The Government has decided to set up an independent Commission for Truth, Unity and Reconciliation.
This Commission will be established through an Act of Parliament, currently in the drafting process as a concept paper in consultation with the stakeholders.
The concept paper, used to prepare the final draft of the Bill for Parliament, will be available for comments to ensure an inclusive process in developing legislation that strengthens and safeguards national unity through truth, transitional justice, reconciliation, reparation and social cohesion.
A key objective of this process is to establish the truth regarding post-conflict grievances of Sri Lankan citizens, facilitating reconciliation, reparation and sustainable peace. The Commission acknowledges every Sri Lankan’s inalienable right to ascertain the truth, a pivotal aspect for individuals and communities to heal from past conflicts.
The Commission aims to ensure and strengthen national unity, peace, rule of law, coexistence, equality, tolerance, respect for diversity and reconciliation among the people of Sri Lanka. This commitment extends to preventing any recurrence of disharmony and future conflict among diverse communities.
The Commission is expected to review, consider and facilitate the implementation of recommendations made by past Commissions related to Sri Lanka’s post-conflict reconciliation efforts, including the Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation Commission (LLRC).
The Government is committed to ensuring that the proposed Commission acts impartially, free from any political influence. With a victim-centric ethos, the Commission will be a sanctuary for voices to be heard, pain to be acknowledged and dignity to be reclaimed, providing a closure to victims and paving the path for national unity and social cohesion.
Pending the enactment of the proposed new law, the Government will set up an interim body named the Interim Secretariat for Truth and Reconciliation Mechanism (ISTRM).
