The aftermath of the conflict which occurred in the North and the East of Sri Lanka is reflected in the ongoing challenges. Efforts towards reconciliation and addressing grievances persist on several fronts. However, many victims have not found closure to the deep suffering they have experienced. In this context, uncovering the truth and acknowledging the violations are essential for societal healing and non-recurrence.
Anchored in the right of all Sri Lankans to know the truth, a truth-seeking mechanism is envisioned to contribute to national unity, rule of law, reconciliation, and non-recurrence of disharmony and violence.
On the 16th of January 2023, the Cabinet of Ministers took the initial steps for the operationalisation of a Truth and Reconciliation Mechanism.
Pursuant to this, on 29th of May 2023, the Cabinet of Ministers approved a joint proposal by the Minister of Justice, Prison Affairs and Constitutional Reforms and the Minister of Foreign Affairs for the establishment of a truth and reconciliation mechanism in Sri Lanka, by way of setting up an Interim Secretariat to proceed with the relevant foundational work.
As an impartial and independent truth-seeking mechanism, the proposed Commission for Truth, Unity and Reconciliation (CTUR) will focus on investigating incidents of damage, loss, or violation of fundamental rights in Sri Lanka, connected with the conflict that took place in the Northern and Eastern Provinces from 1983 to 2009, or its aftermath. The CTUR will provide an official platform and opportunity for truth telling, as well as to investigate, inquire and make recommendations for effective remedies and redress. The CTUR will be an independent entity established by an Act of Parliament.
The ISTRM recognises that the success of a truth and reconciliation mechanism is possible only when all citizens are engaged as equal partners in this process to address post-conflict grievances. As part of the foundational work, the ISTRM has conducted extensive consultations at district levels in order to obtain the suggestions and recommendations from relevant stakeholders to refine the CTUR bill. In addition, the ISTRM is compiling a country study report on the lessons learnt and the way forward based on the selected truth mechanisms from several post-conflict jurisdictions to guide Sri Lanka's path towards establishing sustainable peace and unity. The ISTRM will develop the Procedures and Guidelines in order to enable the independent commissioners of the CTUR in implementing its mandate.