Deputy Minister Arun Hemachandra participated in a high-level briefing session held yesterday (15) at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism with a delegation from the United Nations Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture (SPT), currently on an official visit to Sri Lanka.
The meeting was attended by Vijitha Herath and Harshana Nanayakkara, along with senior officials representing relevant ministries, departments, and state institutions.
The SPT delegation is headed by Aisha Shujune Muhammad and includes Jakub Julian Czepek, Nika Kvaratskhelia, and Anica Tomsic.
The delegation’s visit, taking place from June 15 to 24, 2026, is part of Sri Lanka’s ongoing engagement with United Nations human rights mechanisms and its commitments under the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture.
During the discussions, Sri Lankan authorities reaffirmed the Government’s zero-tolerance policy toward torture and ill-treatment. Officials emphasized ongoing efforts to strengthen institutional standards, improve conditions in places of detention and care, and protect the dignity and rights of individuals deprived of their liberty.
The engagement is expected to support practical reforms, enhance accountability mechanisms, and further promote transparency and respect for human rights across state institutions. Government representatives noted that continued cooperation with international human rights bodies remains an important component of Sri Lanka’s commitment to upholding international standards and fulfilling its treaty obligations.
