Sri Lanka will begin investigations into complaints of enforced disappearances early this year, Justice and National Integration Minister Harshana Nanayakkara said.
Speaking at a New Year ceremony at the Justice Ministry on Thursday, Nanayakkara said restoring social trust through national integration is essential, highlighting the importance of equitable language access, equal public services, respectful law enforcement and inclusive policymaking.
He said recent experiences, including Cyclone Ditwah, underscored the need for unity rather than division, noting that social cohesion can be critical to saving lives during disasters.
“When a citizen feels acknowledged in their own language, treated fairly by the law, and safeguarded irrespective of their identity, it signifies that national integration is in progress,” Nanayakkara said.
The minister said the government plans within the next month to ensure that all forms required for government services are available in all three official languages, as part of efforts to improve access and fairness in public administration.
Nanayakkara said Cyclone Ditwah tested the country’s systems, institutions and citizens, while also highlighting the resilience of the Sri Lankan people.
He noted that the government’s “Rebuilding Sri Lanka” initiative should not be seen as a slogan but as a social obligation.
As the country approaches 2026, Nanayakkara said the government’s objective is to rebuild Sri Lanka in a gradual, inclusive and sustainable manner, with priority given to reconstructing state systems.
He added that reforming the justice system to earn public trust, rather than instill fear, would be a key part of that effort.