Concerns over tensions after Easter Sunday attacks: UNHR Chief

24 June 2019 11:43 pm - 10 - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

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UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet today said that she was concerned that the terrorist attacks two months ago in Sri Lanka have fuelled increasing tensions.

“The lack of a unified approach between the President and the Government regarding key human rights concerns risks adverse impact on the effectiveness of the security forces in ensuring safety and protection for all,” she said making her opening statement at the 41st session of the Human Rights Council.

She also said that she was disturbed by reports of anti-Muslim attacks; recent statements by some religious leaders inciting violence. “I am disturbed by reports of anti-Muslim attacks; recent statements by some religious leaders inciting violence constitute worrying early warning indicators that should be addressed. While some counter-terrorism measures are warranted, the state of emergency should be of minimal duration, and a priority should be given to bringing political, religious and other community leaders together to address root causes of all forms of violence and discrimination.”

“In this context, I express my support to the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka for its commendable and courageous role,” she said.

She further said: “We must be more vigilant in the face of the hatred and violent extremism which feed off each other. But we need to act both with great urgency and great care. As the new UN Strategy and Action Plan on Hate Speech emphasises, the misuse of excessively broad restrictions on freedom of speech may lead to silencing critics and the intensification of attacks on the press and human rights advocates.”

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Comments - 10

Dilshan Tuesday, 25 June 2019 01:37 AM

Stating the obvious, but as we are a low-middle income country, she has to flex her muscles - UN-style! Definitely more pressing global issues she should be addressing....

Jude Tuesday, 25 June 2019 03:03 AM

Dear Commish Michelle !!! When you getta chance, can you explain why Americans left the UNHRC !!???

Jude Tuesday, 25 June 2019 03:16 AM

Well the US Ambassador to UN Nikki Haley While announcing the decision US Withdrawal from UNHRC last year calling the council a "Hypocritical and Self-Serving Organization" !! Oouch !!! Not good!!

Jude Tuesday, 25 June 2019 03:39 AM

Mind you, last YEAR, Americans noted the UNHRC is the world's top Human Rights watch dog but it's current 47 member states includes Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Venezuela and Phillippines, akin, some critics might say, to the Fox guarding Henhouse!!???

Mangala Tuesday, 25 June 2019 04:25 AM

Ha Ha not a word for the innocent worshippers who fell victims. Typical of human right champions. Aleays take the side of perporators.

MSM Thahir Tuesday, 25 June 2019 05:43 AM

It's Not only clergy but politicos too talking of false facts about muslims that is leading ordinary Sinhalese mass against muslims. Ex. WIMAL, LOKUGE, BANDULA, SB, Leader of pivithuru helps erumaya and news papers like divaina and telemedia

ANTON Tuesday, 25 June 2019 07:16 AM

FINALLY THE WHOLE WORLD HAS REALIZED AND HAS BEEN MADE AWARE OF THE ROOT CAUSE BEHIND THE EASTER ATTACK.

A Tuesday, 25 June 2019 07:59 AM

Seriously are u crazy . Or just want create a worse situation in Srilanka. Any mention on innocent people who died u forgot

Anmampan Tuesday, 25 June 2019 08:04 AM

Thanks Madam. You should also play a roll in keeping these racist out of politics in Sri Lanka.

Sunil Miguntenna Kariyakarawana Tuesday, 25 June 2019 12:38 PM

Another preacher! after London bombing 108 mosques were attacted, where was the UN and this lady? This woman needs to be realistic. They are looking for something from SL rather than being realistic? get real, be fair don't preach??

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Concerns over tensions after Easter Sunday attacks: UNHR Chief

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