📈 Cabinet Nod for Inter-Ministerial Standing Committee on Human Rights

The Cabinet of Ministers has approved the establishment of a permanent Inter-Ministerial Standing Committee on Human Rights to strengthen Sri Lanka's domestic follow-up, coordination, and international reporting mechanisms. • Key Mandate & Scope - Establishes a multi-stakeholder framework bringing together relevant Government ministries, departments, and state institutions. - Designed to systematically monitor progress, coordinate domestic human rights initiatives, and meet international reporting commitments. - Supports institutional continuity in Sri Lanka's engagement with global human rights bodies. • International Framework & UN Engagement - Sri Lanka is a state party to 9 core UN international human rights treaties and 5 optional protocols. - Following its 4th Universal Periodic Review (UPR) cycle in 2023, the committee will coordinate the submission of a voluntary mid-term report prior to the next review cycle. • Governance & Sponsorship - Joint resolution submitted by Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment & Tourism Minister Vijitha Herath and Justice & National Integration Minister Harshana Nanayakkara. - Confirmed by Cabinet Spokesperson Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa to ensure systematic follow-up across state channels.