ONHCR insist revision of Anti-terrorism BillNewsThe UN human rights office has urged Sri Lankan authorities to revise the Anti-Terrorism Bill to align with the island’s international human rights obligations. The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) expressed concerns about the proposed Bill to replace the Prevention of Terrorism Act in Sri Lanka, issuing a statement on Friday (19). The UN human rights office further criticizes the Anti-Terrorism Bill for broad definitions of terrorism, limited judicial guarantees, and limitations on the Human Rights Commission’s visit to detention sites. The OHCHR cautions that if passed, the Bill would grant excessive executive powers to restrict rights, with no safeguard against abuse. The authorities have been requested by the OHHCR to engage with civil society and stakeholders to revise the Bill in line with Sri Lanka’s international human rights obligations.

Source: Sunday Times January 20, 2024 19:37 UTC