UN calls for urgent prison reforms after Negombo prison tragedy

Says protecting prison staff and inmates is a fundamental State responsibility  

• Prison officials perform demanding duties in service of the State and the public, and their loss is deeply felt.  Inmates who were killed or injured were under the care and protection of the State

The United Nations has called for urgent improvements to Sri Lanka’s prison system following the deadly violence at Negombo Prison this week, stressing that overcrowding, outdated practices and poor detention conditions remain critical challenges that require sustained investment and reform.  

In a statement issued yesterday, the UN Resident Coordinator expressed profound sorrow over the incident, which claimed at least 27 lives and left more than 100 others injured, while extending condolences to the families of the victims and wishing those injured a speedy recovery.  

The UN said prison officials perform demanding duties in service of the State and the public, and their loss is deeply felt. It also stressed that inmates who were killed or injured were under the care and protection of the State, emphasizing that both correctional staff and prisoners deserve greater protection.  

“The responsibility to ensure that protection is fundamental to the State,” the statement said.  

The UN noted that the tragedy underscores the need for continued investment in Sri Lanka’s prison system, pointing to longstanding concerns over overcrowding, outdated prison practices and poor conditions in places of detention.