their voices are vital to shaping a just and inclusive future.
“I remain committed to working with civil society partners to advance truth, justice, and accountability in Sri Lanka,” he affirmed.
The High Commissioner’s letter comes amid renewed calls from Tamil political parties and civil society groups for international action, including a referral of Sri Lanka to the International Criminal Court (ICC) for war crimes and genocide.
The letter.
Letter from Volker Türk
United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights
Date: 5 August 2025
To: Civil society representatives and other signatories
Dear Colleagues,
Thank you for your letters dated 14 July and 4 August 2025, which I received following my recent visit to Sri Lanka. I appreciate your continued engagement and the perspectives you have shared, especially as I prepare my report for the upcoming 60th session of the Human Rights Council.
Your concerns underscore the critical importance of accountability for both past and ongoing human rights violations and international crimes. I share your view that independent, effective, and credible accountability mechanisms are essential to address these issues meaningfully.
During my visit, I met with victims and survivors whose testimonies reaffirmed the urgency of:
- Releasing lands held by the military and halting new land seizures
- Releasing long-term detainees and ending arbitrary detention
- Ceasing surveillance and harassment of civil society actors
- Supporting initiatives for memorialization and recognition of victims
- Preserving evidence related to mass graves and enforced disappearances
These are not only matters of justice but also of dignity and reconciliation. I remain committed to working with civil society partners to advance truth, justice, and accountability in Sri Lanka.
Yours sincerely,
Volker Türk
United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights
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