The Human Rights Watch organization has issued a stark warning, asserting that Sri Lanka is regressing in terms of human rights and social justice standards. Blaming misgovernance and a lack of accountability for the country’s ongoing economic crisis, Human Rights Watch criticizes the government, led by President Ranil Wickremesinghe, for prioritizing the suppression of dissent over addressing critical issues.
Meenakshi Ganguly, Deputy Asian Director at Human Rights Watch, expresses deep concern over Sri Lanka’s trajectory under the Wickremesinghe administration, citing a pattern of regressive policies and increasing repression.
As Sri Lanka prepares for a presidential election later this year, the report highlights President Wickremesinghe’s implementation of new laws aimed at curbing criticism and stifling dissent. Human Rights Watch underscores the urgent need for attention to human rights and social justice in Sri Lanka, urging the government to prioritize accountability and transparency to address the country’s challenges effectively.
For further details, refer to the full announcement on Human Rights Watch’s website: https://www.hrw.org/news/2024/02/14/under-ranil-wickremesinghe-sri-lanka-going-fast-reverse