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Tamil Eelam Freedom Charter
The creation of an independent and sovereign State of Tamil Eelam remains the only viable option to lead a life with security, dignity and equality, both individually and collectively.


The Orphan-State of TamilEelam

Video: Reaction from South India home to 70m Tamils !
Warning: Disturbing images


"There are legitimate issues raised by the Tamil community and they have a legitimate desire to control their own lives, to rule their own destinies, and to govern themselves in their homeland.''

U.S. Assistant Secretary of
State for South and Central Asian Affairs, Richard Boucher


Have No Fear !

Those who would deny the Tamils their rights use the language of terrorism to demonise and discredit our legitimate grievances

Sri Lanka
"Indeed, it is an enduring scandal that there have been virtually no convictions of government officials for killing Tamils, and many Tamils doubt that the rule of law will protect their lives."

United Nations


The Plight of Eelam Tamils

Video: Genocide No More Prime Minister!

Tamil Declaration for Self Determination
Vaddukoddai Resolution-1976

Tamil Eelam
Demand in International Law
The UN International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (G.A Resolution 2200 of 1966) in Article 1 states: "All peoples have the right of self-determination. By virtue of that right they freely determine their political status and freely pursue their economic, social and cultural development."

Declaration of Independence


1918 - 2005

'Dedication to
CJT Thamotheram
Late Patron'




  :: News
Sri Lanka's Questionable Reconciliation Week
[ The Huffington Post ] [ 31 Dec 2016 02:30 GMT ]

A reconciliation week is unlikely to truly help conflict-affected people or to meaningfully promote reconciliation. [Full Story]

Sasikala: The 'new mother' of Tamil Nadu politics
[ BBC ] [ 30 Dec 2016 00:07 GMT ]

Sasikala's political and administrative acumen is still largely unknown. [Full Story]

India: Madras high court questions Jayalalitha death cause
[ BBC ] [ 29 Dec 2016 15:28 GMT ]

She was admitted to a local hospital for more than three months, but little information was given about her health. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka At A Crossroads - A Tamil Perspective
[ CT ] [ 28 Dec 2016 01:02 GMT ]

It is now obvious that Sri Lanka wouldn't have made any significant progress by March 2017 in implementing the UNHRC resolution that it co-sponsored. [Full Story]

Sri Lankan Foreign Policy: Diaspora And Lobbying - Analysis
[ Eurasia Review ] [ 27 Dec 2016 03:05 GMT ]

A diaspora has the ability to maneouvre the nation's policy so that it advances their interests. [Full Story]

Christian leaders urge calm and faith in time of 'fear'
[ BBC ] [ 26 Dec 2016 01:46 GMT ]

He quoted Bank of England governor Mark Carney who said globalisation had for many brought "uncertainty" and "low wages, insecure employment, stateless corporation and striking inequalities". [Full Story]

Pope Francis's Christmas message calls for an end to Syrian war
[ BBC ] [ 25 Dec 2016 12:45 GMT ]

Throughout the past year, the Pope has urged compassion towards refugees, reminding Christians that Jesus himself was a migrant. [Queen's Xmas Message]

Sri Lankan court acquits five men in Tamil MP murder trial
[ BBC ] [ 24 Dec 2016 09:41 GMT ]

Nadarajah Raviraj was shot dead in his car in the capital, Colombo, during Sri Lanka's bitter civil war. [Full Story]

Tamil lanka desolate in tragedy but hope remains
[ The Indian Express ] [ 23 Dec 2016 00:35 GMT ]

After J Jayalalithaa's death, Lankan Tamil community that had her support is waiting and watching what would be the next step of her successors. [Full Story]

Had We But World Enough, and Time
[ The Indian Express ] [ 22 Dec 2016 01:15 GMT ]

'When you have the consciousness to understand that you belong to a culture and a history that is being destroyed, you realise it is your duty to be an embodiment of that history and culture. [Full Story]

Everyone accepts need to solve Tamil question, says Ranil
[ The Hindu ] [ 21 Dec 2016 02:58 GMT ]

He said that the project of seeing through major constitutional change would succeed, and that, as part of that process, an enduring devolution-based solution to the Tamil question would be put in place. [Full Story]

UN agency says government torture and abductions continue in Sri Lanka
[ WSWS ] [ 20 Dec 2016 02:58 GMT ]

It is determined to whitewash Colombo's war crimes and other human rights violations. [Full Story]

Wigneswaran says only 5.2% of private lands belonging to Tamils have been returned
[ The New Indian Express ] [ 19 Dec 2016 01:48 GMT ]

Out of the 67,000 acres of private lands of the Tamils seized by the Sri Lankan armed forces during the war, only 3,500 acres have been returned so far. [Full Story]

EU: Don't turn a blind eye to torture in Sri Lanka
[ The Sri Lanka Campaign ] [ 18 Dec 2016 02:14 GMT ]

The EU Commission must remain mindful of the role that GSP+ will surely play in the much broader effort, to ensure that Sri Lanka effectively deals with the legacy of the war through a credible justice and reconciliation process. [Full Story]

Nobody's people of Chirala
[ The Hindu ] [ 17 Dec 2016 00:05 GMT ]

They also have no facility to learn their mother tongue in the schools here. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka's internal war cost US$ 200 billion
[ The New Indian Express ] [ 16 Dec 2016 02:17 GMT ]

The Tamil sense of grievances unaddressed makes the return of separatism and radicalism in another form a matter of time,' he feels. [Full Story]

When Travel Writing Becomes Propaganda: Sri Lanka Edition
[ The Diplomat ] [ 15 Dec 2016 00:02 GMT ]

While it's good that a transitional justice program is in the works, the root causes of the island nation's ethnic conflict remain unresolved. [Full Story]

When a brave few saved hundreds during Lankan war
[ The Times of India ] [ 14 Dec 2016 04:57 GMT ]

The volunteers of TRO saved the children in the bunkers risking their lives during the civil war in Sri Lanka. [Full Story]

Not without my memories
[ The Indian Express ] [ 13 Dec 2016 00:30 GMT ]

What do people take when conflict pushes them out of their homes? [Full Story]

With civil war and a tsunami behind it, Sri Lanka's east coast is opening up to tourism
[ Washington Post ] [ 12 Dec 2016 01:51 GMT ]

It's hard to tell what the current government, elected on a promise to repudiate the corruption of the old regime, may mean for Passikudah. [Full Story]

Remembering and rebuilding
[ Tamil Guardian ] [ 11 Dec 2016 03:39 GMT ]

Sri Lanka's faltering approach over the last year does not bode well for those who wish to see a genuine peace on the island. [Full Story]

North Sri Lankan Chief Minister says Tamils oppose only illegal erection of Buddha statues
[ New Indian Express ] [ 10 Dec 2016 00:36 GMT ]

Statues of the Buddha and the construction of Buddhist temple are being done without consulting the elected Provincial Council. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka's former strongman sets stage for comeback attempt
[ Fox News ] [ 09 Dec 2016 01:17 GMT ]

Sirisena's government has yet to fulfill those promises for an investigation, partly for fear of losing support among Sinhalese, analysts say. [Full Story]

UN urges Sri Lanka to probe ongoing torture, war crimes
[ Reuters ] [ 08 Dec 2016 00:36 GMT ]

"We didn't see evidence that the government is moving on the accountability issues either, the truth commission issues that it promised it would institute," she said. [Full Story]

She was a beacon of hope for lankan tamils
[ The New Indian Express ] [ 07 Dec 2016 05:55 GMT ]

Bold and uncompromising actions were much appreciated by Sri Lankan Tamils who had reposed great faith in her. [Full Story]

Grief and mourning for India's 'iron lady'
[ BBC ] [ 06 Dec 2016 09:09 GMT ]

The central government in Delhi has announced that Tuesday will be a national holiday as a mark of respect and that she will be given a funeral with full state honours. [Full Story]

Tamil icon Jayalalitha dies at 68
[ BBC ] [ 05 Dec 2016 18:41 GMT ]

We have lost a great politician, and a great champion of women's rights." [Full Story]

The volunteers who kept Chennai afloat through the floods
[ BBC ] [ 04 Dec 2016 01:29 GMT ]

On 2 December 2015, the south Indian city of Chennai (Madras) witnessed devastating floods, after receiving the heaviest rainfall it had witnessed in a century. [Full Story]

The Constitution, Transitional Justice and the Budget
[ Tamil Guardian ] [ 03 Dec 2016 00:05 GMT ]

Issues such as Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) to the provincial councils, a key issue for the Tamil diaspora, would be 'possible' as per the Finance Sub-Committee report he added. [Full Story]

Sirisena: devolution key to Sri Lankan reconciliation
[ The Hindu ] [ 02 Dec 2016 01:20 GMT ]

Mr. Sirisena said he was trying to achieve a solution acceptable to all communities and invited all groups to join hands with him to solve the problem. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka: An Ethnocratic State - Preventing Positive Peace
[ Epress ] [ 01 Dec 2016 02:04 GMT ]

If positive peace is to prevail in the island of Sri Lanka, it is crucial to accept and eliminate the ethnocratic policies and practices in Sri Lankan state affairs without further delay. [Full Story PDF]

Sri Lanka: Tamils protest new ethnic cleansing
[ The Greenleft ] [ 30 Nov 2016 00:11 GMT ]

The Sri Lankan government has long had a policy of establishing Sinhalese settlements in traditionally Tamil areas of the northern and eastern parts of the island. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka says no deadline to address allegations on war
[ Xinhua ] [ 29 Nov 2016 03:31 GMT ]

Sri Lanka was once on the verge of an economic embargo. [Full Story]

Looking at Some Important Issues in Sri Lanka
[ Huffington Post ] [ 28 Nov 2016 03:31 GMT ]

Progress has been slow - particularly in terms of ensuring accountability for international crimes. [Full Story]

Jaffna University marks Maaveerar Naal
[ Tamil Guardian ] [ 27 Nov 2016 21:39 GMT ]

Students and staff at the University of Jaffna marked Maaveerar Naal (Tamil national remembrance day) on Friday, lighting candles in memory of those who gave their lives to the Tamil struggle. [Full Story]
[A Maveerar Day Message]

People will get chance to approve Constitution: Sri Lanka PM Ranil Wickremesinghe
[ The Indian Express ] [ 26 Nov 2016 02:30 GMT ]

The government expects the new Constitution to address the demand of Tamil minorities for political recognition. [Full Story]

Flavours from an island nation
[ The Hindu ] [ 25 Nov 2016 01:55 GMT ]

Its colonial past and mixed heritage have played a role in shaping it to its current state. [Full Story]

NORTH SOUTH DIALOGUE - Press Conference Of the Tamil People's Council in Colombo
[ SL Guardian ] [ 24 Nov 2016 00:11 GMT ]

Our objective was to convey to our friends and allies, through a mass rally, that the concerns of the Tamil people are yet to be substantially addressed, and that justice continues to be denied to us. [Full Story]

Inaugural Meeting of the Canadian-Tamil Parliamentary Friendship Group
[ TWG ] [ 23 Nov 2016 04:55 GMT ]

Several items of business were passed at this inaugural meeting, including a Constitution, election of the Executive and consensus to build relations with groups such as the All Party Parliamentary Group for Tamils in the United Kingdom. [Full Story PDF]

Congratulations to President-Elect Donald Trump: Tamils for Trump
[ EIN News ] [ 22 Nov 2016 00:05 GMT ]

Tamils need a political solution and justice to live in their homeland with safety and security. [Full Story]

UN Human Rights Committee orders Sri Lanka to compensate Canadian torture victim
[ National Post ] [ 21 Nov 2016 01:24 GMT ]

A Toronto man who was imprisoned and tortured while visiting Sri Lanka must be compensated for the abuses he suffered, the United Nations Human Rights Committee has ruled. [Full Story]

Trump in the U.S., Brexit in UK Worry Sri Lanka
[ The Citizen ] [ 20 Nov 2016 01:05 GMT ]

There is a need for the government to be more transparent with the people, and to consult with them, and explain to them its plans for the future. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka's UN Fiasco
[ Huffington Post ] [ 19 Nov 2016 02:44 GMT ]

Sri Lanka was recently under the microscope of the committee and, to put it mildly, things did not go smoothly. [Full Story]

UN probe sought on torture by Sri Lankan security forces
[ The Indian Express ] [ 18 Nov 2016 00:02 GMT ]

'The international community, including the UN is under an obligation to ensure that the Government of Sri Lanka honours its commitments made in the Human Rights Council in regard to the transitional justice programme in Sri Lanka. [Full Story]

Sri Lankan official dodges UN questions over alleged torture
[ The Washington Post ] [ 17 Nov 2016 03:27 GMT ]

The U.N.'s Human Rights Council last year unanimously approved a resolution to increase post-war accountability and reconciliation in Sri Lanka. [Full Story]

A Reflection on conflicts in Sri Lanka
[ The Guardian ] [ 16 Nov 2016 02:19 GMT ]

Let us hope that in the land of our heritage, the sounds of guns and bombs will never be heard again. [Full Story]

Under the Radar: Tourism in Sri Lanka at risk from military
[ Global Risk Insights ] [ 15 Nov 2016 01:22 GMT ]

Sri Lanka's military is undercutting local and foreign companies, and sowing the seeds for future violence as the Tamil minority continues to be marginalized. [Full Story]

Age Of Donald Trump Heralds A New World Order Built Around Hard-Edged Nationalism
[ Huffington Post ] [ 14 Nov 2016 00:02 GMT ]

This time what was being heard around the world has finally found its echo in America. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka: Call for autonomous unit in North-East renewed by GTF
[ SL Guardian ] [ 13 Nov 2016 03:08 GMT ]

The Global Tamil Forum (GTF) on behalf of the Sri Lankan Tamils resident overseas has called for the creation of an ‘Autonomous Tamil Region' (ATR) in a re-merged Northern and Eastern Province to address their grievances. [Full Story]

Will Sri Lanka's new constitution retain the mistakes that led to 25 years of civil war?
[ Scroll ] [ 12 Nov 2016 01:18 GMT ]

The armed forces were accused of planting Buddhist symbols in Tamil regions like Jaffna and Trincomalee, leading to protests from the Tamil National Alliance. [Full Story]

Solving problems of Tamils is my obligation: Sirisena
[ The Hindu ] [ 11 Nov 2016 05:01 GMT ]

People of the south are scared of the word ‘federal'. People of the north are scared of the word ‘unitary'. [Full Story]

AUSTRALIA REFUSING TO ACCEPT ASYLUM SEEKERS OR SENDING THEM BACK
[ TWG ] [ 10 Nov 2016 01:21 GMT ]

What is happening to the Tamils and other asylum seekers amounts to refoulement under the UN Refugee Convention. [Full Story PDF]

Consistency Seen in Trump Foreign Policy Positions
[ Voice of America ] [ 09 Nov 2016 21:51 GMT ]

"We will seek common ground, not hostility; relationships, not conflict," he said. [Full Story]

US election result: Clinton says Trump must have chance to lead
[ BBC ] [ 09 Nov 2016 19:55 GMT ]

The president-elect has said his immediate priorities are restoring the country's infrastructure and doubling its economic growth. [Full Story]

Sri Lankan Police Shooting of Two Students More of the Same
[ Human Rights Watch ] [ 08 Nov 2016 02:05 GMT ]

Sri Lanka is due to appear before the United Nations Committee Against Torture and is expected to make a case about its security sector reforms - something it agreed to take on after a 2015 UN Human Rights Council review. [Full Story]

Review: The Island Nation, The Arcola Theatre
[ A Younger Theatre ] [ 07 Nov 2016 02:24 GMT ]

This sensory overload gives a snapshot of the devastation launching into the political negotiations and the difficulties in achieving peace. [Full Story]

North-East must be recognized as Tamil homeland
[ Daily Mirror ] [ 06 Nov 2016 01:55 GMT ]

The idea of nationhood comes organically. [Full Story]

Erasing The Past: Repression of Memorialization in North-East Sri Lanka
[ Pearl ] [ 05 Nov 2016 01:44 GMT ]

Efforts by victims and survivors to commemorate the past are suppressed by restrictions on freedom of assembly, oppressive state surveillance, and the presence of competing memorialization projects. [Full Story]

EU Delegation Urges Sri Lanka to Improve Human Rights
[ The New York Times ] [ 04 Nov 2016 00:10 GMT ]

The success of Sri Lanka's application to get back the trade concessions depends on meeting human rights requirements set by the EU. [Full Story]

Lanka sacks spy chief after unrest in Tamil north
[ Deccan Herald ] [ 03 Nov 2016 05:14 GMT ]

The move came amid suspicion that the military was backing the terror group named 'Ava Group' operating in the northern Jaffna peninsula. [Full Story]

Emerging Scenarios Of An Independent Thamil Eelam
[ The Sunday Leader ] [ 02 Nov 2016 01:37 GMT ]

No nation would remain politically subjugated, militarily occupied and physically degraded forever! [Full Story]

January is Officially Declared as Tamil Heritage Month in Canada
[ Tamil Culture ] [ 01 Nov 2016 01:01 GMT ]

The motion will 'recognize the contributions that Tamil-Canadians have made to Canadian society, the richness of the Tamil language and culture. [Full Story]

In the wash-up, Sri Lankan asylum loser wins
[ The Australian ] [ 31 Oct 2016 00:03 GMT ]

The Tamils of the north lived in a totalitarian state within Sri Lanka. [Full Story]

Public Perceptions on Constitutional Reform in Sri Lanka
[ The Diplomat ] [ 30 Oct 2016 01:05 GMT ]

Colombo's performance thus far leaves a lot to be desired. [Report PDF]

How Sri Lanka Demonstrates the Limits of the UN System
[ The National Interest ] [ 29 Oct 2016 01:05 GMT ]

There are legitimate worries that, if Sri Lanka falls off the council's formal agenda, then Colombo may be even less inclined to follow through on its previous commitments. [Full Story]

The Lankan example
[ Dawn ] [ 28 Oct 2016 00:23 GMT ]

Sri Lanka is realising that ending a war doesn't equal peace. It only represents a window of opportunity. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka: Separatists or Minorities?
[ The Diplomat ] [ 27 Oct 2016 03:44 GMT ]

The government has done little to credibly identify and address the root causes of the conflict, despite calls by local minority political parties and many foreign governments for a political settlement. [Full Story]

The Story of a Brief Marriage by Anuk Arudpragasam review - love and war in Sri Lanka
[ The Guardian UK ] [ 26 Oct 2016 01:26 GMT ]

A debut novel which raises timely questions about how we regard the suffering of others. [Full Story]

Royal Borough of Kingston twins with Jaffna
[ Tamil Guardian ] [ 25 Oct 2016 02:05 GMT ]

The move to twin the two regions drew support from all political parties in the UK. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka arrests police over Tamil student deaths
[ Daily Times ] [ 24 Oct 2016 03:15 GMT ]

The latest incident in Jaffna came a day after a UN human rights expert asked Colombo to take urgent measures to 'clearly demonstrate' its commitment to protect minorities. [Full Story]

Meet highlighting Tamil culture and tradition from tomorrow
[ The Hindu ] [ 23 Oct 2016 00:03 GMT ]

'As the Tamils have spread over different parts of the world, the conference will deliberate the impact of Tamil tradition and culture on other countries. [Full Story]

Tamils in Sri Lanka feel pessimistic due to lack of reconciliation: UK Global Tamil Forum
[ The Indian Express ] [ 22 Oct 2016 01:42 GMT ]

The group appealed to the Lankan government to embark on focussed and targeted initiatives towards accountability, political resolution and reconciliation. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka: UN rights expert urges Government to take concrete steps to protect minorities
[ UN News Centre ] [ 21 Oct 2016 02:02 GMT ]

'In order to achieve peaceful co-existence after the long devastating civil war, a comprehensive, well-planned and well-coordinated truth, reconciliation, healing and accountability process must take place. [Full Story]

UN official urges Sri Lanka to take stronger measures to protect minorities
[ Daily Mail UK ] [ 20 Oct 2016 06:11 GMT ]

Sri Lanka's government must "clearly demonstrate" its political will and commitment to better protect the Indian Ocean island's minorities by taking urgent steps to resolve post-war issues. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka: Too much On The India Plate, But Too Little Take-Away Yet? - Analysis
[ Eurasia Review ] [ 19 Oct 2016 05:42 GMT ]

There was no mention in either Delhi or Goa about any interactions between the two sides on Sri Lanka's ethnic issue, accountability probe', power-devolution and Constitution-making. [Full Story]

Devolving power among other changes in Lanka's new charter:TNA
[ Business Standard ] [ 18 Oct 2016 02:33 GMT ]

The Tamil minority envisages political reform to address their long standing political grievances in the new Constitution. [Full Story]

Swiss an excellent model for Sri Lanka: Sampanthan
[ Ceylon News ] [ 17 Oct 2016 02:27 GMT ]

Sampanthan said that there were many lessons which Sri Lanka could learn from Switzerland in terms of power devolution and peaceful co-existence. [Full Story]

A Tamil Diaspora Perspective on Sri Lanka
[ International Policy Digest ] [ 16 Oct 2016 00:09 GMT ]

The TNA should recognize the power of the people and use that people's power and that of the international community to move forward. [Full Story]

Book on why the British Left Tamil's Stranded
[ TWG ] [ 15 Oct 2016 20:58 GMT ]

The British knew that the Tamils in SL looked upon India as Mother India. [Full Story]

'Hard Brexit' or 'no Brexit' for Britain - Tusk
[ BBC ] [ 14 Oct 2016 00:04 GMT ]

"The brutal truth is that Brexit will be a loss for all of us. There will be no cakes on the table. For anyone. There will be only salt and vinegar." [Full Story]

Portugal's Antonio Guterres elected UN secretary general
[ BBC ] [ 13 Oct 2016 17:51 GMT ]

"He is perhaps best known where it counts most - on the frontlines of armed conflict and humanitarian suffering," Mr Ban said. [Full Story]

Can Sri Lanka Hold On to Its Fragile Peace?
[ National Geographic Society ] [ 12 Oct 2016 01:13 GMT ]

Seven years after a brutal civil war, the South Asian nation faces the aftermath: the tens of thousands homeless or missing. [Full Story]

The fraught road to justice: Sri Lankan victims of sexual violence
[ Open Democracy ] [ 11 Oct 2016 03:31 GMT ]

The Sri Lankan state must begin to engage with the voices of Sri Lanka's women who have been brutalised and left to navigate a fraught system. [Full Story]

Tamil National Alliance fears law to replace anti-terror act may be old wine in a new bottle
[ New Indian Express ] [ 10 Oct 2016 00:55 GMT ]

'It may even be worse than the PTA going by the influence of the Security Establishment on government's thinking on these matters,' TNA's spokesman and MP, M.A.Sumanthiran, told Express. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka: Tamils demand return of occupied land
[ Green Left ] [ 09 Oct 2016 02:26 GMT ]

Settlements made up of members of the Sinhalese ethnic majority are being established in Tamil areas. [Full Story]

Tamils resort to nationalism to shore up eroding political base
[ Asian Correspondent ] [ 08 Oct 2016 01:01 GMT ]

TNA members in the committees of the constitutional assembly appear to pussyfoot on pushing for a meaningful federal constitution. [Full Story]

Notes on peace from northern Sri Lanka
[ DNA India ] [ 07 Oct 2016 03:11 GMT ]

A peace that does not deliver safety, guarantee justice and build a road to everyday well-being is a peace likely moving in reverse mode. [Full Story]

UN rights expert to visit Sri Lanka to assess current situation of minorities
[ UN High Commissioner for Human Rights ] [ 06 Oct 2016 00:45 GMT ]

'Experience has shown that the recognition and promotion of minority rights are critical, if not requisite, in achieving long-lasting peace and reconciliation. [Full Story]

Protests of Sri Lankan Tamils must not be dismissed as extremism
[ Two Circles ] [ 05 Oct 2016 12:10 GMT ]

It is thus urgent and imperative that the process is made open and transparent to succeed in providing a sustainable political solution that finally gives the Tamil people their political aspirations and rights. [Full Story]

Asylum seekers share stories, food at weekly feasts
[ SBS ] [ 04 Oct 2016 01:50 GMT ]

The cooks at Tamil Feasts have faced discrimination, detention and uncertainty. [Full Story]

India's disturbing Oscar entry takes on police torture
[ BBC ] [ 03 Oct 2016 03:37 GMT ]

A thriller in Tamil language has been chosen as India's official entry to the Best Foreign Language Film at next year's Oscars. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka: Tamils rally in Jaffna against occupation, ethnic cleansing
[ Green Left ] [ 02 Oct 2016 02:08 GMT ]

The declaration called for recognition of Tamils as a distinct nation with the right of self-determination. [Full Story]

Destitution and Desperation in North Eastern Sri Lanka - An Inevitable Road To Women Being Abused!
[ TWG Editorial ] [ 01 Oct 2016 00:25 GMT ]

The issue requires a very urgent united effort from all the local, national and international agencies and governments before the situation gets worse and the sheer frustrations of the young Tamils could lead to a recurrence of old turbulence. [Full Story]

AI: Keep Victims at the Centre of Justice, Truth and Reparation Efforts
[ Amnesty International ] [ 30 Sep 2016 02:03 GMT ]

Public consultations, the bedrock on which Sri Lanka's transitional justice process must be built, are underway. [Full Report PDF]

Political justice is not enough to rebuild Sri Lanka
[ Reuters ] [ 29 Sep 2016 02:14 GMT ]

The politics were rooted in economic and social disenfranchisement of the Tamil minority by the Sinhala majority. [Full Story]

Tamils stage protest to highlight issues in Sri Lanka
[ Deccan Herald ] [ 28 Sep 2016 00:34 GMT ]

"The TNA pledged Tamils a federal solution at the last election. So the Tamils can be only happy with a federal solution by merging the north and east," [Full Story]

Book Review: A Long Watch - War, Captivity and Return in Sri Lanka
[ DNA ] [ 27 Sep 2016 01:27 GMT ]

It eschews the majoritarian bias that vitiated the island nation's politics, society and vital institutions, the armed forces and media. [Full Story]

No room for another ethnic war: Lanka president tells UNGA
[ Business Standard ] [ 26 Sep 2016 00:41 GMT ]

There will not be a repeat of the ethnic war with Tamils. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka's President Misses an Opportunity at the UN
[ The Huffington Post ] [ 25 Sep 2016 19:11 GMT ]

Let's not forget that Colombo continues to drag its feet on a host of war-related issues. [Full Story]

Stateless Tamil refugees from Sri Lanka
[ Governance Now ] [ 24 Sep 2016 02:34 GMT ]

The condition at all the refugee camps is pathetic. [Full Story]

Travails of a war-torn people
[ The Hindu ] [ 23 Sep 2016 02:42 GMT ]

The need of the hour is a movement for social justice combining calls to address the grievances of minorities with demands for decent economic life for the citizenry at large. [Full Story]

EU advised to drop Hamas and Tamil Tigers from terror list
[ BBC ] [ 22 Sep 2016 12:41 GMT ]

She found that the Council incorrectly relied on judgements made by governments without checking that they had the same human rights as the EU. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka's Fleeing Tamils
[ World Policy ] [ 21 Sep 2016 04:24 GMT ]

Fear or experience of severe persecution, in addition to a de facto military occupation in the northern, predominantly Tamil parts of Sri Lanka, appear to be key push factors in the latest waves of emigration. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka: Tamil Body Meet with US Bureaucrats
[ SL Guardian ] [ 20 Sep 2016 02:01 GMT ]

Discussions included ground realities today in Sri Lanka, particularly in relation to the North and East. [Full Story]

India and Sri Lanka in Antiquity
[ The Diplomat ] [ 19 Sep 2016 02:11 GMT ]

Geographic proximity meant that the histories of India and Sri Lanka were intertwined. [Full Story]

Justice and accountability for war related sexual violence in Sri Lanka
[ Open Democracy ] [ 18 Sep 2016 00:25 GMT ]

Pursuing justice for sexual violence in local contexts such as Sri Lanka is still fraught with challenges. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka: Is Transitional Justice in Trouble?
[ The Diplomat ] [ 17 Sep 2016 02:05 GMT ]

For Sri Lanka's transitional justice process, the coming months are crucial. [Full Story]

'The Story of A Brief Marriage' Imagines the Life of Persecuted Tamils in Sri Lanka
[ The Wire ] [ 16 Sep 2016 04:09 GMT ]

The Story of a Brief Marriage asks if life is worth the misery of living. [Full Story]

TRANSITIONAL JUSTICE & RECONCILIATION: VOICES OF THE AFFECTED
[ Sri Lanka Briefing Notes ] [ 15 Sep 2016 05:22 GMT ]

Many issues are unresolved and demand the Government's attention. [Full Story]

Mama's Boys: An irreverent take on India's Mahabharat
[ BBC ] [ 14 Sep 2016 03:47 GMT ]

Mahabharat, created more than 2,000 years ago, is a complex story of the mythological Kurukshetra war. [Full Story]

Revealed: Incredible loophole that means 135 war crime suspects are living freely in the UK
[ Daily Mail UK ] [ 13 Sep 2016 02:28 GMT ]

‘If there are reasonable grounds to suspect that a person here has been involved in acts of torture, war crimes or even genocide in a foreign country then surely the Home Office must be alerting the police and prosecution authorities who have a duty to act. [Full Story]

Tamil Political Prisoners in Sri Lanka: A Road to Nowhere?
[ Lawfare ] [ 12 Sep 2016 00:03 GMT ]

Colombo's failure to act more decisively on political prisoners is unjust, calls into question its commitment to transitional justice, and illustrates that Sri Lanka is far from a clear-cut success story. [Full Story]

Sri Lankan orphans saved by the Missionaries of Charity celebrate the Mother
[ Herald Malaysia ] [ 11 Sep 2016 02:22 GMT ]

The Missionaries of Charity live in the Home of peace', which takes in the sick, the disabled and orphans. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka lacks political will to establish transitional justice'
[ JDS ] [ 10 Sep 2016 00:25 GMT ]

A transitional justice process for war crimes and crimes against humanity in Sri Lanka was adopted by the UN human rights commission in Geneva last year. [Full Story]

"FITTING THE BILL": Incorporating International Crimes into Sri Lankan Law
[ The South Asian Centre for Legal Studies ] [ 09 Sep 2016 03:02 GMT ]

Domestic crimes are fundamentally ill suited to deal with wartime abuses and violations that occurred as a result of the conduct of hostilities. [Full Report PDF]

More Worries Over Sri Lanka's Transitional Justice Process
[ The Diplomat ] [ 08 Sep 2016 01:07 GMT ]

Sri Lanka's incipient transitional justice process is deeply flawed. [Full Story]

Tracing War Missing Still a Dangerous Quest in Sri Lanka
[ IPS News ] [ 07 Sep 2016 04:48 GMT ]

Those doing the tracing on the ground say that they still face intimidation and threats while doing their work. [Full Story]

Tamil peoples' council plans mass protest against installation of Buddha statues in Tamil areas
[ The New Indian Express ] [ 06 Sep 2016 02:56 GMT ]

The demonstrations will ask foreign powers, particularly India and the US, to mount pressure on the Sri Lankan government to meet the longstanding demands of the Tamils. [Full Story]

UN chief says Sri Lanka killings prompted self-scrutiny
[ The Boston Herald ] [ 05 Sep 2016 03:18 GMT ]

Since the end of Sri Lanka's civil war, Ban has been proactive in calling for accountability for rights violations. [Full Story]

U.N. chief urges Sri Lanka to redress wrongs of war
[ Reuters ] [ 04 Sep 2016 00:02 GMT ]

"But more can and should be done to address the legacy of the past and acknowledge the voices of the victims," he told a gathering in Colombo. [Full Story]

UN chief Ban Ki-moon asks Sri Lanka to speed up return of land to Tamils
[ First Post ] [ 03 Sep 2016 00:03 GMT ]

There should be more momentum to ensure lasting peace, seven years after the 37-year civil war ended. [Full Story]

A New Truth Commission for Sri Lanka: Lessons from Other Models
[ Diplomatic Courier ] [ 02 Sep 2016 02:06 GMT ]

Providing remedy for infringed-upon human rights has become one of the fundamental means of realizing the massive framework of human rights developed over the past century. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka: Still Counting the Wounds
[ The Indian Express ] [ 01 Sep 2016 00:05 GMT ]

Scholars argue that the sprouting of Buddhist shrines and icons in the north will inevitably be seen as cultural colonisation and will hamper reconciliation efforts. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka's war-battered Tamils pin hopes on UN visit
[ Daily Mail UK ] [ 31 Aug 2016 11:10 GMT ]

Sri Lanka's army has occupied thousands of hectares in the Jaffna peninsula - the heartland of the country's Tamil minority. [Full Story]

Tamils want devolution, not separation: Lanka oppostion leader
[ India Today ] [ 30 Aug 2016 03:04 GMT ]

"All political parties have joined in to make a new constitution. We expect the new constitution to give us solutions," Sampanthan said. [Full Story]

Caught by the tiger
[ The Hindu ] [ 29 Aug 2016 02:07 GMT ]

Engaging not only for its thrilling description about war, captivity and freedom, but also for its moral courage in imagining the possible future of a reconciled republic. [Full Story]

Why Sri Lanka Doesn't Trust the UN
[ The Diplomat ] [ 28 Aug 2016 00:15 GMT ]

Supranational bodies shall have the authority to take decisive action on matters of human rights if a state party is either unable or unwilling to promote, protect, incorporate, and disseminate international human rights principles. [Full Story]

Corruption, assassination and war crimes: A dream of reconciliation for Sri Lanka
[ ABC News ] [ 27 Aug 2016 01:17 GMT ]

"Without a foreign presence it's very hard to see how people will feel safe to participate and how the government is going to be able to deliver fair and just outcomes and a just process, given the track record it has. [Full Story]

THE LONG SHADOW OF WAR - The Struggle For Justice In Postwar Sri Lanka
[ The Oakland Institute ] [ 26 Aug 2016 00:44 GMT ]

We want to especially acknowledge people who met with us and shared their tragic experiences despite living in an atmosphere of fear and intimidation in the politically charged environment. [Full Story PDF]

Lanka opposition leader seeks Tamil prisoners' release
[ The New Indian Express ] [ 25 Aug 2016 03:09 GMT ]

Tamil National Alliance (TNA) leader R Sampanthan accused the Maithripala Sirisena-led government of not acting promptly since coming to power. [Full Story]

North Sri Lankan CM Wigneswaran boycotts Investment Forum organized by Governor
[ The New Indian Express ] [ 24 Aug 2016 02:45 GMT ]

He said that the elected representatives of the people of the Northern Province ought to have been consulted on the needs of the province before inviting investors. [Full Story]

Sri Lankan Justice Has No Place for Accountable Amnesties'
[ Human Rights Watch ] [ 23 Aug 2016 05:17 GMT ]

The thousands of victims of abuses and their families from all sides in Sri Lanka's war should not be left out of the accountability process. [Full Story]

'Sri Lankan refugees living in inhuman conditions
[ The Times of India ] [ 22 Aug 2016 03:12 GMT ]

It is unfortunate that the country's promise to rehabilitate the Tamil refugee families are yet to be implemented even after three decades. [Full Story]

'Colombo has done nothing to help Tamil war widows'
[ The Times of India ] [ 21 Aug 2016 00:05 GMT ]

The Sangam - 4 founder Jageth Gaspar said, "After the war that ended in May 2009, the livelihood of Tamils, especially women, have become a big question mark. [Full Story]

Diaspora must join reconstruction efforts, say Sri Lankan Tamil MPs
[ The Hindu ] [ 20 Aug 2016 02:14 GMT ]

Tamils living in the North and East of Sri Lanka were not politically empowered now to bring about economic transformation in the war-torn region and look up to Tamils living elsewhere. [Full Story]

Defeat of triumphalism
[ The Hans India ] [ 19 Aug 2016 01:33 GMT ]

The Tamil factor must top the many reasons for Rajapaksa's defeat. [Full Story]

A single that is an ode to Sri Lankan Tamils
[ The Times of India ] [ 18 Aug 2016 04:29 GMT ]

This song is an ode to the Tamil language and has special emphasis on the Sri Lankan Tamil community. [Full Story]

Much to be done says US ambassador after visit to Jaffna
[ Tamil Guardian ] [ 17 Aug 2016 02:01 GMT ]

'This will be difficult but it is necessary, and it is for the good of all Sri Lankans and for the happiness of all of her people,' he added.
[US Embassy Report]

Sri Lanka parliament endorses office to trace wartime missing
[ Reuters ] [ 16 Aug 2016 00:05 GMT ]

"We have brought this to correct the past mistakes in the history," Foreign Minister Mangala Samaraweera presenting the bill told the parliament. [Full Story]

Impunity Reigns In Sri Lanka's August 14, 2006 Bombing Of Schoolgirls
[ Forbes ] [ 15 Aug 2016 01:01 GMT ]

We are no closer to getting justice for these girls or the other tens of thousands of Tamil war victims. [Full Story]

Sencholai massacre: 10 years on, no justice
[ Tamil Guardian ] [ 14 Aug 2016 01:54 GMT ]

Tamils around the world today remember the 10th anniversary of the massacre of 53 school girls. [Full Story]

Political And Legal Confusion Hampers Release Of Tamil Prisoners
[ The New Indian Express ] [ 13 Aug 2016 04:02 GMT ]

The reason for tardiness in the matter of releasing these prisoners appears to be political and legal confusion besides the failure on the part of the government to implement its promise to the UN Human Rights Council. [Full Story]

Accepting Tamils 30 years ago changed Canada
[ Toronto Star ] [ 12 Aug 2016 00:17 GMT ]

Canada must do more to help those in dire need. [Full Story]

Locarno: Sri Lanka's Sivakumaran Pitches House,' Preps Shadows'
[ Yahoo ] [ 11 Aug 2016 00:05 GMT ]

A vision of a post-conflict society in Sri Lanka, the film's major issue, she wrote for the Open Doors brochure, is 'how we deal with memory as a post-conflict society. [Full Story]

Where chef Johnne Phinehas eats Sri Lankan food in the burbs
[ Toronto Life ] [ 10 Aug 2016 05:10 GMT ]

'The war tore apart the province - everyone started to evacuate,' [Full Story]

Christians urge Sri Lanka to adopt a secular constitution
[ UCA News ] [ 09 Aug 2016 02:35 GMT ]

"The constitution should promote harmony and co-existence amongst different religious communities," [Full Story]

Would international community adopt "hands off" policy towards Sri Lanka?
[ The Hindu ] [ 08 Aug 2016 02:58 GMT ]

The pressure from outside will only compel the government to move towards issues concerning the ascertainment of truth, accountability and reparations. [Full Story]

Accountability must be addressed before framing new constitution, says Wigneswaran
[ The New Indian Express ] [ 07 Aug 2016 05:05 GMT ]

The constitution planned by the government will not be drafted to the Tamils' satisfaction unless accountability issues were satisfactorily addressed prior to that. [Full Story]

Many in diaspora approve Liberal push for reconciliation in scarred Sri Lanka
[ Metro News ] [ 06 Aug 2016 03:07 GMT ]

"It's very important for Sri Lanka to come to terms with the brutal war that took place and bring accountability. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka's missing people - Refusing to give up hope
[ The Economist ] [ 05 Aug 2016 05:32 GMT ]

It urged the government to determine the fate of the disappeared; to punish those responsible; and to guarantee truth and reparation. [Full Story]

Tamils for Clinton Congratulates Hillary Clinton and Urges Everyone to Support Her
[ EIN ] [ 04 Aug 2016 00:02 GMT ]

Tamils for Clinton also fondly remembered her visiting the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu in India Ms. Selvi Jeyalalithaa to discuss the plight of Tamils in Sri Lanka. [Full Story]

Singapore looks to Jaffna as it signs trade agreements with Colombo
[ Tamil Guardian ] [ 03 Aug 2016 01:37 GMT ]

The country's deep cultural links with the Tamil people have been particularly longstanding. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka: 10 Years Since Aid Worker Massacre
[ Human Rights Watch ] [ 02 Aug 2016 00:05 GMT ]

Sri Lankan authorities have not brought to justice those responsible for the execution-style slaying of 17 aid workers a decade ago this week. [Full Story]

Sangam IV to feature global Tamil dialogue
[ The Hindu ] [ 01 Aug 2016 00:12 GMT ]

Fr. Jegath Gaspar Raj, founder, said that the Sangam 4, in its third edition, would be a 10-day festival, starting from August 12. [Full Story]

July 1983: Betrayal Of The Absolute Right To Justice
[ CT ] [ 31 July 2016 01:22 GMT ]

The crimes committed in 1983 and the denial of justice thereafter goes beyond the limits of common sense. [Full Story]

On Rights and Justice: Some Perspective from Colombo
[ Huffington Post ] [ 30 July 2016 02:18 GMT ]

The positive progress is politically symbolic and matters a lot to ordinary people in their daily lives. But overall, progress has been too little and painfully slow. [Full Story]

Human Rights Priority Country update report: January to June 2016
[ Foreign & Commonwealth Office UK ] [ 29 July 2016 00:05 GMT ]

Much remains to be done for Sri Lanka to fulfil the commitments made in Resolution 30/1 at the UN Human Rights Council (HRC) in October 2015. [Full Story]

Black July - Setting The Record Straight
[ CT ] [ 28 July 2016 03:59 GMT ]

One that happened in 2009 intended actually to finish off, on a mass scale, the Tamil race in the island. [Full Story]

ICRC presses Sri Lanka on fate of 16,000 war missing
[ Daily Mail UK ] [ 27 July 2016 01:15 GMT ]

The Geneva-based organisation released a 14-month survey conducted across Sri Lanka showing thousands of mainly ethnic Tamils were still searching for their loved ones. [Full Story]

What's Touted As Tamil King Elara's Tomb Is A Fable, Says Historian
[ The New Indian Express ] [ 26 July 2016 02:33 GMT ]

Elala ruled the Anuradhapura area in 2nd.Century BC (205 to 161 BC). [Full Story]

Canada, U.K. renew calls for reconciliation in Sri Lanka
[ The Hindu ] [ 25 July 2016 02:01 GMT ]

Canada and the United Kingdom, both known for having a significant number of Tamil diaspora, have renewed their call to Sri Lanka to fulfill commitments on human rights and democracy. [Full Story]

US Commends Sri Lanka's Reconciliation Measures
[ Voice of America ] [ 24 July 2016 01:02 GMT ]

According to U.N. estimates, up to 100,000 people were killed in the 26-year war, but many more are feared dead, including up to 40,000 civilians in the final months of the fighting. [Full Story]

EU links aid to reconciliation in Sri Lanka
[ The Hindu ] [ 23 July 2016 03:05 GMT ]

The European Union (EU), one of leading trading partners of Sri Lanka, has urged the latter to include reconciliation and good governance under its €210-million development programme. [Full Story]

How Rajinikanth and Kabali mania swept India
[ BBC ] [ 22 July 2016 13:12 GMT ]

A group of Japanese fans have flown all the way to Chennai to catch the "first day first show" of the movie. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka: Cultural dance ends in uncultured behaviour
[ SL Guardian ] [ 21 July 2016 00:33 GMT ]

The fact that the Science Faculty in its entirety functions in English has made it more conducive for students of all races to fit in. [Full Story]

A Photographic Journey Into The Survival Of The Tamils
[ New Matilda ] [ 20 July 2016 03:01 GMT ]

One day my community will build an Eelam Tamil genocide museum. [Full Story]

Book review: Ruins is a haunting debut about family secrets and Sri Lanka's civil war
[ South China Morning Post ] [ 19 July 2016 01:58 GMT ]

It rolls along effortlessly, pulling together centuries of history, tradition and the residual traumas of war, poverty and loneliness. [Full Story]

95 pc of Lankan Tamils Want Federal Constitution, Says Government Panel Member
[ The New Indian Express ] [ 18 July 2016 02:47 GMT ]

There is a thirst for devolution in all Sri Lankan provinces and not just in the minorities‘ dominated Northern and Eastern Provinces. [Full Story]

US acknowledges complications in Sri Lanka war crimes investigation
[ Daily Mail UK ] [ 17 July 2016 05:41 GMT ]

U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Human Rights and Labor Tom Malinowski said international participation in a special court had been emphasised because of "an erosion in the confidence" in Sri Lanka's courts over the years. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka Tamils raise concerns over release of political prisoners
[ The Indian Express ] [ 16 July 2016 04:42 GMT ]

Tamil National Alliance (TNA) sources said they met Biswal and discussed the issue of political prisoners and release of lands in the Tamil-dominated north. [Full Story]

When Mirrors Are Windows
[ Oxford University Press ] [ 15 July 2016 02:29 GMT ]

Scholarly writings sourced from the A.K. Ramanujan Papers archived at the University of Chicago - are studied to illuminate the influence of classical Tamil, medieval bhakti, and oral folk aesthetics and literature on his work. [Full Story]

Tamil is Classical, Classic and Cool!
[ The Quint ] [ 14 July 2016 00:49 GMT ]

The era of Classical Tamil (300 BC - 300 AD). [Full Story]

Call For Sri Lankan Army To Release Record Of War ‘Surrendees'
[ Eurasia Review ] [ 13 July 2016 04:05 GMT ]

It has been almost 7 years since the conclusion of Sri Lanka's civil war and there are still many questions that remain unanswered. [Full Story]

Marie Colvin's family sues Syria over death in Homs
[ BBC ] [ 12 July 2016 01:28 GMT ]

Relatives say they have evidence that she was murdered as part of a policy of deliberately killing journalists. [Full Story]

Thirteen thousand people attend Tamil pilgrimage at Walsingham
[ Eastern Daily Press ] [ 11 July 2016 07:55 GMT ]

People from Sri Lanka and southern India, living Britain, attended the annual Tamil Two pilgrimage at the Catholic National Shrine of Our Lady at Walsingham, at Little Walsingham, near Fakenham. [Full Story]

Global Tamil Forum Calls for More Progress in Sri Lanka
[ The Huffington Post ] [ 10 July 2016 04:58 GMT ]

Over the next nine months, Colombo needs to do much more. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka must stay the course
[ The Hindu ] [ 09 July 2016 02:45 GMT ]

Having set in motion the process for a new Constitution and measures for reconciliation and reform, any loss of momentum now on the part of the government will result in a loss of credibility. [Full Story]

Five Outstanding Women Writers from Sri Lanka
[ Desiblitz ] [ 08 July 2016 03:11 GMT ]

The Cry of the Kite is a collection of profound poetic statements of Jaffna in northern Sri Lanka which describes the modernisation and the rapid decay of lives. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka says it will create court to probe war abuses
[ Daily Mail UK ] [ 07 July 2016 02:07 GMT ]

Last year, the U.N. Human Rights Council adopted a consensus resolution in which Sri Lanka agreed to an investigation with foreign participation. [Full Story]

Is Sri Lanka on the path to reconciliation?
[ Aljazeera ] [ 06 July 2016 04:42 GMT ]

So what's hampering Sri Lanka's efforts to bring reforms and justice? [Full Story]

Report on Public Representations on Constitutional Reform
[ PRC ] [ 05 July 2016 00:02 GMT ]

We were appointed by the Cabinet of Ministers for receiving public representations on constitutional reform to support the constitutional reform process. [Full Story PDF]

More needs to be done, West tells Sri Lanka
[ The Hindu ] [ 04 July 2016 03:49 GMT ]

The government should "continue taking steps" to build the confidence of communities and normalise life in the Northern and Eastern provinces. [Full Story]

Support our journey with patience says Sri Lanka at UNHRC
[ Tamil Guardian ] [ 03 July 2016 02:44 GMT ]

'What we have achieved so far since January 2015 may seem like baby steps for some, but for us they are giant leaps.' [Full Story]

Sri Lanka government consulted us on OMP bill: TNA
[ The Hindu ] [ 02 July 2016 05:10 GMT ]

The Tamil National Alliance (TNA), on Friday acknowledged that the Sri Lanka government had consulted the alliance during the preparation of the draft bill on the Office on Missing Persons (OMP). [Full Story]

Human Rights council discusses human rights situation in Sri Lanka and Myanmar
[ OHCHR ] [ 01 July 2016 14:35 GMT ]

United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Ra'ad Al Hussein present an oral update on promoting reconciliation, accountability and human rights in Sri Lanka. [Full Story]

U.N. Urges Sri Lanka to Speed Up War Reconciliation
[ The Wall Street Journal ] [ 30 June 2016 00:02 GMT ]

Sri Lanka must accelerate a judicial process to assess allegations of war crimes as it seeks reconciliation following its 27-year civil war. [Full Story]

Closing window of opportunity in Sri Lanka warns Pasumai Thaayagam
[ Tamil Guardian ] [ 29 June 2016 02:55 GMT ]

Sri Lanka's window of opportunity for reconciliation will close if it fails to act on accountability and militarisation. [Full Story]

U.N. urges Sri Lanka to rein in military, prosecute war crimes
[ Reuters ] [ 28 June 2016 13:54 GMT ]

"The early momentum established in investigating emblematic cases must be sustained. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka wants the world to forget about justice for war victims. Please don't
[ The Guardian UK ] [ 27 June 2016 07:49 GMT ]

With the Sri Lankan government winding back commitments to reconciliation and justice measures, it's up to the international community to hold them to account. [Full Story]

Sri Lankan families hold out hope against the cruel sea
[ The Australian ] [ 26 June 2016 04:05 GMT ]

The ones who left from India had no real chance of being assessed as refugees. [Full Story]

Trust Takes Years To Build, Seconds To Break, Forever To Repair
[ CT ] [ 25 June 2016 10:42 GMT ]

Tamils believed that the occupied lands will all be released to lawful owners within months, resettlement of internally displaced people would be prioritised, political prisoners will be released. [Full Story]

Brexit: David Cameron to quit after UK votes to leave EU
[ BBC ] [ 24 June 2016 11:51 GMT ]

The EU referendum has revealed an ancient, jagged fault line across the United Kingdom. [Full Story]

Accountability crucial to preventing future crimes against humanity
[ OSCE ] [ 23 June 2016 02:40 GMT ]

We committed ourselves, inter alia, to ensure that armed forces personnel are aware they are individually accountable under national and international law for their actions." [Full Story]

Sri Lanka: Broken promises again at the UN?
[ Asian Correspondent ] [ 22 June 2016 00:10 GMT ]

The international community should insist on course correction by Colombo through both a strong oral update by UN High Commissioner for Human Rights later this month and by the co-sponsors of Resolution 30/1. [Full Story]

Cluster bombs used in Sri Lanka's civil war, leaked photos suggest
[ The Guardian UK ] [ 21 June 2016 05:55 GMT ]

Government forces are accused of relentlessly shelling the zones, leading to up to 70,000 deaths. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka's 65,000 Disappeared: Will the Latest Missing Persons' Office Bring Answers?
[ The Wire ] [ 20 June 2016 00:03 GMT ]

Successive government have set up many bodies to address disappearances, and families of the disappeared and activists have engaged with them. But truth, justice and reparations have been elusive. [Full Story]

Speech by M.A. Sumanthiran - Congressional caucus briefing 14th June 2015
[ TWG ] [ 19 June 2016 02:28 GMT ]

We are concerned as much as people are, with regard to this particular issue, wondering if the Government is shifting its stance. [Full Story PDF]

Culture of fear lingers in war-traumatized Sri Lanka
[ THE JAPAN TIMES ] [ 18 June 2016 11:07 GMT ]

Under Sri Lanka's Prevention of Terrorism Act, countless more were subjected to lengthy jail time in horrific conditions, often involving torture and sexual abuse by their jailers. [Full Story]

Impunity and Justice: Why the UN Human Rights Council Must Stay Engaged in Sri Lanka
[ International Crisis Group ] [ 17 June 2016 12:01 GMT ]

What all of Sri Lanka's communities need and deserve now are tangible changes in legislation and concrete implementation of its international promises and obligations on the ground. [Full Story]

Indonesia should allow dozens of Tamil asylum-seekers stranded off coast to disembark
[ Amnesty International ] [ 16 June 2016 02:08 GMT ]

Sri Lanka had seen a spate of arrests of Tamils under the country's Prevention of Terrorism Act. [Full Story]

New Report Details Abuses Against Sri Lankan Tamils
[ The Diplomat ] [ 15 June 2016 00:02 GMT ]

The coalition government needs to do much more - and soon. [Full Story]

60 years after June 5, 1956:The making, unmaking and the difficult remaking of a nation
[ SL Guardian ] [ 14 June 2016 06:22 GMT ]

When political problems are not resolved with the promptness they deserve, new symptoms and priorities emerge and require different approaches and treatments. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka: Enforce Commission Directives on Terror Detainees
[ Human Rights Watch ] [ 13 June 2016 05:51 GMT ]

The government has still not put forward a plan to provide redress for those unjustly detained under the PTA, or addressed the issue of detainees charged and prosecuted solely on the basis of coerced confessions obtained during detention. [Full Story]

Keeping the Pressure on Sri Lanka
[ The Wall Street Journal ] [ 12 June 2016 04:05 GMT ]

After a spark of optimism with the new Sirisena government, progress on reforms has stalled. [Full Story]

British Tamil 'tortured and detained' during Sri Lanka wedding trip
[ The Guardian UK ] [ 11 June 2016 02:18 GMT ]

The UK government is not doing enough to confront the Sri Lankan authorities about these claims.' [Full Story]

The ignored plight of Sri Lankan refugees in Tamil Nadu
[ India Today ] [ 10 June 2016 02:18 GMT ]

Our life here is much worse than that in the war zone that we fled,' [Full Story]

A tale of two languages
[ The Himal Southasia ] [ 09 June 2016 05:29 GMT ]

Will the new Constitution mend the deep scars left behind after the conflict? [Full Story]

Sri Lanka to recognise around 65,000 people missing since civil war as dead
[ The Hindustan Times ] [ 08 June 2016 00:05 GMT ]

Huge numbers of minority Tamils went missing during almost four decades of war after being arrested by security services, while thousands more died in military bombardments. [Full Story]

Fr. Jim Brown and Mr. Vimalathas: Five years after disappearance, where are they and what has happened to the investigation?
[ GV ] [ 07 June 2016 03:47 GMT ]

Can we really have reconciliation without acknowledging what has happened to Fr. Jim Brown and Vimalathas and the thousands like them? [Full Story]

The scars of Sri Lanka's civil war
[ Aljazeera ] [ 06 June 2016 15:01 GMT ]

If we are to succeed, we need to enact a system that is fair and humane." [Full Story]

Seven years after end of civil war, Sri Lanka treads cautiously on path to peace
[ South China Morning Post ] [ 05 June 2016 05:05 GMT ]

For minority Tamils, the government's pledges of post-war truth and reconciliation ring false. [Full Story]

Maithripala Sirisena Could be "Sri Lanka's Mandela" ...Really?
[ Huffington Post ] [ 04 June 2016 04:05 GMT ]

The road to deeper reform has been a rocky one. [Full Story]

Keep the Promise: Monitoring the Government of Sri Lanka's Commitments for Achieving Justice and Reconciliation
[ The Sri Lanka Campaign ] [ 03 June 2016 02:14 GMT ]

They suggest that not enough is being done to lay the foundations for a sustainable peace in Sri Lanka and avert yet another cycle of conflict. [Full Story]

US accused of turning a blind eye on Sri Lanka's 'back-pedalling'
[ JDS ] [ 02 June 2016 03:50 GMT ]

Its latest report largely illustrating the plight of internally displaced (IDP) tens of thousands of Tamils in Sri Lanka's war torn north, seven years after the government declared an end to the war. [Full Story]

NPC urges North-East federal state with land and police powers
[ Tamil Guardian ] [ 01 June 2016 00:04 GMT ]

The Northern Provincial Council urged a federal state structure of two broad linguistic states, including the Sinhala speaking states of 7 provinces and a Tamil speaking North-Eastern state parliament with full land and police powers. [Full Story]

Tamils remain 'second-class citizens' in Sri Lanka
[ UCA News ] [ 31 May 2016 05:14 GMT ]

"Minorities are victims of this intolerant culture prevailing in Sri Lanka, directly or indirectly," [Full Story]

Sri Lanka: Office of Missing Persons seeks 'disappeared'
[ BBC ] [ 30 May 2016 01:34 GMT ]

Relatives of missing persons have the right to know their whereabouts and the "truth about what happened" to their loved ones. [Full Story]

Community Mediated Justice in Post-War Sri Lanka
[ The Asia Foundation ] [ 29 May 2016 01:07 GMT ]

In such a sensitive post-war environment after decades of not being able to trust anyone, identifying trusted options for resolving such disputes is difficult. [Full Story]

Justice and Peace in Sri Lanka: Possibilities and Risks
[ PEARL ] [ 28 May 2016 02:11 GMT ]

The panel discussion will explore the possibilities and difficulties of justice and reform in post-war Sri Lanka and the roles the international community can play in hastening a secure and lasting peace. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka: Consultations Lacking on Missing Persons' Office
[ Human Rights Watch ] [ 27 May 2016 05:55 GMT ]

'The government should ensure communication, transparency, and dialogue in all its transitional justice mechanisms.' [Full Story]

Time to seize the moment in Sri Lanka
[ International Crisis Group ] [ 26 May 2016 01:50 GMT ]

There is no better place to start than by acknowledging the suffering and injustice experienced by all communities - and the equal right to remember and mourn. [Full Story]

Appraising Sri Lanka's Reform Agenda
[ The Huffington Post ] [ 25 May 2016 03:45 GMT ]

Many promises remain unfulfilled, including contentious issues pertaining to devolution of power and transitional justice. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka: Jumpstarting the Reform Process
[ International Crisis Group ] [ 24 May 2016 03:10 GMT ]

To rebuild confidence among Tamil communities in the north and east, the government must quickly release detainees and military-occupied land, begin credible inquiries into the fate of the disappeared, investigate and end abuses and repeal the Prevention of Terrorism Act. [Full Story]

Dr Brian Senewiratne honoured - Lifetime Commitment Award
[ TWG ] [ 23 May 2016 04:56 GMT ]

Dr. Senewiratne's international advocacy work and activism illustrates his dedicated and exemplary service to the cause of human rights, human dignity and social justice. [Full Story PDF]

Sri Lanka's bloody civil war finally ended seven years ago. But moving on from the past is not easy
[ The Washington Post ] [ 22 May 2016 00:35 GMT ]

Under international law, the victims of atrocities have a right to truth and a right to justice, [Full Story]

Rebuilding Lives, and Homes, Shattered by Sri Lanka's Civil War
[ The New York Times ] [ 21 May 2016 02:41 GMT ]

The United Nations estimates that around 40,000 people, most of them civilians, were killed in the battles that ended the war. [Full Story]

Beyond reconciliation and accountability: distributive justice and Sri Lanka's transitional agenda
[ Open Democracy ] [ 20 May 2016 01:25 GMT ]

If the transitional justice process in Sri Lanka ignores the indignities of poverty and everyday precariousness, can we really call it 'justice'? [Full Story]

Live: I'm forever indebted to the people of TN, says Jayalalithaa
[ The HIndu ] [ 19 May 2016 14:40 GMT ]

The three-time Chief Minister will be the first person after MGR to be elected to two contiguous terms. [Full Story]

Prospects for reconciliation and development in Sri Lanka
[ UCA ] [ 18 May 2016 11:44 GMT ]

The seventh anniversary of the end of Sri Lanka's civil war falls on May 18, a date that is likely to once again polarize the island's society along ethnic lines. [Full Story]

Healing the wounds of war in Sri Lanka
[ New Straits Times ] [ 17 May 2016 05:55 GMT ]

The Sirisena administration is determined to foster lasting peace. [Full Story]

'Tamil issue pushed to margins as India, Lanka rework ties'
[ Times of India ] [ 16 May 2016 05:40 GMT ]

It had been New Delhi's endeavour to persuade the Sri Lankan government to accommodate Tamil aspirations by moving in the direction of a federal constitutional framework within a united Sri Lanka. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka calls on Tamil expatriates to compromise
[ India Today ] [ 15 May 2016 02:33 GMT ]

The Tamils demand for federal system dates back to the days when Sri Lanka, then Ceylon, became independent of the British Rule in 1948. [Full Story]

Preventing Post-LTTE Violence in Sri Lanka
[ Economic and Political Weekly ] [ 14 May 2016 18:11 GMT ]

If political violence is to be averted, the state ought to provide a package of reforms that addresses the core grievances of the Tamil population. [Full Story]

Anti-corruption summit launches global plan to recover stolen assets
[ BBC ] [ 13 May 2016 00:02 GMT ]

The Global Forum for Asset Recovery will bring together governments and law enforcement agencies to discuss returning assets to Nigeria, Ukraine, Sri Lanka and Tunisia. [Full Story]

Can a New President Lead Sri Lanka Into an Era of Peace?
[ The New York Times ] [ 12 May 2016 03:52 GMT ]

Leaders of Sri Lanka have repeatedly promised a political solution to the ethnic strife that has caused heartache and bloodshed for much of its nearly 70-year history since independence. [Full Story]

Reconciliation still a long way off in Sri lanka
[ The New Indian Express ] [ 11 May 2016 05:55 GMT ]

Political considerations have a way of numbing the most sensitive conscience. [Full Story]

Tamils suffered genocide in Sri Lanka says British MP at parliamentary Mullivaikkal remembrance event
[ Tamil Guardian ] [ 10 May 2016 23:56 GMT ]

Sri Lanka will not change without sustained pressure. [Full Story]

Torture Continues in Lanka Due to Weaknesses in Law: UN
[ Outlook ] [ 09 May 2016 04:11 GMT ]

He said the UN was encouraged by the positive steps taken by the government to uphold human rights values. [Full Story]

U.N. urges judiciary reforms in Sri Lanka to avoid delay in justice
[ Reuters ] [ 08 May 2016 01:15 GMT ]

"First scrap the PTA, eliminate prolonged detention without trial in various forms, establish mechanism for real judicial and prosecutorial control over police investigations and things along those lines," he said. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka's path to peace
[ Sri Lanka Campaign ] [ 07 May 2016 02:57 GMT ]

For many in the north and east of Sri Lanka the conflict has not ended and structural violence continues to be a part of their daily lives. [Full Story]

Pope Francis castigates Europe in speech on solidarity
[ The Guardian UK ] [ 06 May 2016 13:17 GMT ]

'What has happened to you, the Europe of humanism, the champion of human rights, democracy and freedom?' [Full Story]

The 'promising' world of Tamil Nadu politics: From freebies to bans, here are some pre-poll pledges
[ First Post ] [ 05 May 2016 02:22 GMT ]

Political parties in Tamil Nadu have left no stone unturned in their attempt to please the voters. [Full Story]

Federal system not meant to divide Sri Lanka: Northern CM
[ The Indian Express ] [ 04 May 2016 01:19 GMT ]

The TNA hopes to submit the federal proposal when the draft for a new constitution is discussed in the national parliament. [Full Story]

What is World Press Freedom Day?
[ Voice of America ] [ 03 May 2016 11:58 GMT ]

Freedom of information is a fundamental human right, weighs the state of press freedom around the world. [Full Story]

UN experts on torture and the independence of the justice system in joint visit to Sri Lanka
[ UN Human Rights ] [ 02 May 2016 01:28 GMT ]

Sri Lanka is at a crucial moment in its history and we hope that our recommendations will contribute to setting out a path for the future. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka: A Troubling Spate of Arrests Across the Northern and Eastern Provinces
[ The Huffington Post ] [ 01 May 2016 01:47 GMT ]

These dubious arrests under the guise of 'national security' are eerily reminiscent of Rajapaksa's reign. [Full Story]

Sri Lankan protest demands new probe of Tamil journalist's killing
[ First Post ] [ 30 Apr 2016 02:11 GMT ]

Dharmeratnam Sivaram was targeted because of uncompromising coverage of political and military matters. [Full Story]

Sri Lankan struggle to recover from the economic and emotional wounds of civil war
[ CNBC ] [ 29 Apr 2016 00:01 GMT ]

They're frustrated by what they see as a lack of progress and it's taken a heavy emotional toll. [Full Story]

TNA demands probe over illegal occupation' by Sri Lankan Army
[ The Hindu ] [ 28 Apr 2016 05:47 GMT ]

The incident comes in the backdrop of last week's resolution in the TNA controlled northern provincial council to set up a federal Tamil government in the north. [Full Story]

Battle scars: Sri Lanka's north counts the cost of a 26-year war
[ CNBC ] [ 27 Apr 2016 10:02 GMT ]

Greater regional autonomy was a key request Tamil rebels made during wartime negotiations with Colombo. [Full Story]

The Inconvenient Truth about Sri Lanka's North and East
[ The Huffington Post ] [ 26 Apr 2016 20:05 GMT ]

Failing to acknowledge the truth about what's currently happening across the Northern and Eastern Provinces makes healing the wounds of war that much more difficult. [Full Story]

Foundation stone laid for the Indian Housing Project in Central and Uva Provinces
[ HCI ] [ 25 Apr 2016 02:55 GMT ]

As part of Government of India's commitment to construct 50,000 houses in Sri Lanka, 4000 houses will be constructed in the Central and Uva Provinces as the third and final phase of the project. [Full Story]

They are asserting their rights in a peaceful and democratic manner'
[ The Times of India ] [ 24 Apr 2016 00:44 GMT ]

He feels that equal rights to Tamils under an autonomous state is the solution to the island nation's problem. [Full Story]

Lanka Tamil council backs federal solution
[ PTI ] [ 23 Apr 2016 02:33 GMT ]

The Tamil leadership has adopted a softer approach to give up on the separatist demand. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka, Lost in Transition
[ Foreign Affairs ] [ 22 Apr 2016 04:14 GMT ]

The country's recent democratic gains are more modest than they might first appear. [Full Story]

Rampant militarisation across the North-East - Report
[ Tamil Guardian ] [ 21 Apr 2016 03:02 GMT ]

'Sri Lanka's continuing lack of progress on key issues such as accountability and demilitarization throws into question the government's sincerity and political will to implement the pledges it has made,' [Full Story]

Post-war Sri Lanka
[ RisingKashmir ] [ 20 Apr 2016 01:55 GMT ]

Fundamental issues when left unaddressed can lead to violent uprising at any time. [Full Story]

PROJECT EXILE: CRITICIZING SRI LANKA WAR LEADS TO EXILE
[ Global Journalist ] [ 19 Apr 2016 04:50 GMT ]

There is progress, but there is a lot to be changed before journalists in the north feel they are free. [Full Story]

New government, old story: The ongoing persecution of Christians in Sri Lanka
[ Christian Today ] [ 18 Apr 2016 02:21 GMT ]

Churches and prayer groups have been forced to close. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka Tamils Look for Federal Solution
[ The New Indian Express ] [ 17 Apr 2016 03:08 GMT ]

Sri Lanka's main Tamil party TNA is seeking a federal solution to resolve the long-pending issue of political independence for the counry's minority Tamil community. [Full Story]

Migrant crisis: Pope returns from Greece with 12 migrants
[ BBC ] [ 16 Apr 2016 14:26 GMT ]

He wanted to "draw the attention of the world to this grave humanitarian crisis". [Full Story]

Stand with Survivors
[ Sri Lanka Campaign ] [ 15 Apr 2016 02:17 GMT ]

The survivors of Sri Lanka's civil war have been ignored for too long. [Full Story]

Aluth Avurudda and Puthandu 2016: David Cameron's message
[ 10 Downing Street ] [ 14 Apr 2016 05:02 GMT ]

I hope that this new year will bring communities closer together in helping to heal the wounds of the past. [Full Story]

Sampanthan calls for bonding between Tamil and Sinhala people at New Year's
[ Tamil Guardian ] [ 14 Apr 2016 00:02 GMT ]

"My hearty New Year wishes to all the Tamil and Sinhala people living across all parts of the world. [Full Story]

Treasures of the Indus - Of Gods and Men
[ BBC iPlayer ] [ 13 Apr 2016 00:33 GMT ]

In a journey across India's Tamil Nadu state, Sona Datta traces the development of the Hindu religion from its origins as an amalgamation of local faith traditions. [Video] [Full Story]

Better conditions for Sri Lankan tea workers, urges Caritas
[ UCA News ] [ 12 Apr 2016 04:33 GMT ]

A rise in wages and better housing is needed for marginalized workers and their families. [Full Story]

Sinhalese can live happily only if Tamils are happy: Lanka Prez
[ Business Standard ] [ 11 Apr 2016 00:05 GMT ]

Sirisena said the majority community must ensure Tamils and Muslims live in harmony in a way that all communities live happily in the country. [Full Story]

A bridge between TN and Sri Lanka
[ The Hindu ] [ 10 Apr 2016 01:02 GMT ]

He belonged to a period when musicians from India and Sri Lanka regularly played in both the countries. [Full Story]

South and Central Asia: U.S. Policies and Priorities for 2016
[ U.S. State Department ] [ 09 Apr 2016 02:55 GMT ]

Sri Lanka deserves special attention as it continues to consolidate democratic gains in the past two elections and put the country on a path to reconciliation. [Full Story]

A bridge too far?
[ The Asian Age ] [ 08 Apr 2016 02:09 GMT ]

The DMK had pulled out in protest over India's reticence over the wording of a UN resolution against Sri Lanka for alleged human rights violations during the 30-year long civil war. [Full Story]

Activists in an international system: pushing for change in Sri Lanka
[ Open Democracy ] [ 07 Apr 2016 04:01 GMT ]

It would be a mistake for our international friends to leave us now, especially after the long journey they have undertaken with us. [Full Story]

The thavil that united Tamils
[ The Hindu ] [ 06 Apr 2016 05:49 GMT ]

The first Tamil non-fiction film to win a National Award in 17 years. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka starts moves to grant Tamils more autonomy
[ AFP ] [ 05 Apr 2016 05:07 GMT ]

Sri Lanka's parliament Tuesday launched a process to draw up a new constitution aimed at preventing a return to ethnic war. [Full Story]

FREEDOM FROM TORTURE STATEMENT ON THE SELECT COMMITTEE REPORT ON THE FCO'S FUNDING AND ADMINISTRATION OF ITS HUMAN RIGHTS WORK OVERSEAS
[ Freedom from Torture ] [ 04 Apr 2016 07:56 GMT ]

We are increasingly concerned that the UK government puts flying the flag for business over and above human rights. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka's Tamil torture victims reiterate call for international judges
[ Tamil Guardian ] [ 03 Apr 2016 04:23 GMT ]

"They would like hybrid courts, where international judges and investigators come along with domestic authorities and look into these human rights violations," [Full Story]

Getting US Messaging About Sri Lanka's 'Democratic Transition' Right
[ The Diplomat ] [ 02 Apr 2016 02:45 GMT ]

The U.S. should maintain diplomatic pressure and emphasize that a deepening of bilateral ties will not happen until more progress is made. [Full Story]

Dheepan's Antonythasan Jesuthasan: from Tamil Tiger to star of a Palme d'Or winner
[ The Guardian UK ] [ 01 Apr 2016 05:20 GMT ]

'I didn't know real life in Sri Lanka. Just the war. And it has shaped everything. Still, I am at war. I always will be.' [Full Story]

'Encourage writers to promote Tamil language and literature'
[ The Hindu ] [ 31 Mar 2016 03:40 GMT ]

The authors and scholars should be honoured in their lifetime itself. [Full Story]

RISING FROM THE EMBERS: The Tamils of Sri Lanka are still stuck between a bloody past and hope
[ Quartz India ] [ 30 Mar 2016 00:25 GMT ]

Thousands of traumatised people, forced from their homes, remain in the internal displaced person camps without jobs, running water, or even the hope that they may one day return to their former homes. [Full Story]

Abbott's Sri Lanka comments 'excuse war crimes', Tamil refugee advocates say
[ The Guardian UK ] [ 29 Mar 2016 05:11 GMT ]

Human Rights Watch Australia director, Elaine Pearson, said Abbott's comments were unacceptable and offensive. [Full Story]

Lanka's new Constitution will address the Tamil issue: Minister
[ PTI ] [ 28 Mar 2016 03:01 GMT ]

The Sri Lankan government will find a political solution to the Tamil issue in the new Constitution, a senior minister said today. [Full Story]

Pope's Easter message condemns failure to help migrants
[ BBC ] [ 27 Mar 2016 14:51 GMT ]

The Pope said migrants often met "rejection from those who could offer them welcome and assistance". [Full Story]

Political Prisoners and Sri Lanka's Sincerity Crisis
[ The Huffington Post ] [ 26 Mar 2016 02:08 GMT ]

President Maithripala Sirisena had promised progress regarding Tamil political prisoners, although we've seen little of that. [Full Story]

Treasures of the Indus
[ BBC iPlayer ] [ 25 Mar 2016 01:26 GMT ]

This is the story of the Indian subcontinent told through the treasures of three very different people, places and dynasties that have shaped the modern Indian world. [Full Story]

A New Land - Reshaping Sri Lanka's Destiny
[ The Huffington Post ] [ 24 Mar 2016 05:58 GMT ]

Our political leaders have consistently failed to make Sri Lanka the inclusive, peaceful and prosperous country. [Full Story]

Singapore most preferred destination of Tamil diaspora, study finds
[ Times of India ] [ 23 Mar 2016 04:11 GMT ]

Singapore has emerged as the most preferred destination among NRIs from Tamil Nadu. [Full Story]

Committed to ensuring credible investigation into human rights abuses in Sri Lanka, says UN
[ First Post ] [ 22 Mar 2016 03:55 GMT ]

The UN has said it remains committed to ensuring a credible investigation into alleged human rights abuses in Sri Lanka during the final phase of the civil war that ended seven years ago. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka's lost generation
[ Daily Times ] [ 21 Mar 2016 04:18 GMT ]

Unmoored from mainstream society, these young men and women are Sri Lanka's lost generation. [Full Story]

Hill-country Tamils don't want to be called 'Indian Tamils'
[ The Hindu ] [ 20 Mar 2016 05:02 GMT ]

Making use of the ongoing process of constitutional reforms, the community wants the issue of identity to be resolved. [Full Story]

Accord citizenship to Sri Lankan Tamils living in camps: PUCL
[ The Hindu ] [ 19 Mar 2016 00:17 GMT ]

All political parties in the State were concerned about Tamils living in Sri Lanka and did not look at the pathetic condition of those in refugee camps. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka needs international expertise at all levels - IMADR
[ Tamil Guardian ] [ 18 Mar 2016 04:54 GMT ]

'It is in our experience that Sri Lanka needs international expertise at all levels in order to effectively implement the resolution,' [Full Story]

Sri Lankan government refuses to release Tamil political prisoners
[ WSWS] [ 17 Mar 2016 03:25 GMT ]

The continued incarceration without trial of hundreds of Tamils not only exposes the ongoing repression and discrimination against the country's Tamil minority. [Full Story]

Modern Tamils & the Tamil National Question
[ Sangam ] [ 16 Mar 2016 02:18 GMT ]

This book is the third and final in the series on the history of the Sri Lankan Tamils. [Full Story]

UK 'firmly committed to full implementation' of UN resolution on Sri Lanka
[ Tamil Guardian ] [ 15 Mar 2016 05:05 GMT ]

'We remain firmly committed to the full implementation of the resolution adopted in September and stand ready to help Sri Lanka. [Full Story]

The Continuing Need For International Presence
[ CT ] [ 14 Mar 2016 05:44 GMT ]

The issue of international participation should not become or be seen as foreign interference that erodes national sovereignty. On the contrary, it is to strengthen the confidence of the Tamil polity in the transition process. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka needs to move faster on key reconciliation issues: UN
[ PTI ] [ 13 Mar 2016 04:09 GMT ]

The next few months will be important as the Sri Lankan government embarks on national consultations for the design of a comprehensive transitional justice process to implement fully this Council's resolution. [Full Story]

Sampanthan slams Sri Lankan government over continuing detentions
[ The Hindu ] [ 12 Mar 2016 01:12 GMT ]

Their continued detention was 'not compatible with transitional justice. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka PM seeks probe into 'missing' wartime gold
[ Deccan Chronicle ] [ 11 Mar 2016 02:00 GMT ]

The army seized jewellery left behind by some 300,000 minority Tamil citizens who were driven out of their homes in the final stages of Sri Lanka's separatist war, which ended in 2009. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka calls for int'l aid for war-torn regions
[ China Internet Information Center ] [ 10 Mar 2016 00:02 GMT ]

The government would convene a donor conference this year to seek technical and financial assistance for the north and east and had requested Japan to take the lead. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka Should Finally Release Tamil Political Prisoners
[ The Huffington Post ] [ 09 Mar 2016 15:15 GMT ]

Colombo should finally release or bring to trial all Tamil political prisoners. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka ready for peace, says Erik Solheim
[ The Hindu ] [ 08 Mar 2016 04:05 GMT ]

This is the best opportunity to bring about a lasting solution to the country's ethnic question, Norway's former special peace envoy Erik Solheim said on Tuesday. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka brings back war-time measures to fight gangs
[ The Guardian UK ] [ 07 Mar 2016 05:15 GMT ]

At least 100,000 people were killed in the 37-year separatist war. [Full Story]

Need For Both External & Internal Champions Of The Reconciliation Process
[ CT ] [ 06 Mar 2016 02:22 GMT ]

Sri Lanka is today presented with a historic opportunity to deal with its past traumas, human rights violations and war crimes. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka bans landmines seven years after civil war
[ SBS ] [ 05 Mar 2016 01:17 GMT ]

Sri Lanka had previously refused to become a signatory to the treaty. [Full Story]

Tamil Chair at Harvard University
[ Generosity ] [ 04 Mar 2016 02:15 GMT ]

The creation of a permanent Tamil Chair at Harvard University is vital for the longevity and health of the Tamil language in the western hemisphere. [Full Story]

In Sri Lanka, Barriers Fall in a Land Marred by Bloodshed
[ The New York Times ] [ 03 Mar 2016 03:45 GMT ]

Seven years after a brutal war, peace and tourism have returned to Sri Lanka's north, but normality remains more elusive. [Full Story]

Joint Statement From the U.S. Department of State and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Sri Lanka on the Inaugural U.S. - Sri Lanka Partnership Dialogue
[ U.S. Department of State ] [ 02 Mar 2016 05:22 GMT ]

The United States welcomed Sri Lanka's strength as a nation committed to achieving lasting peace and prosperity inclusive of truth-seeking, justice, reparations and guarantees of non-recurrence that includes providing closure to the families of the missing. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka: Maintain momentum, Deliver on human rights commitments
[ Amnesty International ] [ 01 Mar 2016 04:04 GMT ]

Justice, truth and reparation can be important mechanisms to ensure that past human rights violations and abuses will never be repeated. [Full Story PDF]

Opinion: Changing role of real estate firms in former war zone
[ LBO ] [ 01 Mar 2016 00:04 GMT ]

Thirty five years of Civil war in Sri Lanka has seen 60 â€' 65 percent of the Sri Lankan Tamil population gradually leaving Sri Lanka for other countries. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka could accept international actors in war crimes probe
[ Reuters ] [ 29 Feb 2016 03:01 GMT ]

Sri Lanka's foreign minister said on Thursday he is willing to consider international participation in investigating possible war crimes during the 26-year Tamil insurgency. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka: Rising from the ashes, but much left to do
[ Lowy Institute for International Policy ] [ 28 Feb 2016 03:27 GMT ]

The population halved during the war. [Full Story]

Amnesty International reveals the 10 worst attacks on human rights across the world last year
[ The Independent UK ] [ 27 Feb 2016 02:49 GMT ]

Report issues damning assessment on the state of human rights in the world right now. [Full Story]

Piecing together shattered lives in Sri Lanka
[ UCA News ] [ 26 Feb 2016 05:50 GMT ]

Around 15,000 children in the Batticaloa province were orphaned by the civil war that ended in 2009. [Full Story]

The US Must Pay More Attention to Sri Lanka's Transitional Justice Debate
[ The Diplomat ] [ 25 Feb 2016 17:52 GMT ]

It's imperative that the international community, especially the United States., keep the pressure on Sri Lanka to help consolidate the nation's recent democratic gains and assist a war-torn country build a durable peace. [Full Story]

Tamil Civil Society Seeks International Participation in Constitution Making
[ The New Indian Express ] [ 24 Feb 2016 01:55 GMT ]

The process of constitution making should be 'sufficiently internationalized in the light of other constitutional making examples in the aftermath of violent conflict, such as Bosnia, Northern Ireland and Aceh. [Full Story]

Tamil youths in Sri Lanka moving out of plantation sector
[ The Hindu ] [ 23 Feb 2016 02:49 GMT ]

They are also facing 'stigmatisation and discrimination due to their Indian Tamil ethnicity and estate worker identity. [Full Story]

A Sri Lankan Lesson in Free Speech
[ The New York Times ] [ 22 Feb 2016 04:02 GMT ]

Tamil literature, which has a long and important history that has helped shape and define Tamil identity. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka After the Tigers
[ Human Rights Watch ] [ 21 Feb 2016 01:29 GMT ]

The Sri Lankan government has a historic opportunity to mend a nation broken by war. But it will only succeed if accountability triumphs over old distrust. [Full Story]

'Tamil areas in Sri Lanka are the pockets of poverty'
[ The Hindu ] [ 20 Feb 2016 03:12 GMT ]

Regions with the highest rate of poverty in Sri Lanka are areas inhabited by Tamils, according to a study of the World Bank. [Full Story]

Sent back by Australia to debt in Sri Lanka
[ IRIN ] [ 19 Feb 2016 02:01 GMT ]

Many returnees face crippling debt after spending large sums to pay for the journey. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka After the Tigers - Letter from Mannar
[ Foreign Affairs ] [ 18 Feb 2016 05:49 GMT ]

The mainly Sinhalese military sprawls on land that once belonged to the Tamil community. [Full Story]

Will UN rights chief's Sri Lankan visit deliver outcomes?
[ UCA News ] [ 17 Feb 2016 04:50 GMT ]

Sri Lanka's government also committed to establishing four transitional justice mechanisms covering reparations, missing persons, truth seeking and accountability through judicial mechanisms. [Full Story]

Even As UN Softens Its Stand, Sri Lanka Has Tough Challenge At UNHRC Analysis
[ Eurasia Review ] [ 16 Feb 2016 22:44 GMT ]

Colombo needs to take concrete steps towards speedy reconciliation. [Full Story]

Maithripala Sirisena: Saved Mahinda Rajapaksa from war crimes court
[ The Asian Age ] [ 15 Feb 2016 05:02 GMT ]

His victory in elections in January 2015 over Mr Rajapaksa was the reason why the former President was prevented from answering a war crimes probe. [Full Story]

Sirisena Appoints Left-Liberal Reginald Cooray as Northern Province Governor
[ The Indian Express ] [ 14 Feb 2016 04:55 GMT ]

A progressive step welcomed by Tamil leaders. [Full Story]

Myanmar's Tamil community works to maintain their culture
[ Mizzima ] [ 13 Feb 2016 04:18 GMT ]

Tamils, native to southeastern India and northern Sri Lanka, are one of the world's largest ethnic groups without a nation. [Full Story]

Political and Livelihood Assurances a Must
[ The New Indian Express ] [ 12 Feb 2016 02:05 GMT ]

Political questions have to be settled to the satisfaction of the Lankan Tamils so as to encourage their 'voluntary return. [Full Story]

India-Sri Lanka: A tale of Guns and Roses
[ Prepsure ] [ 11 Feb 2016 11:35 GMT ]

India and Sri Lanka enjoy a unique relationship which has been strengthened over time, and seem to have bright future. [Full Story]

Explaining Transitional Justice in Sri Lanka
[ The Diplomat ] [ 10 Feb 2016 02:35 GMT ]

The new government's progress on core Tamil issues, including the release of Tamil political prisoners and demilitarization, has disappointed many. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka must confront demons of past, UN rights chief says
[ AFP ] [ 09 Feb 2016 15:28 GMT ]

His warning came after having heard fears that the government "may be wavering on its human rights commitments" despite its promise to ensure ethnic reconciliation and accountability. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka's Tamil leaders call for UN help on 4000 missing
[ Daily Mail UK ] [ 08 Feb 2016 00:21 GMT ]

Sri Lanka's ethnic Tamil leaders on Sunday asked the top U.N. human rights official to help determine the fate of more than 4,000 civilians reported missing in the country's long civil war. [Full Story]

India Needs to Urgently Engage With Sri Lankan Tamil Diaspora Groups: Global Tamil Forum
[ The New Indian Express ] [ 08 Feb 2016 00:15 GMT ]

India has so far, kept powerful Diaspora groups at an arms length. [Full Story]

The Political Challenge Of Carrying The People Through Transitional Justice
[ CT ] [ 07 Feb 2016 00:03 GMT ]

A domestic process of judicial accountability that has no international involvement will not be acceptable to the great majority of Tamil people who were the main victims of the last phase of the war. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka's Rajapaksa family: Crashing fall from grace
[ BBC ] [ 06 Feb 2016 04:55 GMT ]

Once-despairing human rights activists detect small signs of progress. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka takes 'giant step' toward unity with Tamil anthem
[ Daily Mail UK ] [ 05 Feb 2016 00:50 GMT ]

"It may be a small symbolic thing, but it is a very important step telling the Tamil-speaking people that they are equal members of this country and the state recognises that," [Full Story]

What are we celebrating on the 4th Feb Independence, Inter-dependence or Freedom?
[ SL Guardian ] [ 04 Feb 2016 00:02 GMT ]

Never did we dream that the British blunder of handing over all the power into the hands of a majoritarian democracy will lead to many decades of conflict and war on this island. [Full Story]

Tamil council calls for federalism
[ The Hindu ] [ 03 Feb 2016 00:01 GMT ]

The Tamil People's Council, a forum of different Tamil political parties and groups, has proposed that Sri Lanka be converted into a federal republic. [Full Story]

Sri Lankan minorities want an inclusive constitution
[ UCA News ] [ 02 Feb 2016 04:01 GMT ]

Reconciliations efforts will be in vain if the law is not equal and just. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka: Tracing the origins of Ceylon tea
[ Aljazeera ] [ 01 Feb 2016 00:55 GMT ]

Women have to collect 18Kg of delicate tea leaves to receive their daily pay of $5. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka constitution: What's in it for the Tamils?
[ Asian Correspondent ] [ 31 Jan 2016 01:58 GMT ]

Tamils will remain under-privileged citizens unless they mount a concerted challenge to the regime's moves forthwith. [Full Story]

Last ruler of Kandy has his resting place in Vellore
[ The Hindu ] [ 30 Jan 2016 02:00 GMT ]

Plaques in Muthu Mandapam hail him Sri Lanka's last Tamil King, and note that he was housed in a room inside the fort for 16 years. [Full Story]

No justice for Sri Lanka's missing and killed journalists
[ UCA News ] [ 29 Jan 2016 04:49 GMT ]

There has been little government support forthcoming to investigate the deaths of Tamil journalists. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka: New Government Makes Significant Progress
[ Human Rights Watch ] [ 28 Jan 2016 03:10 GMT ]

The changed atmosphere under the new government has given hope to many victims of past abuses, civil society activists, and international observers, Adams said. [Full Story]

China Radio's Tamil programmes gain popularity
[ News Today Media ] [ 28 Jan 2016 02:14 GMT ]

The division that started in 1963 has been catering to listeners in India, Sri Lanka, Malaysia and several other countries. [Full Story]

The agony of Sri Lanka's carapace of peace
[ Channel4 ] [ 27 Jan 2016 03:03 GMT ]

Tonight on Channel 4 News we shall be telling a story of a degree of return to normality. [Full Story] [Report II] [Report III]

Sri Lanka: Fulfill Rights Council Call for Justice
[ Human Rights Watch ] [ 26 Jan 2016 00:15 GMT ]

'The countries that worked so closely with Sri Lanka at the Human Rights Council last year have a responsibility to ensure that this important resolution will be properly adopted, Adams said. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka's Rebirth
[ Project Syndicate ] [ 26 Jan 2016 00:02 GMT ]

What is required is full integration of the Tamils, Sri Lanka's embittered minority, into the country's economic life. [Full Story]

Key to Lanka's success
[ Arab News ] [ 25 Jan 2016 04:51 GMT ]

There is a conviction in Sri Lanka today that by shedding majoritarian ego and displaying magnanimity the country can be re-invented. [Full Story]

TNA to stick to federal solution
[ CT ] [ 24 Jan 2016 02:56 GMT ]

The Tamil National Alliance (TNA) will not deviate from their stance on finding a solution based on the federal system. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka president wants 'internal' war crimes court
[ BBC ] [ 23 Jan 2016 04:05 GMT ]

"We will certainly reach our target but it's a process." [Full Story]

Island of Hope -- Sri Lanka's Last Chance for Equality
[ The Huffington Post ] [ 22 Jan 2016 03:55 GMT ]

We need to create a society where we can all live in dignity, a society that is just and free. Until we do, the promise of our new nation can never be realized. [Full Story]

Retired Sri Lankan bishop risked life for Tamils, say activists
[ UCA News ] [ 21 Jan 2016 05:19 GMT ]

Prelate survived assassination attempts while championing the rights of the underprivileged [Full Story]

David Cameron takes some credit for reforms in Sri Lanka
[ Asia One ] [ 20 Jan 2016 04:48 GMT ]

The mechanisms would be purely Sri Lankan with the required assistance provided by the UN community, but it would have to be in place before the UNHRC's June sessions. [Full Story]

M.I.A. IN ACTION: Voice of the war-torn
[ Nyoooz ] [ 19 Jan 2016 03:17 GMT ]

For M.I.A., daughter of a Lankan Tamil political activist, her identification with the refugees is both personal and political. [Full Story]

Meet seeks to pass on Tamil's heritage
[ The Hindu ] [ 18 Jan 2016 02:12 GMT ]

The theme of the international conference was on Challenges and Opportunities for Tamil living abroad. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka PM vows greater political power for Tamils
[ The Daily Mail UK ] [ 17 Jan 2016 00:05 GMT ]

Sri Lanka's prime minister on Friday promised greater political power to the island's Tamil minority under a new constitution aimed at preventing a return to ethnic war and healing the wounds of the past. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka's Circuitous Road to Reform
[ The Diplomat ] [ 16 Jan 2016 05:59 GMT ]

Sri Lanka's recent democratic gains are real; so are the challenges that lie ahead. [Full Story]

Time for Action on Sri Lanka War Crimes
[ The Diplomat ] [ 15 Jan 2016 04:28 GMT ]

The current year-old government of Sri Lanka is a vast improvement on its abysmal predecessor. [Full Story]

Report card: Sri Lanka president falls short after one year at helm
[ Asia Times ] [ 14 Jan 2016 02:01 GMT ]

Sirisena has made good progress in getting the 19th Amendment to the country's constitution passed which will abolish the Executive Presidency at the end of his term. [Full Story]

De-mining Sri Lanka: a job for widows and survivors
[ Aljazeera ] [ 13 Jan 2016 09:58 GMT ]

"We might not be able to take every single mine out of the ground, but the important thing is that people will be able to go on with their lives. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka's historic opportunity
[ The Hindu ] [ 12 Jan 2016 04:41 GMT ]

It is a historic opportunity for all stake-holders, including Tamils, Muslims and plantation Tamils, to participate in the process. It is time all sides left their nationalist rhetoric of the past behind. [Full Story]

TMP Watchdog of Lanka Tamil Politics
[ The New Indian Express ] [ 11 Jan 2016 03:49 GMT ]

The Tamil Makkal Peravai (TMP),is not a rival to the Tamil National Alliance (TNA), but is a non-partisan, civil society watchdog meant to see that the basic interests of the Lankan Tamils are upheld by their leaders and not compromised for petty gains. [Full Story]

Inside Story: Can a new constitution heal Sri Lanka's wounds?
[ Aljazeera ] [ 10 Jan 2016 03:49 GMT ]

President Maithripala Sirisena has pledged to introduce sweeping constitutional reforms aimed at preventing his country from returning to ethnic war. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka begins process of writing new constitution to prevent war
[ Deutsche Welle ] [ 09 Jan 2016 02:25 GMT ]

Objections by the majority ethnic Sinhala community to power sharing deals with the minority ethnic Tamils early on led to terrorism and war. [Full Story]

The state that loves bullfighting but isn't Spain
[ BBC ] [ 08 Jan 2016 00:58 GMT ]

Jallikattu is more than 2,000 years old and considered to be one of the oldest sports still practised in the modern era. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka accused of allowing continuing human rights abuses
[ The Guardian UK ] [ 07 Jan 2016 00:04 GMT ]

In September the United Nations said it had found evidence strongly indicating that war crimes were committed in Sri Lanka in the closing phases of its civil war. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka's torture machine continues in peacetime
[ IRIN ] [ 06 Jan 2016 15:49 GMT ]

Civilians are still being abducted, tortured and sexually abused by security forces, according to a report published today. [Full Story]

From Baahubali to Anegan: Top 10 highest grossing overseas Tamil movies of 2015
[ International Business Times ] [ 05 Jan 2016 23:55 GMT ]

Tamil films have created a good market overseas and in the last couple of years. [Full Story]

Scholars too flock to Puducherry
[ The Hindu ] [ 04 Jan 2016 00:02 GMT ]

Penguin Publishers in collaboration with the French Institute of Pondicherry brought out a book on the contemporary Tamil writing in Sri Lanka. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka president pledges land for 100,000 war victims
[ AFP ] [ 03 Jan 2016 17:07 GMT ]

Up to 100,000 people still living in camps six years after the end of Sri Lanka's brutal ethnic war will be given land to build homes within six months. [Full Story]

Tamils Satisfied With Lanka's Move Toward Constitutional Reform
[ The New Indian Express ] [ 02 Jan 2016 05:04 GMT ]

'Very meaningful first steps have been taken by the government with intent. [Full Story]

New Year Determination For Reconciliation & Peace
[ CT ] [ 01 Jan 2016 04:57 GMT ]

A firm determination for ethnic reconciliation and peace is of paramount importance in the New Year 2016. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka seeks public support in constitutional reforms
[ Economy Next ] [ 31 Dec 2015 01:55 GMT ]

Sri Lanka's government aims to draft a new constitution with wide public participation within existing parliamentary procedures and appeals to interest groups to put forward proposals, a spokesman said. [Full Story]

What's the Deal with Sri Lanka's War Crimes Court?
[ The Diplomat ] [ 30 Dec 2015 03:03 GMT ]

Since the administration of President Maithripala Sirisena still refuses to release Tamil political prisoners 'with no real charges against them, no domestic process will be taken seriously. [Full Story]

For First Time in Lankan History Tamil Parties Gear Up For Constitution Making
[ The New Indian Express ] [ 29 Dec 2015 02:27 GMT ]

The government has officially stated that the new constitution will provide a 'constitutional resolution' of the ethnic issue. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka's delicate dance with China
[ CNBC ] [ 28 Dec 2015 03:48 GMT ]

Sri Lanka's new government has inherited more than $25 billion in debt to offshore creditors. [Full Story]

Sri lanka set to move resolution in parliament to turn house into Constitutional Assembly
[ First Post ] [ 27 Dec 2015 01:14 GMT ]

Unity government also aims to address the Tamil minority concerns on devolution of power to the Tamil regions in the new Constitution. [Full Story]

Tamil Catholics worry about Christmas in Sri Lanka
[ UCA News ] [ 26 Dec 2015 00:52 GMT ]

Hundreds of war-affected families still live in temporary shelters constructed from tin sheets and palm leaf roofs. [Full Story]

World's Christians celebrate Christmas
[ BBC ] [ 25 Dec 2015 00:02 GMT ]

Events have been overshadowed by recent violence between Palestinians and Israelis. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka : History
[ The Commonwealth ] [ 24 Dec 2015 04:05 GMT ]

Dravidian and Indo-Aryan languages filtered down to Sri Lanka, from the south and north of India respectively, with modern-day Tamils and Sinhalese each often claiming their forefathers arrived first. [Full Story]

Scottish landmine charity reaches major milestone in war-torn Sri Lanka
[ Herald Scotland ] [ 23 Dec 2015 00:09 GMT ]

It has reached a significant milestone after clearing its 200,000th landmine from a former worn-torn part of Sri Lanka. [Full Story]

Sri Lankan President Vows To Resettle Displaced Tamils Within Six Months
[ NDTV ] [ 22 Dec 2015 01:22 GMT ]

A United Nations panel has said around 40,000 mainly Tamil civilians were killed in the final months of the country's separatist war. [Full Story]

Lankan Tamil Leader Determined To Overcome Obstacles To Sending Relief To TN
[ The New Indian Express ] [ 21 Dec 2015 03:08 GMT ]

Indian diplomats told Sivagnanam that India has a policy of not accepting foreign aid for disaster management. [Full Story]

Experts say jaffna likely to be submerged by the sea
[ CT ] [ 20 Dec 2015 02:38 GMT ]

The increase in temperature has resulted in changes in weather patterns. [Full Story]

Body to coordinate reconciliation in Sri Lanka
[ The Hindu ] [ 19 Dec 2015 00:05 GMT ]

The proposed secretariat will develop a plan on institutions such as the Office on Missing Persons and the Truth, Reconciliation and Prevention of Conflicts Commission. [Full Story]

U.S. Under Secretary of State (designate) Thomas Shannon's speech
[ U.S. Department of State ] [ 18 Dec 2015 03:44 GMT ]

In August, the world witnessed your resolve to move beyond the acrimony of the past and towards a future that is inclusive, peaceful, just, democratic, and prosperous. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka is welcoming China - and its money - once more
[ The Independent UK ] [ 17 Dec 2015 03:57 GMT ]

China tends when investing overseas to create firm ties with the ruling elite but otherwise to have little to do with local politics. [Full Story]

Remembering S. Sivanayagam (1930-2010) via His Letters
[ Sangam ] [ 16 Dec 2015 04:04 GMT ]

S. Sivanayagam established and distinguished himself, via his editorship of Saturday Review, Tamil Nation and Hot Spring print journals. [Full Story]

Will the Commonwealth finally step up in Sri Lanka?
[ Open Democracy ] [ 15 Dec 2015 03:55 GMT ]

In Sri Lanka, the Commonwealth has a unique opportunity to restore its place on the global stage. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka Talks Big on Human Rights Day
[ The Diplomat ] [ 14 Dec 2015 04:38 GMT ]

Sri Lanka has 5,750 outstanding cases of disappearances - the second highest number in the world. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka's Tamil Political Prisoners: An Abdication of Presidential Leadership
[ The Huffington Post ] [ 13 Dec 2015 02:50 GMT ]

Colombo's continued intransigence on some of the small issues makes it's hard to be optimistic about the broader reform agenda. [Full Story]

Climate change summit reaches deal in Paris
[ BBC ] [ 12 Dec 2015 21:31 GMT ]

"The transition to a low carbon economy is now unstoppable, ensuring the end of the fossil fuel age." [Full Story]

Supreme Court ruling calls for flexibility in refugee cases involving kids
[ The Globe and Mail ] [ 11 Dec 2015 00:02 GMT ]

The Supreme Court of Canada has told the Canadian government it has misread the 'humanitarian and compassionate grounds for letting failed refugee claimants stay, applying too restrictive a definition. [Full Story]

The Future of US-Sri Lanka Relations
[ The Diplomat ] [ 10 Dec 2015 04:45 GMT ]

Under Obama's watch, the United States played a major role in pressuring Sri Lanka to respect human dignity and deal with the past. [Full Story]

India committed to build 50,000 houses for displaced refugees in Sri Lanka
[ Business Insider Global ] [ 09 Dec 2015 03:21 GMT ]

Since 1995, not much has been done to replace the thousands of internally displaced Tamils in Sri Lanka. [Full Story]

EU supports housing, entrepreneurship in north-east Sri Lanka
[ Economy Next ] [ 08 Dec 2015 04:41 GMT ]

The European Union has launched a three-year project to support war-affected people in Sri Lanka's north and east. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka's $675 million plan to harness floods
[ IRIN ] [ 07 Dec 2015 03:28 GMT ]

In the last five years, the dry zone has suffered at least five major floods and four droughts. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka's transitional justice: Genuine move or red herring?
[ Asian Correspondent ] [ 06 Dec 2015 05:01 GMT ]

Sri Lanka, while pledging not to haul its military before any tribunal for war crimes, took steps to operationalise some aspects of the resolution. [Full Story]

A Few Thoughts on Sri Lanka's New Court
[ The Huffington Post ] [ 05 Dec 2015 02:49 GMT ]

The announcement of this new court means that Sri Lanka will finally begin adding a degree of specificity towards its transitional justice approach. [Full Story]

Why is India's Chennai flooded?
[ BBC ] [ 04 Dec 2015 05:21 GMT ]

Much of the city has grown without a plan and with no regard to water flows. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka to launch special court to probe war crimes
[ AFP ] [ 03 Dec 2015 02:06 GMT ]

"No reconciliation is possible without accepting the mistakes of the past." [Full Story]

Heavy rains lash Tamil Nadu; death toll reaches 188
[ Deccan Herald ] [ 02 Dec 2015 04:28 GMT ]

Weather office has cautioned of more showers in the next four days across Tamil Nadu. [Full Story]

UN delegation: Sri Lanka has opportunity to provide rights to disappeared citizens
[ Jurist ] [ 01 Dec 2015 02:44 GMT ]

The experts noted that Sri Lanka had previously made no effort to determine the whereabouts of the disappeared or search for the truth related to the disappearances. [Full Story]

MIA's Borders: artist braves boats and barbed wire in video crusade for refugees
[ The Guardian UK ] [ 30 Nov 2015 03:09 GMT ]

Track that proves she remains unique in her ability to implement ideas about pop culture and important global topics. [Full Story]

CHOGM 2015: UK steps up reconciliation and human rights support for Sri Lanka
[ Prime Minister's Office, 10 Downing Street ] [ 29 Nov 2015 02:25 GMT ]

The UK is clear that credible investigations into alleged war crimes during Sri Lanka's civil war are vital. [Full Story]

A phonecall, a meeting, then indefinite detention: the refugees at the mercy of Asio
[ The Guardian UK ] [ 28 Nov 2015 04:11 GMT ]

Ranjini, who had been granted refugee status and living in Melbourne, was picked up and held without charge at Villawood detention centre in Sydney for more than three years. [Full Story]

Jaffna fears remembering Tamil war dead
[ BBC ] [ 27 Nov 2015 05:17 GMT ]

Thousands of Tamils around the world are commemorating their dead relatives this week. [Full Story]

Pope Francis in Kenya at start of African tour
[ BBC ] [ 26 Nov 2015 00:02 GMT ]

Pope Francis: ''All men and women of good will are called to work for reconciliation and peace, forgiveness and healing'' [Full Story]

What Comes After Samantha Power's Sri Lanka Visit?
[ The Huffington Post ] [ 25 Nov 2015 14:51 GMT ]

If the Sirisena administration proves unwilling or unable to make tangible progress, then the need to pursue other avenues for justice and lasting peace only becomes more urgent. [Full Story]

US calls for support to Lanka's reconciliation efforts
[ Business Standard ] [ 24 Nov 2015 02:59 GMT ]

Lanka's main Tamil political party has accepted the government efforts to ensure reconciliation after three decades of ethnic war that claimed over 100,000 lives. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka scales back list of banned pro-LTTE outfits
[ PTI ] [ 23 Nov 2015 03:41 GMT ]

Samaraweera said the previous government took the measure to 'build up the hysteria about the LTTE regrouping in the run up to the presidential election. [Full Story]

US Ambassador praises resilience of Tamil journalists
[ Tamil Guardian ] [ 22 Nov 2015 05:55 GMT ]

Pointing to a media worker who had been assaulted, she acknowledged the threats faced, 'as this man's body attests, because he bears the evidence of the sacrifices you all make for the good of your people. [Full Story]

Dispatches: Sri Lanka Homecoming
[ Human Rights Watch ] [ 21 Nov 2015 04:09 GMT ]

'More than others, the Tamils know the trauma of war. [Full Story]

Samantha Power Must Recalibrate Washington's Sri Lanka Rhetoric
[ The Diplomat ] [ 20 Nov 2015 04:58 GMT ]

Power needs to speak clearly about the challenges ahead and the concerns regarding the new government's performance. [Full Story]

UN experts demand action over suspected secret Sri Lankan prisons
[ The Express Tribune ] [ 19 Nov 2015 00:05 GMT ]

UN group said a local investigation probing allegations of thousands of disappearances at the end of the war was moving too slowly. [Full Story] [OHCHR Report]

Justice for a Sri Lankan Massacre
[ Human Rights Watch ] [ 18 Nov 2015 01:11 GMT ]

The government should recognize that there can only be justice for the ACF killings if all those responsible - not just the low-ranking triggermen - are held to account. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka: When loved ones are stolen can poetry repair the wound?
[ Amnesty International ] [ 17 Nov 2015 04:09 GMT ]

More than 80,000 people disappeared in Sri Lanka. [Full Story]

What's the Deal With Sri Lanka's Tamil Political Prisoners?
[ The Huffington Post ] [ 16 Nov 2015 02:34 GMT ]

Releasing Tamil political prisoners would build trust between the government and the Tamil community. [Full Story]

Samantha Power and US Sri Lanka Policy
[ The Diplomat ] [ 15 Nov 2015 01:15 GMT ]

It's imperative that the administration make honest, accurate assessments about Sri Lanka's progress. [Full Story]

Why Asian snack bar Hoppers is London's best new restaurant
[ The Malay Mail ] [ 14 Nov 2015 03:01 GMT ]

Hoppers is a cramped little Soho cafe serving Tamil street food. [Full Story]

Life and Tamil despair in Sri Lanka's refugee camps
[ Asia News ] [ 13 Nov 2015 01:24 GMT ]

All we want is to get out of the camps and go back to our villages. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka mourns activist monk
[ UCA News ] [ 12 Nov 2015 05:05 GMT ]

"The highest tribute we could pay, is to continue with his struggle to ensure that the qualities of honesty, transparency and justice are strongly entrenched in the public life of this country," [Full Story]

SL Govt. has no intention of eradicating the roots of Tamil existence
[ SL Guardian ] [ 11 Nov 2015 00:05 GMT ]

Only by addressing ourselves to the facts of the past, can we avoid a dark future and move towards a better future. [Full Story]

VISIT OF THE UN WORKING GROUP ON ENFORCED AND INVOLUNTARY DISAPPEARANCE TO SRI LANKA
[ Amnesty International ] [ 10 Nov 2015 00:02 GMT ]

This important visit will raise the hopes of thousands of families of the disappeared that with the UN's help they may finally discover the fates and whereabouts of their missing relatives and have the opportunity to pursue justice and reparation. [Full Story PDF]

Sri Lanka's Unexpected Political Opening Won't Last Forever
[ The Diplomat ] [ 09 Nov 2015 05:09 GMT ]

Failing to recognize that transitional justice, including accountability (for wartime abuses), is an essential part of the government's broader governance and institution-building agenda would be a significant mistake. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka prisoners to go on hunger strike if not freed
[ Al Jazeera ] [ 08 Nov 2015 04:22 GMT ]

More than two hundred Tamil prisoners in Sri Lanka are threatening to begin an indefinite hunger strike on Sunday if they are not released. [Full Story]

Caught between the devil and the deep blue sea, Sri Lankan Tamil refugees have lost a future
[ The Weekend Leader ] [ 07 Nov 2015 03:33 GMT ]

'It's a bad proposition to urge the refugees to return to Sri Lanka without a political solution,' [Full Story]

Sri Lanka and the politics of justice
[ Open Democracy ] [ 06 Nov 2015 05:48 GMT ]

There are concrete things the Colombo government can do now. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka's icon of colonial rule rises from the rubble
[ AFP ] [ 05 Nov 2015 02:48 GMT ]

When the Dutch and British ruled Sri Lanka in the 1600 and 1700s, the fortress was a sign of European military might in the Indian Ocean region. [Full Story]

Dispatches: Sri Lanka's Army Plays by the Old Rules
[ Human Rights Watch ] [ 04 Nov 2015 04:01 GMT ]

Not everyone has gotten the message that things have changed. The military needs to get the message. [Full Story]

How can Sri Lanka Demonstrate its Commitment to Peace?
[ Foreign Policy ] [ 03 Nov 2015 00:05 GMT ]

Demilitarization, returning more civilian land to its rightful owners and releasing (or at least bringing to trial) political prisoners are fundamental war-related issues and of utmost importance to the Tamil community. [Full Story]

Let's hope Sri Lanka regains its serendipity
[ The Straits Time ] [ 02 Nov 2015 00:25 GMT ]

Now, Sri Lanka has one more chance. Perhaps its last one. [Full Story]

No graves for Sri Lanka's disappeared
[ UCA News ] [ 01 Nov 2015 04:28 GMT ]

About 40,000 civilians died during the final days of that war. It was a period of unlawful killings, disappearances, arbitrary arrests and torture. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka: A Ray of Hope for those Looking for War Missing
[ IPS ] [ 31 Oct 2015 02:55 GMT ]

'For a nation to heal we must know the truth, however difficult and uncomfortable it may be,' [Full Story]

REFUGEES - Now here and nowhere
[ Frontline ] [ 30 Oct 2015 05:17 GMT ]

As the debate rages on what constitutes conditions conducive to the return of the refugees, the life of the refugee continues to remain in limbo. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka: emerald paradise with a dark interior
[ The Spectator ] [ 29 Oct 2015 03:00 GMT ]

A final reckoning and justice has yet to be delivered. [Full Story]

'The identity of Sri Lanka must be redefined'
[ SL Guardian ] [ 28 Oct 2015 04:15 GMT ]

We Tamils also demand an honest attempt at finding a political solution in addition to the reparations to those affected. Thereafter the reconciliation process can be realised. [Full Story]

Families urge Sri Lanka to release political prisoners
[ UCA News ] [ 27 Oct 2015 00:04 GMT ]

Minority Tamils say injustices continue long after civil war. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka at a Crossroads
[ The Huffington Post UK ] [ 26 Oct 2015 00:47 GMT ]

It's essential that one important group is not forgotten - exiled victims and witnesses. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka: Is Sirisena Ready to Release Tamil Political Prisoners?
[ The Diplomat ] [ 25 Oct 2015 01:05 GMT ]

Sirisena's decision on Tamil political prisoners in the weeks ahead is something to watch closely. [Full Story]

PARANAGAMA REPORT - On the Second Mandate Of the Presidential Commission of Inquiry Into Complaints of Abductions and Disappearances
[ TWG ] [ 24 Oct 2015 02:57 GMT ]

The principal allegations resulting in civilian deaths in the final phase of the conflict, it recognises that there are a number of individual cases involving the SLA where there is a reasonable belief as to breaches of the laws of war. [Full Story PDF]

'Credible inquiry into rights violations in Sri Lanka possible'
[ The Hindu ] [ 23 Oct 2015 03:03 GMT ]

India's former Union Finance and Home Minister P. Chidambaram on Wednesday said 'credible inquiry [into alleged human rights violations in Sri Lanka] could be achieved in many ways. [Full Story]

To End a Civil War: Norway's Peace Engagement with Sri Lanka
[ Prio ] [ 22 Oct 2015 04:05 GMT ]

In doing so the book fills a critical gap in understanding the Sri Lankan conflict. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka judge says war crimes claims are 'credible'
[ BBC ] [ 21 Oct 2015 10:33 GMT ]

The UN admitted in 2012 that it could and should have done more to protect civilians. [Full Story]

Gary Anandasangaree wins Scarborough-Rouge Park for Liberals in landslide victory
[ Global News ] [ 20 Oct 2015 19:44 GMT ]

Anandasangaree surged ahead of the the other candidates with an overwhelming majority of the vote. [Full Story]

The lives left in ruins by Sri Lanka's civil war
[ The World Weekly ] [ 20 Oct 2015 04:02 GMT ]

The Sri Lankan government has not spent a single rupee to build houses for displaced Tamils. [Full Story]

TN Entrepreneurs Add Social Dimension to Investing in North Lanka
[ The New indian Express ] [ 19 Oct 2015 01:22 GMT ]

We were moved by the plight of the 70,000 war widows in the North and East. [Full Story]

Tamil Kids' Mind Badly Hurt by Lankan War
[ New Indian Express ] [ 18 Oct 2015 04:05 GMT ]

The 30 year war in Sri Lanka's Northern Province has had a severe psychological effect on the children. [Full Story]

Translating human experience through literature
[ The Intelligencer ] [ 17 Oct 2015 03:44 GMT ]

Something happened to make them refugees. Nobody leaves your home by choice. [Full Story]

The challenge of doing what is right in Sri Lanka
[ UCA News ] [ 16 Oct 2015 05:37 GMT ]

Church and religious leaders should help their communities face up to the stories of their brothers and sisters crying out through the report. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka promises urgent action on Tamil prisoners
[ The Hindu ] [ 15 Oct 2015 03:55 GMT ]

Tamil and human rights group have called for repealing of PTA, introduced in 1979. [Full Story]

Tamil Prisoners in Sri Lanka Have Gone On Hunger Strike to Demand Their Freedom
[ TIME ] [ 14 Oct 2015 01:41 GMT ]

Hundreds of Tamil prisoners in Sri Lanka, many of whom have spent nearly two decades in jail without seeing the inside of a courtroom, have initiated a hunger strike to demand their immediate release. [Full Story]

After dodging war crimes probe, Lanka focuses on truth, reconciliation
[ Asia Times ] [ 13 Oct 2015 03:01 GMT ]

It will also be up to the international community and the Sri Lankan authorities to ensure that the victims and their families are genuinely consulted at every step of the process to get to truth and justice. [Full Story]

Six years after the end of Sri Lanka's civil war, Tamils in Jaffna still struggling to rebuild their lives
[ ABC ] [ 12 Oct 2015 04:29 GMT ]

The Sri Lankan government's promise of a process for transitional justice "provides room for some optimism". [Full Story]

'We have talked so much about it, and it just goes nowhere.'
[ The Washington Post ] [ 11 Oct 2015 02:11 GMT ]

Without accurate translations of testimony that can be shared across communities, the new transitional justice process cannot hope to provide an honest reckoning of the past and contribute to reconciliation. [Full Story]

TNA Hopes UNHRC Resolution Will Mark A New Chapter In Sri Lanka's Quest For Reconciliation
[ CT ] [ 10 Oct 2015 03:15 GMT ]

We urge the government to implement the resolution in a spirit of honesty and cooperation. [Full Story]

Lives Remain In Ruin Six Years After Sri Lanka Civil War
[ Worldcrunch ] [ 09 Oct 2015 02:34 GMT ]

Demilitarization in the north had been one of the key issues of legislative elections. [Full Story]

Great expectations in Sri Lanka
[ The Hindu ] [ 08 Oct 2015 01:03 GMT ]

It opens up yet another opportunity for a political solution. [Full Story]

Cardin Speech on the Importance of Accountability in Sri Lanka
[ U.S Senate Committee on Foreign Relations ] [ 07 Oct 2015 04:14 GMT ]

The goal is to conduct a process where all sides are provided a measure of justice that leads to durable reconciliation and a marked departure from armed conflict. [Full Story]

Treasures of the Indus - Of Gods and Men
[ BBC iPlayer ] [ 06 Oct 2015 01:02 GMT ]

In a journey across India's Tamil Nadu state, Sona Datta traces the development of the Hindu religion from its origins as an amalgamation of local faith traditions. [Full Story] [Video]

Strong calls for Sri Lanka to implement said commitments and deliver justice as OISL discussed at UNHRC
[ Tamil Guardian ] [ 05 Oct 2015 02:22 GMT ]

Calling for the root cause of the ethnic conflict and violations in Sri Lanka to be addressed, statements called for a devolution of power to the Tamil community as a measure towards non-recurrence of crimes. [Full Story]

Sri Lankans disabled by war, forgotten in peace
[ IRIN News ] [ 04 Oct 2015 01:58 GMT ]

There is no programme to help civilians and former Tamil Tigers who remain permanently affected by injuries during the war. [Full Story]

UNHRC resolution on Sri Lanka: PM statement 2 October 2015
[ 10 Downing Street ] [ 03 Oct 2015 03:11 GMT ]

I urge President Sirisena to develop the work he has already started - to build a peaceful, prosperous and united country where every community has a voice. [Full Story]

The UNHRC adopts consensus resolution on Sri Lanka
[ Channel4 ] [ 03 Oct 2015 02:02 GMT ]

An immediate focus of campaigning will be for the establishment of properly staffed and adequately funded regional office of the OHCHR in the Jaffna or Kilinochchi areas of the north. [Full Story]

U.N. rights boss urges Sri Lanka to probe secret jails, missing people
[ Reuters ] [ 02 Oct 2015 05:57 GMT ]

Sri Lanka must investigate reports of secret places of detention and set up a "credible and independent" body to clarify the fate of people missing. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka: UN war crimes resolution marks a turning point for victims
[ Amnesty International ] [ 01 Oct 2015 19:14 GMT ]

A crucial resolution adopted at the UN Human Rights Council today offers the victims of Sri Lanka's armed conflict the prospect of finally getting the truth and justice they deserve, Amnesty International said. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka war crimes resolution softened before U.N. debate
[ Reuters ] [ 01 Oct 2015 00:05 GMT ]

Some diplomats say that reflects the balancing act needed to keep Sri Lanka's new reformist leadership on board while making a credible attempt to end a culture of impunity. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka: UN Resolution Could Advance Justice
[ Human Rights Watch ] [ 30 Sep 2015 00:03 GMT ]

'The resolution's endorsement of a judicial mechanism with international participation is an important recognition of the need for an international role to ensure justice for victims.' [Full Story]

The UN Human Rights Council Resolution on Sri Lanka is Tabled
[ The Diplomat ] [ 29 Sep 2015 05:15 GMT ]

'Getting a consensus resolution passed would be a huge leap forward for Sri Lanka after years of (international) isolation. [Full Story]

Interview: UN Report on Sri Lanka
[ The Diplomat ] [ 28 Sep 2015 00:05 GMT ]

There is a desire not to fight each other. We have to find the correct domestic mechanism to make it happen. [Full Story]

Dispatches: Awaiting Sri Lanka''s 'Courage and Leadership'
[ Human Rights Watch ] [ 27 Sep 2015 04:40 GMT ]

The main sponsors of this resolution, led by the United States, owe it to Sri Lankan victims - and to their own credibility - to properly deliver justice for these terrible crimes. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka likely to dodge international war crime probe
[ AFP ] [ 26 Sep 2015 00:02 GMT ]

The Tamil National Alliance (TNA) said the resolution, initiated by the US and co-sponsored by Sri Lanka, was the "product of a difficult consensus". [Full Story]

At U.N., Pope rails against craving for wealth and power
[ Reuters ] [ 25 Sep 2015 21:39 GMT ]

"In opposing every attempt to create a rigid uniformity, we can and must build unity on the basis of our diversity of languages, cultures and religions," Francis said. [Full Story]

Resolution on Sri Lanka at the 30th Session of the UN Human Rights Council
[ U.S. State Department ] [ 25 Sep 2015 11:44 GMT ]

Today the United States, Sri Lanka, and our partners tabled a resolution at the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva that represents a landmark shared recognition of the critical importance of truth, justice, reparations, and guarantees of non-recurrence in promoting reconciliation and ensuring an enduring peace and prosperity for all Sri Lankans. [Full Story]

Help Sri Lanka face the truth
[ The Asian Age ] [ 24 Sep 2015 03:11 GMT ]

Healing an ethnically fractured country is more important. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka's watershed moment
[ The Boston Globe ] [ 23 Sep 2015 05:01 GMT ]

The process of accountability in Sri Lanka has to be accompanied by domestic pursuit of a lasting political solution. [Full Story]

Tamil women ready to forgive murderers but they want the truth
[ Asia News ] [ 22 Sep 2015 04:08 GMT ]

For the women, the 'eye for eye, tooth for tooth' attitude towards the harm received did not bring any results so far. "For this reason, we must forgive and seek justice right away. [Full Story]

Statement on the UN Sri Lanka Investigation Report
[ International Crisis Group ] [ 21 Sep 2015 02:15 GMT ]

Their acceptance by the government and strong follow-through by the president and prime minister can be a path-breaking moment in Sri Lanka's democratic recovery and its emergence as a more stable and inclusive state. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka Says New Govt Averted Much Adverse UN Report
[ Outlook India ] [ 20 Sep 2015 01:08 GMT ]

Foreign Minister Mangala Samaraweera said Sri Lanka needs to look at the report in a sense of satisfaction as the country will no longer face economic sanctions. [Full Story]

The fine balance of hybrid courts
[ The Hindu ] [ 19 Sep 2015 05:51 GMT ]

It stops short of calling for an international investigation, preferring instead to advocate a 'hybrid court' - a mechanism utilised in aid of transitional justice. [Full Story]

UN officials outraged at accounts of Sri Lanka war crimes, stress need for accountability
[ United Nations ] [ 18 Sep 2015 04:35 GMT ]

'This is a process that will be painful and difficult, but indispensable for long-lasting peace and stability in the country,' [Full Story]

Sri Lanka: UN Members Should Back Hybrid Court
[ Human Rights Watch ] [ 17 Sep 2015 05:44 GMT ]

'The Sri Lankan government should build on the goodwill of the international community and embrace this important initiative.' [Full Story]

UN Human Rights Council urges Sri Lanka war crimes court
[ BBC ] [ 16 Sep 2015 15:55 GMT ]

UN Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Ra'ad Al Hussein said only a special court with international magistrates and investigators would be up to the huge task of examining the alleged crimes over a nine year period. [Full Story] [UNHRC Report] [UNHRC Full Report]

Without trust, Sri Lanka cannot investigate its own war crimes
[ The Guardian UK ] [ 15 Sep 2015 05:02 GMT ]

The survivors do not believe their government is capable of ensuring justice. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka's 'Accountability' Dilemma
[ The Diplomat ] [ 14 Sep 2015 00:03 GMT ]

It appears that Colombo will be given a chance to find truth and justice on its own terms - at least for the time being. [Full Story]

Call to probe Sri Lanka war crimes
[ Independent Online ] [ 13 Sep 2015 02:05 GMT ]

President Maithripala Sirisena, who is backed overwhelmingly by ethnic minority Tamils and Muslims, has promised a domestic probe with international standards to address abuses and reconciliation. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka: It's Time to Turn Promises Into Action
[ Foreign Policy ] [ 12 Sep 2015 03:53 GMT ]

In order to help ensure that Colombo fully commits to reform, sustained engagement from the United States and other members of the international community is more important than ever. [Full Story]

Documentary urges international justice for Sri Lankan war victims
[ Reuters ] [ 11 Sep 2015 14:01 GMT ]

"Most of the Tamil victims believe that a purely domestic judicial process would be nothing less than a victor's court," Macrae said [Full Story]

Some 30,000 displaced Tamil still suffering
[ Asia News ] [ 10 Sep 2015 05:15 GMT ]

We want to see them get out of their currently subhuman conditions and start to lead a decent living.' [Full Story]

TNA Wants International Court, Not International Probe
[ The New Indian Express ] [ 09 Sep 2015 03:47 GMT ]

The UNHRC investigation's report will necessitate an international judicial process. [Full Story]

Human misery behind a cup of tea
[ BBC ] [ 08 Sep 2015 03:55 GMT ]

Living and working conditions are so bad, and wages so low, that tea workers and their families are left malnourished and vulnerable to fatal illnesses. [Full Story]

Hopes rise for closure over Sri Lanka's wartime 'disappeared'
[ Financial Times ] [ 07 Sep 2015 14:14 GMT ]

How Sri Lanka plans to examine all this remains unclear. [Full Story]

Investigate enforced disappearances, activists urge Sri Lanka
[ Vatican Radio ] [ 06 Sep 2015 03:18 GMT ]

"It is the right of the parents to know what happened to their loved ones," [Full Story]

'The new government should give priority to housing and land rights'
[ Frontline ] [ 05 Sep 2015 01:55 GMT ]

TNA leaders should adopt a rational and gradual approach in getting their demands fulfilled. [Full Story]

The Curse of the Obama Doctrine
[ Foreign Policy ] [ 04 Sep 2015 05:24 GMT ]

The abrogation by the world's leading power of its leadership responsibilities has contributed to the contemporary tragedy we are witnessing. [Full Story]

Ethnic Tamil lawmaker becomes opposition leader in Sri Lanka for first time in decades
[ Fox News ] [ 03 Sep 2015 12:48 GMT ]

Sri Lanka's Parliament has recognized an ethnic Tamil lawmaker as the opposition leader for the first time in decades in what is seen a positive step toward post civil-war reconciliation with the minority community. [Full Story]

Finding peace in post-war Sri Lanka - What's being done to achieve reconciliation after war?
[ Al Jazeera ] [ 02 Sep 2015 04:14 GMT ]

Human rights activists also say torture and enforced disappearances are still being used by government forces against Tamils to intimidate and discourage dissent. [Full Story]

Roadmap to reconciliation: 4 post-election challenges for Sri Lanka
[ Open Democracy ] [ 01 Sep 2015 00:54 GMT ]

The government needs to begin providing clear indications of plans for addressing wartime accountability and, in the longer term, reconciliation. [Full Story]

Daybreak in Lanka
[ The Statesman ] [ 01 Sep 2015 00:16 GMT ]

Even after six years of the end of the civil war, the war-weary Tamils' most urgent needs remain unmet. [Full Story]

Tamil parties turn down U.S. call for internal 'war crimes' probe
[ The Hindu ] [ 31 Aug 2015 04:02 GMT ]

The three parties did not trust in the domestic mechanism in view of past experiences. [Full Story]

Tamils Firm on Demand for International Inquiry: TNA
[ The New Indian Express ] [ 30 Aug 2015 03:55 GMT ]

'Just as the Sri Lankan government has an agenda which it will press, we Tamils also have an agenda, which we will press,' [Full Story]

DMK, PMK condemn U.S. stand on Sri Lanka
[ The Hindu ] [ 29 Aug 2015 02:58 GMT ]

'The U.S. government's move looks as if it wants to cover up the war crimes. I hope it will not happen. [Full Story]

Sri Lankan Tamils still wait for elusive reconciliation
[ UCA News ] [ 28 Aug 2015 05:49 GMT ]

"A number of unresolved issues remain, including the lack of progress toward a long-term political solution, human rights violations, thousands of widows, political prisoners and disappeared, allegations of crimes against humanity and war crimes," [Full Story]

U.S. to work with Sri Lanka on UN resolution addressing alleged war crimes
[ Reuters ] [ 27 Aug 2015 04:05 GMT ]

Washington will move the resolution, to address responsibility for alleged human rights abuses and propose a framework for reconciliation. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka's parliamentary election - Mahinda misfires
[ The Economist ] [ 26 Aug 2015 01:27 GMT ]

The new government has a chance to resolve decades of ethnic strife between the Sinhalese majority and the Tamils. [Full Story]

US Cautions Patience, Cites Progress in Sri Lanka Reconciliation
[ Voice of America ] [ 25 Aug 2015 02:55 GMT ]

U.S. officials said Tuesday it will take time for Sri Lanka to achieve reconciliation following the country's 26-year civil war, but that the new government in Colombo is making positive steps in that direction. [Full Story]

Tamil refugee: How Australia is complicit in Sri Lankan genocide
[ Greenleft ] [ 24 Aug 2015 03:47 GMT ]

Only an international investigation will ensure that all those who committed war crimes and crimes against humanity are held accountable for what they did. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka Chooses Change
[ Despatch Times ] [ 23 Aug 2015 04:08 GMT ]

Wickremesinghe agreed with President Sirisena's party to form a national unity government to push ahead with reforms. [Full Story]

UN boss Ban Ki-moon calls on Sri Lankan government to forge 'long term peace'
[ South China Morning Post ] [ 22 Aug 2015 03:28 GMT ]

In a memorandum of understanding, the two parties pledged to ensure 'ethnic and religious reconciliation' in a country that still bears the scars of a separatist war. [Full Story]

Sri Lankan ice-cream parlour gains fame after surviving brutal conflict
[ Channel News Asia ] [ 21 Aug 2015 02:38 GMT ]

For many, their trip to Jaffna would not be complete without a stop at its most popular ice-cream parlour. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka Wants to Be the Next Singapore as War Legacy Fades
[ Bloomberg ] [ 20 Aug 2015 00:07 GMT ]

'The danger is if the pace of progress on this reconciliation agenda doesn't pick up you will get growing frustration among Tamils.' [Full Story]

Sri Lankan PM warns against return to divisive politics
[ Channel News Asia ] [ 19 Aug 2015 09:52 GMT ]

Tamil National Alliance (TNA), which holds the balance of power with 16 seats, will allow the party to carry out promised political and economic reforms. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka's voters invited to turn page on fractious past
[ EuroNews ] [ 18 Aug 2015 00:02 GMT ]

Voters have a clear choice between future promise or past glory, a unity or nationalist government. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka elections: Results of 'peaceful vote' awaited
[ BBC ] [ 17 Aug 2015 17:01 GMT ]

The president's seven months in power have seen a very gradual easing of the human rights situation. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka calls on international help to find former first family's alleged foreign fortune
[ The Telegraph ] [ 16 Aug 2015 01:45 GMT ]

Mr Rajapaksa turned the country's government into a family affair. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka: Ensure Safe, Secure, Free Polls
[ Human Rights Watch ] [ 15 Aug 2015 05:08 GMT ]

'Meeting the basic requirements of a free and fair election is an important step toward addressing the country's persistent rights problems.' [Full Story]

Luxury Sri Lanka resort can't hide country's divisions
[ BBC ] [ 14 Aug 2015 05:48 GMT ]

Some of its resorts hide dark secrets. [Full Story]

Five Things to Know About Sri Lanka's General Elections
[ TIME ] [ 13 Aug 2015 22:54 GMT ]

Minority votes are likely to go in favor of Sirisena's supporters. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka Between Elections
[ International Crisis Group ] [ 12 Aug 2015 11:12 GMT ]

Sri Lanka's chance to finally start on the road to a sustainable resolution of the country's decades-long ethnic strife, including a negotiated political settlement, depends on the outcome. [Full Story]

VISION OF HOPE - Part II - Freedom
[ TWG ] [ 12 Aug 2015 02:12 GMT ]

The Tamil question must be resolved within the framework of a federal system that is free of interference from Colombo, with Tamils able to exercise their desire to control their own lives, to rule their own destinies, and to govern themselves in their traditional home land. [Full Story]

Sundar Pichai and the world of Indian CEOs
[ BBC ] [ 11 Aug 2015 12:06 GMT ]

The Times of India hailed the "quiet yet thoughtful" man from Chennai (Madras). [Full Story]

In Peaceful Sri Lanka, Army Holds Thousands Of Acres Seized In Civil War
[ NPR ] [ 10 Aug 2015 03:15 GMT ]

For thousands of civilians displaced by war, the fight to recover their land continues. [Full Story]

Party loyalty should not be sole criterion for election, Sri Lankan bishops say
[ UCA News ] [ 09 Aug 2015 04:57 GMT ]

The bishops urged citizens to think of present and future generations by electing representatives with great care. [Full Story]

India must ensure decentralisation in Sri Lanka
[ First Post ] [ 08 Aug 2015 00:02 GMT ]

In her memorandum, Jayalalitha said India had a commitment to protect the Tamil minority community in Sri Lanka. [Full Story]

ACF killings: No justice 9 years on
[ Tamil Guardian ] [ 07 Aug 2015 03:15 GMT ]

In 2014 ACF publically accused Sri Lanka of delaying justice for the massacres and called for an international inquiry into the killings. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka: If It's Not Decisive, It Can Be A Divisive Election - Analysis
[ Eurasia Review ] [ 06 Aug 2015 04:08 GMT ]

For the first time in decades, it looks as if the Tamils cannot be blamed for divisiveness. [Full Story]

Tamil people and all citizens of Sri Lanka need to consolidate the recent progressive changes in the country
[ GTF ] [ 05 Aug 2015 05:05 GMT ]

The resolution of the Tamil problem invariably will involve meaningful negotiations between the Government of Sri Lanka and the elected representatives of the Tamil people. [Full Story PDF]

Sri Lanka Massacred Tens of Thousands of Tamils While the World Looked Away
[ VICE ] [ 04 Aug 2015 01:15 GMT ]

For the traumatized Tamils, such a domestic process would be the final insult-nothing less than victor's justice over a beaten people. [Full Story]

Sri Lankan Tamils push for autonomy and justice; hopes pinned on an upcoming election
[ The Economic Times ] [ 04 Aug 2015 00:51 GMT ]

"After the new government came to power, Tamil people are slowly breathing again," [Full Story]

Tamil community unites to preserve culture, do community service
[ Essex News Daily ] [ 03 Aug 2015 00:02 GMT ]

Dozens of Tamils - who belong to an ethnic group based primarily in Sri Lanka and Southern India that dates back more than 5,000 years - paid tribute to their culture. [Full Story]

Internal UN document details plan for 'domestic probe' in Sri Lanka
[ Tamil Guardian ] [ 02 Aug 2015 04:01 GMT ]

The Northern Provincial Council is mentioned as one of the key implementing partners of the project. [Full Story]

The 'Unfinished War' Against Sri Lanka's Tamils
[ The Diplomat ] [ 01 Aug 2015 01:05 GMT ]

Let's hope that those walking the corridors of power in Washington, London, Geneva and elsewhere haven't forgotten that sustained, constructive engagement with Sri Lanka is absolutely essential. [Full Story]

Injustice is still the lot of many of Sri Lanka's war widows
[ Asia News ] [ 31 July 2015 02:48 GMT ]

After 30 years of bloody civil war, a group of dozens of Tamil war widows met with a delegation of foreign diplomats on 24 July and made a desperate plea that their suffering not be forgotten. [Full Story]

A Still Unfinished War: Sri Lanka's Survivors of Torture and Sexual Violence 2009-2015
[ International Truth & Justice Project ] [ 30 July 2015 03:33 GMT ]

Family members remaining in Sri Lanka of those who protest or speak out in the media about torture from abroad are also being killed, disappeared, physically hurt or threatened. [Full Story PDF]

Sri Lanka justice: leaked UN document casts doubts
[ Channel4 ] [ 29 July 2015 05:35 GMT ]

A leaked UN document raises concerns over the prospects for genuine justice for the Sri Lankan victims of alleged war crimes. [Full Story]

Abdul Kalam: People's president, extraordinary Indian
[ BBC ] [ 28 July 2015 07:07 GMT ]

A scientist who could recite classical Tamil poetry, who played the rudra-veena, a traditional South Indian instrument. [Full Story]

Activists commemorate 'Black July' in Sri Lanka
[ UCA News ] [ 28 July 2015 00:07 GMT ]

'Tamils still live in fear in the country.' [Full Story]

TAMIL ACADEMIC PROGRAMS
[ Harvard University ] [ 27 July 2015 05:22 GMT ]

Tamil has one of the oldest literary traditions in the world with traceable beginnings to over 2,000 years ago and is spoken by over 65 million people worldwide. [Full Story]

The Tamil National Alliance - Ilankai Tamil Arasu Kadchi - Parliamentary Election Manifesto - 2015
[ CT ] [ 26 July 2015 05:55 GMT ]

The TNA calls upon the voters in the electoral districts of Jaffna, Vanni, Trincomalee, Batticaloa and Ampara to unitedly and overwhelmingly exercise their franchise in favour of the TNA. [Full Story]

TNA reiterates self determination, North-East re-merger
[ The Hindu ] [ 25 July 2015 15:09 GMT ]

The Tamil National Alliance (TNA), a coalition of four parties in Sri Lanka, on Saturday reiterated its adherence to the right to self determination for Tamils and the re-merger of the Northern and Eastern Provinces under federal structure. [Full Story]

Riots helped to define Canada's Tamil community
[ Toronto Star ] [ 24 July 2015 04:05 GMT ]

Black July, therefore, was an enormously important turning point in Sri Lanka, but also marked, in a very real way, the birth of a successful and influential diaspora. [Full Story]

Black July anniversary: the legacy of the Tamil massacre in Sri Lanka
[ The Week ] [ 24 July 2015 04:01 GMT ]

More than three decades later, no one has been prosecuted for the atrocities committed. [Full Story]

From Black July 1983 to Manifestos For Peace
[ Sri Lanka Guardian ] [ 23 July 2015 02:57 GMT ]

The people need to be told of the problems that should be solved for the country to march forward. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka's Tamil party says to push for political solution to Tamil issues
[ Shanghai Daily ] [ 23 July 2015 02:44 GMT ]

The Tamil National Alliance (TNA), on Monday said it will push for a permanent political solution to issues faced by the Tamils. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka - in-year update July 2015
[ Foreign & Commonwealth Office UK ] [ 22 July 2015 00:04 GMT ]

The human rights situation in Sri Lanka improved during the first half of 2015, although some concerns remain. [Full Story]

Is Sri Lanka's Rajapaksa making a comeback?
[ BBC ] [ 21 July 2015 03:11 GMT ]

Creating space for a political comeback by Mr Rajapaksa has irked many who voted for Mr Sirisena in January. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka PM promises devolution
[ The Asian Age ] [ 20 July 2015 01:01 GMT ]

His government would look to devolve power in an undivided island, Mr Wickremesinghe said. [Full Story]

The American Stake in Myanmar and Sri Lanka
[ The Diplomat ] [ 19 July 2015 01:55 GMT ]

Washington has made it clear that democratic progress must continue, and that there must be accountability for the killings at the end of the civil war for bilateral relations to improve. [Full Story]

Irony, thy name is Sri Lanka
[ Business Standard ] [ 18 July 2015 02:27 GMT ]

A quick recap for those who haven't followed politics in Sri Lanka closely. [Full Story]

EU to observe Parliamentary Elections in Sri Lanka
[ EU ] [ 17 July 2015 01:03 GMT ]

This shows our continued commitment to work with Sri Lanka to strengthen democracy by advancing the openness and inclusivity of the election process". [Full Story]

'Tamil people must attain self-rule'
[ Tamil Guardian ] [ 16 July 2015 05:08 GMT ]

The Northern Province Chief Minister, C. V. Wigneswaran, has stressed that comprehensive autonomy for Tamils in the North-East is the only way of recovering from the effects of genocide. [Full Story]

Thousands flock to Walsingham for annual Tamil pilgrimage
[ Lynn News ] [ 15 July 2015 00:05 GMT ]

More than 11,000 Tamil pilgrims took part in their second pilgrimage to Walsingham this year at the weekend. [Full Story]

Veteran Indian composer MS Vishwanathan dies
[ BBC ] [ 14 July 2015 09:58 GMT ]

Vishwanathan's compositions "transcended every known category of music. [Full Story]

WhatsApp reunion for Lankan refugee siblings after 36 yrs
[ The Times of India ] [ 13 July 2015 02:34 GMT ]

A 72-year-old refugee reunited with his 76-year-old sister on Friday in the city, thanks to social networking mobile application. [Full Story]

Political Risk Around the World in Third Quarter 2015
[ The Huffington Post ] [ 12 July 2015 05:41 GMT ]

Mahinda Rajapaksa is eyeing a comeback as a prime ministerial candidate - this could lead to residual ethnic tensions resurfacing as Sri Lanka still works on post-conflict reconciliation. [Full Story]

For Sri Lanka's displaced Tamils, homecoming is bittersweet
[ The Star ] [ 11 July 2015 01:09 GMT ]

Only a handful of villagers have been able to reclaim their property in full. [Full Story]

Sri Lankan politics - Rajapaksa redux
[ The Economist ] [ 10 July 2015 03:29 GMT ]

A fragmented result, with nobody getting a comfortable majority, is quite possible. [Full Story]

Tamil Doctors and the Sri Lankan War
[ BBC ] [ 09 July 2015 04:23 GMT ]

Hear his memories of the fighting, and the bizarre press conference he was required to take part in after the killing had stopped. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka: Seize this opportunity for true reform
[ The Hill ] [ 08 July 2015 05:22 GMT ]

The country's Tamil population in the North and East remains disempowered and displaced. [Full Story]

The Slow Process of Reconciliation in Sri Lanka
[ Citizens for Global Solutions ] [ 07 July 2015 02:49 GMT ]

The beginning is going to be frustrating for everyone involved, especially for those who suffered the most. [Full Story]

All Party Parliamentary Group for Tamils agrees objectives for new Parliament
[ Tamil Guardian ] [ 06 July 2015 00:07 GMT ]

They would not rule out encouraging the British government to employ soft powers, to further the objective of promoting reconciliation and human rights in Sri Lanka, including through supporting the UN investigation into war crimes. [Full Story]

Bittersweet return for Sri Lanka's displaced Tamils
[ UCA News ] [ 05 July 2015 05:04 GMT ]

'There will be no real peace or reconciliation unless the government treats all of its citizens on an equal footing and respects their civil rights.' [Full Story]

Sri Lankan activists, Tamils and Buddhists together against all forms of torture
[ Asia News ] [ 04 July 2015 02:47 GMT ]

"Torture belongs to a slave society. It is cruel, inhuman and not suitable to a free society. [Full Story]

Politics in Sri Lanka - Come again?
[ The Economist ] [ 03 July 2015 05:05 GMT ]

But having been elected to keep Mr Rajapaksa at bay, Mr Sirisena has little choice. [Full Story]

Looking to Sri Lanka's Parliamentary Election
[ The Huffington Post ] [ 02 July 2015 01:25 GMT ]

And yet six months on, so much remains unknown and more drama is sure to come. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka's War Widows Pin Hopes on New President
[ NDTV ] [ 01 July 2015 03:40 GMT ]

Widows and the wider Tamil community argue there is still a long way to go, including meeting a key demand to remove large concentrations of troops still stationed in the north. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka's War Is Long Over, But Reconciliation Remains Elusive
[ NPR ] [ 30 June 2015 00:04 GMT ]

The war cannot be over as long as what happened to the disappeared like her son remains a mystery, and she's counting on the new government to solve it. [Full Story]

Jayalalithaa launches Chennai Metro Rail
[ The Times of India ] [ 29 June 2015 07:25 GMT ]

The metro rail is expected to cover 32 stations in the coming years. [Full Story]

Shattered, but Unbroken: Survivors of torture in Sri Lanka
[ JDS ] [ 28 June 2015 18:01 GMT ]

The absence of justice is further compounded by the dirty smog of denial that blankets the truth. [Full Story]

PM Nagamootoo says… Yoga presents another avenue to 'tackle scourges'
[ Guyana Chronicle ] [ 27 June 2015 01:55 GMT ]

The Indian High Commissioner to Guyana, Mr V. Mahalingham, indicated that India is proud that the United Nations has approved the proposal. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka's president dissolves parliament
[ BBC ] [ 26 June 2015 15:38 GMT ]

Mr Sirisena defeated incumbent Mahinda Rajapaksa in presidential elections held in January. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka - Country Reports on Human Rights Practices for 2014
[ U.S. State Department ] [ 26 June 2015 04:29 GMT ]

Throughout the year numerous reports emerged regarding the killing of suspects under questionable circumstances while in police custody. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka says war crimes probe delayed by elections
[ AFP ] [ 25 June 2015 05:25 GMT ]

Up to 40,000 civilians were killed in the military's final push to end the war against ethnic minority Tamil rebels. [Full Story]

In Defence of Diaspora and Sri Lanka's Invisible Victims
[ The Huffington Post ] [ 24 June 2015 02:57 GMT ]

Hundreds of recent survivors of the very worst abuses who are now abroad against their will. [Full Story]

Young refugees in TN keen on trying luck in Sri Lanka
[ Business Standard ] [ 23 June 2015 03:05 GMT ]

Going to Sri Lanka to start life anew deserved serious thought. [Full Story]

Yoga: A harmony of mind, body & soul
[ The Statesman ] [ 22 June 2015 02:28 GMT ]

The show will be telecast in five languages including Hindi, English, Tamil, Telugu and Bangla. [Full Story]

Age-old Tolerant Haven Warrants Legal Props
[ New Indian Express ] [ 21 June 2015 04:44 GMT ]

We should renew our commitment to extend our helping hand to these unfortunate people who have been forced to flee their homeland due to insecurity and persecution. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka returns land confiscated by military during decades-long war
[ IRIN ] [ 20 June 2015 05:25 GMT ]

'Winning the hearts and minds of these people is a hard task and will take years,' [Full Story]

Number displaced worldwide hits record high - UN report
[ BBC ] [ 19 June 2015 02:50 GMT ]

The number of people displaced by war, conflict or persecution reached a record high. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka: Balancing Ties Between China and the West
[ The Diplomat ] [ 18 June 2015 04:01 GMT ]

The next elections will determine whether Sri Lanka opposes or cooperates with the UN Human Rights Council, and whether it aligns with the East or the West. [Full Story]

Justice in Sri Lanka: With just 273 people in custody, how many disappeared?
[ Asian Correspondent ] [ 17 June 2015 09:22 GMT ]

This announcement also hardens doubts if a Sri Lankan-led judicial process into mass atrocities, such as disappearances, will bring justice to the victims. [Full Story]

Stateless in Tamil Nadu
[ The Statesman ] [ 16 June 2015 03:55 GMT ]

She had the qualifying marks but was denied a seat as she is a refugee child. [Full Story]

29th Human Rights Council: General debate following High Commissioner's update
[ Human Rights Watch ] [ 15 June 2015 05:48 GMT ]

In establishing a credible and transparent justice and accountability process, the new government in Sri Lanka should ensure genuine consultations with those affected by violations, enhance the security and independence of the process. [Full Story]

Can reconciliation heal Sri Lankan war wounds?
[ The Washington Post ] [ 14 June 2015 04:17 GMT ]

The government only allowed families to return in April, six years after the end of the civil war that claimed more than 80,000 lives. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka's Wounds of War
[ Foreign Policy ] [ 13 June 2015 05:08 GMT ]

It remains too early to say for now how far Sri Lanka will be able to go in mending its strained past. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka, an appeal from the north: Save the Tamils from the army (and drugs)
[ Asia News ] [ 12 June 2015 05:27 GMT ]

Drug dealers have spread drugs to prevent young people from the north from furthering their education, to reduce their sense of freedom and hamper their progress. [Full Story]

Asylum seekers should not be sent back to Sri Lanka yet, say religious leaders
[ The Guardian UK ] [ 11 June 2015 02:49 GMT ]

It is too early to send asylum seekers back to the country, despite the recent change of government. [Full Story]

More Electoral Surprises in Sri Lanka?
[ Foreign Policy ] [ 10 June 2015 01:28 GMT ]

It would be unfortunate if elections are not held before that report is released. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka holds talks with Tamil diaspora in London
[ The Hindu ] [ 09 June 2015 00:45 GMT ]

It said the need for constructive engagement by the Sri Lankan diaspora was discussed, including the needs of displaced people. [Full Story]

Smartphone-wielding civilians to combat war crimes with an app
[ Reuters ] [ 09 June 2015 00:03 GMT ]

"Until now, it has been extremely difficult to verify the authenticity of these images and to protect the safety of those brave enough to record them," [Full Story]

Open Door to Uprooted Hill Country Tamils
[ The New Indian Express ] [ 08 June 2015 00:04 GMT ]

New Delhi should immediately make an exception in the case of hill country refugees and enact necessary laws. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka's constitution - All latest updates Strides in the right direction
[ The Economist ] [ 07 June 2015 00:54 GMT ]

The new president succeeds in curtailing the power of his own office. [Full Story]

The blight of militarisation
[ The Hindu ] [ 06 June 2015 01:25 GMT ]

The occupation by the military of the land of those displaced in the civil war is a prime cause of resentment. [Full Story]

Scores of Sri Lankan Tamils Still Living Under the 'Long Shadow of War'
[ IPS ] [ 05 June 2015 03:56 GMT ]

This is one of just many unanswered questions that could be put to rest by a just reconciliation process. [Full Story]

Indian Origin Tamil Parties Band to Fight for Political Rights
[ The New Indian Express ] [ 04 June 2015 02:07 GMT ]

"The TPA will take the IOT's issue to both the national and international levels," [Full Story]

After the World's First Female Premier, Sri Lanka Struggles For Equality in Politics
[ The Wall Street Journal ] [ 03 June 2015 05:27 GMT ]

Minority rights have received significant attention resulting in proposals to increase the present 225 seats in Parliament to 255 to accommodate more Tamil and Muslim legislators. [Full Story]

British Tamil Forum Seeks India's Help in Sri Lanka
[ PTI ] [ 02 June 2015 04:41 GMT ]

The point was made and unanimously applauded that peaceful and diplomatic avenues only remain our work-ethic base,". [Full Story]

Sri Lanka: The more things change...
[ Frontline India ] [ 01 June 2015 03:07 GMT ]

The current developments are open-ended and that it may be premature yet to uncross our fingers. [Full Story]

Atrocities in the frame
[ Open Democracy ] [ 31 May 2015 01:14 GMT ]

Documentaries such as No Fire Zone perform a politically crucial service in safeguarding the subjectivity and the very humanity. [Full Story]

Tamils brave harassment, threats to mourn their dead
[ CM ] [ 30 May 2015 02:09 GMT ]

Uninvited guests from the security forces took photos of all the participants who were mostly women in terrible grief. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka accused of waging 'silent war' as Tamil land is appropriated by army
[ The Guardian UK ] [ 29 May 2015 00:02 GMT ]

The study says thousands of Tamils are still internally displaced and without homes and livelihoods. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka president visits Jaffna over gang-rape anger
[ AFP ] [ 28 May 2015 00:05 GMT ]

Official figures show about 2,200 cases of rape and other forms of serious violence against women and children are reported annually. [Full Story]

Help at last for Sri Lanka war widows
[ IRIN ] [ 27 May 2015 01:08 GMT ]

Sri Lanka's new government estimated last month that Northern Province, which bore the brunt of the three decades of conflict, has an astonishing 50,000 families headed by single women. [Full Story]

Jacques Audiard hopes Dheepan's Cannes win will help Europe's migrants
[ The Guardian UK ] [ 26 May 2015 00:02 GMT ]

After his Palme d'Or win for the story of a former Tamil Tiger seeking a new life in France, Audiard said that it is 'important to reflect' on the current situation. [Full Story]

Cannes winner stars Sri Lankan former child soldier
[ AFP ] [ 25 May 2015 04:50 GMT ]

"Even today, we don't know how many prisoners of war were captured by the government, we have no real information." [Full Story]

Army still holds 5,000 acres of private land
[ The Hindu ] [ 24 May 2015 00:02 GMT ]

At least 5,000 acres of private land, part of high security zones taken over by the Sri Lankan Army since 1990, are still in their posession, according to a study. [Full Story]

Jayalalitha: sworn in a chief minister of Tamil Nadu
[ BBC ] [ 23 May 2015 10:42 GMT ]

Supporters praise her poverty relief efforts. [Full Story]

Why accountability in Sri Lanka still matters
[ UCA News ] [ 22 May 2015 01:44 GMT ]

Accountability will help war-affected communities heal from a violent past. [Full Story]

Trying to rebuild their homes, and lives
[ The Hindu ] [ 21 May 2015 04:01 GMT ]

Nearly 25 years have passed by since his family left the house in June 1990 on the directions of the army. [Full Story]

Disappearances In Custody Six Years Ago Today
[ CT ] [ 20 May 2015 02:56 GMT ]

Families of the disappeared have repeatedly sought answers from the Government of Sri Lanka on the fate of loved ones. [Full Story]

Sri Lankan Tamils openly mark anniversary of war's end
[ The HIndustan Times ] [ 19 May 2015 03:41 GMT ]

Hundreds of Tamils lit oil lamps and gave offerings of flowers during a ceremony in Mullivaikkal village that was held openly for the first time after the country's new government lifted a ban on commemorating Tamil victims. [Full Story]

A new Sri Lanka?
[ International Crisis Group ] [ 19 May 2015 01:20 GMT ]

Sirisena has made a number of small but positive moves to address longstanding grievances of Tamils in the north and east where they are the majority. [Full Story]

VISION OF HOPE
[ TWG Editorial ] [ 18 May 2015 00:18 GMT ]

The question remains as to whether Tamils will be brave and prepared to move on from the past violent years of suffering by swapping a clear opportunity for peace. [Full Story]

Beyond Victory Parades & Commemorations
[ CT ] [ 18 May 2015 00:05 GMT ]

Only Realism, Truth and Justice can lead us to Peace. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka: New Army Chief a Blow to Justice
[ Human Rights Watch ] [ 17 May 2015 12:02 GMT ]

'The government's appointment of General Dias is further proof that Sri Lanka needs an independent justice process with a strong international component that can undertake impartial investigations and prosecutions,' Adams said. [Full Story]

'Majority of Tamil refugees not willing to return'
[ The Hindu ] [ 16 May 2015 03:28 GMT ]

'The refugees were scared of interrogation' [Full Story]

Acknowledging the plight of Sri Lanka's Tamil war widows
[ UCA News ] [ 15 May 2015 04:55 GMT ]

A generation of war widows was created, and the women left largely to fend for themselves. [Full Story]

In Sri Lanka, the aim today is to win the peace
[ The Daily Star ] [ 14 May 2015 12:02 GMT ]

Rajapaska made only the most halfhearted of efforts to bring about reconciliation with our Tamil citizens. [Full Story]

This Divided Island review by Samanth Subramanian - Sri Lanka's tragedy
[ The Guardian UK ] [ 13 May 2015 13:02 GMT ]

An account of the civil war in Sri Lanka and its aftermath is all the more devastating for withholding judgment. [Full Story]

Jayalalitha: India court clears ex-Tamil Nadu leader of corruption
[ BBC ] [ 12 May 2015 00:29 GMT ]

Monday's ruling means she can return as the head of Tamil Nadu government. [Full Story]

Why No Tamil Has Made It to British Parliament
[ Indian Express ] [ 11 May 2015 01:25 GMT ]

The Tamils lack encouragement from their families and the Tamil community to enter politics. [Full Story]

THE UNTOLD STORY - Growing up in the war zone of Sri Lanka
[ The Hindu ] [ 10 May 2015 02:59 GMT ]

'The war, for many victims struggling to put their lives back on track, is not over. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka: Small concessions, but Tamils still facing oppression
[ Green Left ] [ 09 May 2015 04:24 GMT ]

Sirisena defeated the incumbent Mahinda Rajapaksa, who had presided over a genocidal war against the Tamil people and then kept them under military occupation. [Full Story]

UK election results: David Cameron pledges a 'greater Britain'
[ BBC ] [ 08 May 2015 13:58 GMT ]

"In this parliament I will stay true to my word and implement as fast as I can the devolution that all parties agreed for Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland." [Full Story]

In search of truth in Lanka
[ The Hindu ] [ 07 May 2015 02:09 GMT ]

The one-hour film was screened at the Chennai Press Club here on Sunday as part of the World Press Freedom Day celebrations. [Full Story]

UK minister welcomes Conservative party stance on Sri Lanka, pledges to push for political solution for Tamils
[ Tamil Guardian ] [ 06 May 2015 04:55 GMT ]

'We will promote reconciliation and human rights in Sri Lanka, including through supporting the UN investigation into war crimes, which the Prime Minister was instrumental in securing following his historic visit to Jaffna.' [Full Story]

Tracing the Journey of Tamil Music
[ Indian Express ] [ 05 May 2015 01:13 GMT ]

The show will trace the journey of Tamil music in the last 75 years. [Full Story]

6 years after war, Tamil families want to know where their loved ones are
[ LA Times ] [ 04 May 2015 02:04 GMT ]

Sri Lankan authorities were holding about 8,000 people in "what may be the largest mass administrative detention anywhere in the world. [Full Story]

Kerry backs justice for Sri Lanka's war-hit Tamils
[ Daily Mail UK ] [ 03 May 2015 12:02 GMT ]

"Try to find wherever the truth may lead. No matter how painful that truth is," Kerry said. [Full Story]

John Kerry praises Sri Lanka government progress in peace process
[ IBNlive ] [ 02 May 2015 11:32 GMT ]

The US is expected to press the Sirisena government for a credible local mechanism. [Full Story]

Small steps forward? International pressure and accountability for atrocities in Sri Lanka
[ Open Democracy ] [ 01 May 2015 02:42 GMT ]

If governments that have committed atrocities won't prosecute themselves, and ICC action isn't on the table, is impunity in these cases a foregone conclusion? [Full Story]

Kerry Hopes to Reset US Relations With Sri Lanka
[ Voice of America ] [ 30 Apr 2015 01:57 GMT ]

During his trip, Kerry will meet with members of the Tamil National Alliance, elected officials who represent many of the country's ethnic Tamils. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka parliament votes to curb president's powers
[ BBC ] [ 29 Apr 2015 03:54 GMT ]

Sri Lanka's parliament has voted to curb the powers of the president and restore a two-term limit for incumbents. [Full Story]

"Squatters in Our Own Cities": The Displacement of Sri Lanka's Populations
[ Truthout ] [ 28 Apr 2015 01:47 GMT ]

The change in the Colombo government has also brought out a lot of hope as Tamils voted overwhelmingly against Rajapaksa's third term. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka: Widows of War
[ Aljazeera ] [ 27 Apr 2015 02:03 GMT ]

The guns have since fallen silent but 90,000 widows like Sivalingam are now struggling to earn enough to feed themselves and their children. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka - Frittered and frazzled
[ The Economist ] [ 26 Apr 2015 16:41 GMT ]

Divisions within the coalition have prevented the government fulfilling its grand promises for its early months. [Full Story]

Indian-origin Estate Workers Get Land With Papers in Sri Lanka
[ The Indian Express ] [ 25 Apr 2015 00:28 GMT ]

The government plans to give all 200,000 families land and houses. [Full Story]

Refugees don't need our tears. They need us to stop making them refugees
[ The Guardian UK] [ 24 Apr 2015 01:49 GMT ]

Migration illustrates one of the signal features of modern life, which is malice by proxy. [Full Story]

Federal solution recognising Tamil nation can solve ethnic problem in Sri Lanka
[ Tamil Guardian ] [ 23 Apr 2015 03:27 GMT ]

A federal arrangement that recognises Tamils as a distinct nation would solve the ethnic problem. [Full Story]

How countries cope with migrants seeking asylum by boat
[ CTV ] [ 22 Apr 2015 02:52 GMT ]

Two recent shipwrecks in the Mediterranean Sea believed to have taken the lives of as many as 1,300 asylum seekers and migrants has highlighted the escalating flow of people fleeing persecution, war and economic difficulties in their homelands. [Full Story]

Minority Report
[ The Asian Age ] [ 21 Apr 2015 03:18 GMT ]

Any democratic government has to be mindful of the views of small groups that have a significant number of votes. [Full Story]

The Wind Hums A Tamil Air
[ Outlook ] [ 20 Apr 2015 02:04 GMT ]

Ties had been built with Burma, Thailand, Cambodia and Indo­nesia, onward to China. Dominating this maritime trade were Tamil merchants. [Full Story]

Lankan Minorities Opposed to Changes in Electoral System
[ Outlook India ] [ 19 Apr 2015 01:09 GMT ]

"It is only under this system that minority parties were able to win representation in elected bodies," [Full Story]

Sri Lanka: Can Sirisena Deliver on Reforms?
[ The Diplomat ] [ 18 Apr 2015 00:25 GMT ]

Sri Lanka's complex political transition - towards more responsible governance, lasting institutional reform, and healing the wounds of three decades of war - is still in its early stages. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka: The more things change...
[ Frontline ] [ 17 Apr 2015 01:02 GMT ]

'successive governments asked the Lankan public to tolerate the curtailment of civil liberties under Emergency Regulations…. Over time, these restrictions created an entire generation that does not know what normalcy is.' [Full Story]

Fisherman caught in a struggle for survival
[ UCA News ] [ 16 Apr 2015 04:07 GMT ]

Indian fishing community depends on the waters of the Palk Strait for its livelihood. [Full Story]

Ancient skeletons found in India
[ BBC ] [ 15 Apr 2015 05:11 GMT ]

Mohenjo Daro is the world's oldest surviving city and dates back to the pre-Hindu Indus Valley civilisation. [Full Story]

APPGT chairman prays for 'new dawn'
[ Tamil Guardian ] [ 14 Apr 2015 04:14 GMT ]

'I wish you every success and a brighter future, and may I say Inya Tamizh Puthaandu Nalvaazhthukkal,' [Full Story]

Observations by the Special Rapporteur on the promotion of truth, justice, reparation and guarantees of non-recurrence
[ UN High Commissioner for Human Rights ] [ 13 Apr 2015 02:57 GMT ]

These obligations include the right to the full truth about the violations that took place during a long swath of its history; to the investigation, prosecution, and punishment of those responsible for those violations; to the effective and equitable reparation of the violations. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka releases army-controlled land in Northern Province
[ Business Standard ] [ 12 Apr 2015 01:41 GMT ]

Thousands dislocated during Sri Lanka's brutal war still live in camps for internally displaced persons. [Full Story]

The Seasons of Trouble book review: Peace by piece
[ Financial Express ] [ 11 Apr 2015 03:32 GMT ]

This happens in the closing months of 2008 when the Tamil dream of Eelam, an independent homeland in Sri Lanka's north and east, is crumbling. [Full Story]

Effective War Crimes Inquiry Could Heal Sri Lanka's Old Wounds
[ Inter Press Service ] [ 10 Apr 2015 00:05 GMT ]

Many feel that the country has a long way to go before the wounds of conflict are healed. [Full Story]

Senior UN official visits war-ravaged north of Sri Lanka
[ Xinhua ] [ 09 Apr 2015 02:29 GMT ]

A senior UN official has visited the war ravaged north to assess the development needs in the area and hold discussions with government officials. [Full Story]

Winning Sri Lanka's peace
[ Japan Times ] [ 08 Apr 2015 04:55 GMT ]

Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa made only the most half-hearted of efforts to bring about reconciliation with our Tamil citizens. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka's Tortuous Path to Reconciliation and Justice
[ Foreign Policy ] [ 07 Apr 2015 03:46 GMT ]

Transitional justice in Sri Lanka is unlikely to happen without sustained international pressure. [Full Story]

Talks held in Singapore on promoting reconciliation in Sri Lanka
[ Tamil Guardian ] [ 06 Apr 2015 03:08 GMT ]

It was agreed to continue this engagement and dialogue to accelerate the process of achieving meaningful reconciliation. [Full Story]

Easter: The silence of the innocent and the gag
[ Asia News ] [ 05 Apr 2015 05:41 GMT ]

Violations of religious freedom and the West's hypocricy surrounding this issue are likely to drag the world into an unprecedented chaos. [Full Story]

'Success depends on accountability and reconciliation' in Sri Lanka says US official
[ Tamil Guardian ] [ 04 Apr 2015 02:34 GMT ]

Experience has taught us that no society can move forward by burying the past. [Full Story]

Chandrika calls for national reconciliation
[ The Hindu ] [ 03 Apr 2015 02:05 GMT ]

The engagement between Colombo and the Tamil National Alliance, the main Tamil party representing Sri Lanka's northern Tamils, in her view, has been 'excellent.' [Full Story]

US says Sri Lanka failed after war
[ CG ] [ 02 Apr 2015 04:41 GMT ]

The United States says the opportunities that existed in 2009 to bring the country together were not seized. [Full Story]

EU reactivates LTTE ban after Sri Lanka protest
[ UCANews ] [ 01 Apr 2015 05:29 GMT ]

'The ban is not the answer; you must look into the root cause of the problem. [Full Story]

PM Invites Indian-origin Tamils to Delhi
[ New Indian Express ] [ 31 Mar 2015 01:24 GMT ]

The Indian leaders told Modi about their demand for 20,000 houses for Indian Origin Tamil estate workers in the Central Province. [Full Story]

A bridge too far: Special report from Sri Lanka
[ CNN-IBN ] [ 30 Mar 2015 03:21 GMT ]

The Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Sri Lanka and its impact on both the countries. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka plans legislation outlawing racist, religious extremist groups
[ Ecumenical News ] [ 29 Mar 2015 02:53 GMT ]

The proposed law is a step in the right direction considering the growing number of violent incidents against minorities in the country. [Full Story]

A House For Tamils
[ Outlook India ] [ 28 Mar 2015 00:11 GMT ]

We want a political solution first and only then, all this development.' [Full Story]

ICRC received over 16,000 requests to trace disappeared in Sri Lanka
[ Tamil Guardian ] [ 27 Mar 2015 00:07 GMT ]

"Their priority is the need to know the fate and whereabouts of a missing relative, without which they have no closure. [Full Story]

Chief Minister CV Vigneswaran's speech on IDP's
[ Lankasri ] [ 26 Mar 2015 00:02 GMT ]

The Chief Minister highlighted the plight of IDP's to the President including the necessity to provide compensation for the use of the private land. [Video]

Tamils in Sri Lanka hold demontrations demanding international probe into war crimes
[ First Post ] [ 25 Mar 2015 00:05 GMT ]

They claim to have no faith in the domestic investigation based on past experiences going slow on them and producing nothing meaningful. [Full Story]

'Lee Kuan Yew, a friend of Tamils'
[ The Hindu ] [ 24 Mar 2015 04:55 GMT ]

The Tamils across the world have lost a good friend. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka planning to lift 'terrorist' ban on Tamils abroad
[ Daily Mail UK ] [ 23 Mar 2015 03:09 GMT ]

Most of the groups as well as the individuals designated terrorist had merely been vocal proponents of Tamil rights. [Full Story]

Singapore's Lee Kuan Yew dies at 91
[ BBC ] [ 22 Mar 2015 21:01 GMT ]

Speaking at a press conference after the split in 1965, he pledged to build a meritocratic, multi-racial nation. [Full Story]

Malcolm Fraser: Former Australian PM dies aged 84
[ BBC ] [ 22 Mar 2015 03:41 GMT ]

Many praised Mr Fraser for his efforts to create a home in Australia for refugees and to fight for the rights of those suffering racial discrimination. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka: the suffering of war widows, in the midst of pain and social exclusion
[ Asia News ] [ 21 Mar 2015 02:05 GMT ]

If the disappeared people are with us no more, there should be an effective mechanism to strengthen the lives and livelihoods of those family members left behind. They need to return land to dispossessed families. Above all they need to release the political prisoners. [Full Story]

'Tortured' UK asylum seeker gets deportation reprieve
[ Channel4 ] [ 20 Mar 2015 01:55 GMT ]

A spokesman for the Home Office insisted that the UK has a "proud history" of granting asylum to those who need protection. [Full Story]

Tamil Diaspora Is Becoming Part Of Larger Sri Lankan Community
[ CT ] [ 19 Mar 2015 02:22 GMT ]

The Tamil Diaspora is a factor in Sri Lanka's life that cannot be ignored or marginalized. [Full Story]

International judicial mechanism needed to serve justice for all in Sri Lanka - Callum Macrae
[ Tamil Guardian ] [ 18 Mar 2015 01:05 GMT ]

Establish an international judicial mechanism in order to ensure justice is served to all communities, said the director. [Full Story]

Corporate report: Sri Lanka - Country of Concern
[ Foreign & Commonwealth Office UK ] [ 17 Mar 2015 02:17 GMT ]

The UK used its position in the HRC to urge the international community to establish an independent international investigation. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka's Tamil Minority Grows Impatient With Just Promises
[ The New York Times ] [ 16 Mar 2015 03:09 GMT ]

Tamil leaders worry that the military will refuse to release more detainees because their stories will provoke outrage. [Full Story]

In Jaffna 'to wipe tears' from those that suffered - Modi
[ Tamil Guardian ] [ 15 Mar 2015 02:44 GMT ]

"We need you as a guarantor of our rights," the chief minister said, addressing Prime Minister Modi. [Full Story]

Narendra Modi gives Sri Lanka the India example
[ The Indian Express ] [ 14 Mar 2015 05:47 GMT ]

When we accommodate the aspirations of all sections of our society, the nation gets the strength of every individual.' [Full Story]

Modi Bats for Federalism in Lankan Parliament
[ The New Indian Express ] [ 13 Mar 2015 15:16 GMT ]

"I believe in cooperative federalism," Modi told the 225 member House in a message of great significance to Sri Lankan leaders. [Full Story]

Modi's Lankan Visit Can be 'Transformational': Tamil Diaspora
[ The New Indian Express ] [ 12 Mar 2015 04:04 GMT ]

The devolution package contained in the 13th Amendment of the Lankan constitution is inadequate and requested Modi to bring about a permanent political solution 'jointly facilitated, mediated, and underwritten by India, EU, US, and the UN.' [Full Story]

Is Sri Lanka changing under President Sirisena?
[ Channel4 ] [ 11 Mar 2015 02:42 GMT ]

Mr Cameron said the Sri Lankan government had taken "encouraging steps" but added that he would call on President Sirisena to keep up the pace. [Full Story]

Travels with The Tamils: A Sri Lankan Warzone's Fragile Peace
[ Daily Beast ] [ 10 Mar 2015 03:05 GMT ]

In Jaffna, that history can't be avoided. The sad procession of demolished houses see to that. [Full Story]

This Divided Island: Stories from the Sri Lankan War review - a moving portrayal of the agonies of the conflict
[ The Guardian UK ] [ 09 Mar 2015 04:37 GMT ]

The country's Tamil population was herded into internment camps accompanied by widespread torture, rape and abuse. [Full Story]

Thanthi TV Exclusive with Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe
[ Thanthi TV ] [ 08 Mar 2015 01:16 GMT ]

Watch some Straight answers about issues concerned from the Newly elected Sri Lankan PM. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka's uneven road to reconciliation and harmony
[ The Australian ] [ 07 Mar 2015 00:07 GMT ]

The issue has highlighted a potential crisis for moderate Tamil politicians. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka's Unfinished Humanitarian Business
[ Refugees International ] [ 06 Mar 2015 02:28 GMT ]

First, the new administration must address the problem of internal displacement in Sri Lanka. [Full Story]

Historic Contribution of the Tamils for the Democratic Transition
[ SL Guardian ] [ 05 Mar 2015 04:49 GMT ]

Our struggle for truth and justice has a noble/sacred cause, namely freedom, dignity and equality of a people and their basic human rights as a Tamil nation with their traditional homeland. [Full Story]

Tamil Widows' Endless Wait in Sri Lanka
[ New Indian Express ] [ 04 Mar 2015 03:57 GMT ]

'My life is terrible without my husband, but I am determined to live for my children. [Full Story]

Top UN political official urges Sri Lanka to seize 'historic moment' for reconciliation
[ UN News Centre ] [ 03 Mar 2015 02:09 GMT ]

He underscored the country's need to develop 'a strong framework for accountability that meets international standards and norms and that is seen as credible across Sri Lanka.' [Full Story]

Next Version will Win Sinhala Voice for Tamils, says Macrae
[ The New Indian Express ] [ 02 Mar 2015 05:05 GMT ]

Macrae raises the question whether the change in government will really mark a step forward in the search for justice. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka: Press Ahead on Rights Reforms
[ Human Rights Watch ] [ 01 Mar 2015 02:31 GMT ]

Arbitrary Detention, Torture, Accountability Should Top Agenda. [Full Story]

Australia kept mum on Sri Lanka rights abuses in exchange for asylum deal - report
[ RT ] [ 28 Feb 2015 00:11 GMT ]

Rights groups argue that local Tamils, who have lived on the island since around the 2nd century BC, seek asylum to prevent torture, rape and other violence at the hands of the military. [Full Story]

With UN War Crimes Report Delay, Sri Lanka Must Deliver on Post-War Accountability
[ The Diplomat ] [ 27 Feb 2015 01:09 GMT ]

Hussein notes that the delay in the report will 'allow for a stronger and more comprehensive report.' [Full Story]

Letter: Sri Lanka Publication of UN Investigation into war crimes
[ TWG ] [ 26 Feb 2015 00:05 GMT ]

What is now in question is not only the integrity of the Human Rights Council but your own. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka: Tamil ex-stronghold Jaffna on the road to recovery
[ France24 ] [ 25 Feb 2015 01:54 GMT ]

They remained keenly aware of their minority status in a country where the government and the army are controlled by the Buddhist Sinhalese majority. [Full Story]

Australia silent on Sri Lanka rights abuses
[ Arab News ] [ 24 Feb 2015 02:19 GMT ]

Australia stayed silent about human rights abuses in Sri Lanka in exchange for its cooperation in cracking down on people-smuggling. [Full Story]

UN deferral must be used to make Sri Lanka war crimes report stronger
[ UCA News ] [ 23 Feb 2015 04:51 GMT ]

Politicians, journalists and civil society activists should take advantage of the less repressive environment to engage. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka: Promises of a new beginning - international cooperation is essential to ensure justice, accountability and an end to impunity
[ Amnesty International ] [ 22 Feb 2015 04:25 GMT ]

International expertise and technical assistance could help it to fulfil its reform agenda, particularly where truth seeking, reparation and justice are concerned. [Full Story]

2015 No Fire Zone Impact Distribution Project
[ KS ] [ 21 Feb 2015 12:21 GMT ]

Please support us with whatever you can afford. [Full Story]

Sri Lankan minister calls on poets to help unite a divided nation
[ The Guardian UK ] [ 21 Feb 2015 00:05 GMT ]

'The best way to have reconciliation is to meet the grievances that we have laid out explicitly and clearly and for which we are clamouring for 65 years,' [Full Story]

Sri Lanka - Restoring balance
[ The Economist ] [ 20 Feb 2015 03:08 GMT ]

Sri Lanka's treatment of ethnic Tamils in its north had troubled many in India, especially Tamils. [Full Story]

Movie Review: 'No Fire Zone: The Killing Fields of Sri Lanka'
[ EOL ] [ 19 Feb 2015 04:50 GMT ]

Macrae told the audience that the situation in Sri Lanka is not over and nowhere near a resolution. [Full Story]

Opening up? Sri Lanka's new government confronts legacy of war
[ IRIN ] [ 18 Feb 2015 02:48 GMT ]

'For victims, civil society in Sri Lanka, and the international community to trust the [new] government it will need to fully cooperate with the UN Office. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka's main Tamil party puts conditions to join unity govt
[ Global Times ] [ 17 Feb 2015 03:57 GMT ]

Only if the government can reach a solution to the Tamil issue, will we consider joining the proposed national government," [Full Story]

U.N. rights chief backs delay for Sri Lanka war crimes report
[ Reuters ] [ 16 Feb 2015 14:45 GMT ]

The United Nations estimated in 2011 that about 40,000 Tamil civilians were killed in the final weeks of the civil war, which ended in 2009. [Full Story]

After decades, Sri Lanka war widows demand justice
[ Asia News] [ 16 Feb 2015 02:29 GMT ]

The signatories call on Sri Lankan authorities to set up an independent investigation to find the truth about past human rights violations, discover the fate of the "forgotten" victims of the civil war. [Full Story]

'Delhi must push Colombo on devolution'
[ The Hindu ] [ 15 Feb 2015 03:07 GMT ]

There are similar constitutional arrangements in India, he said, adding that the countries needed to engage on the basis of an idea of shared sovereignty. [Full Story]

Sangam IV To Throw 10-day Treat for Tamil Lovers from February 13
[ The New Indian Express ] [ 14 Feb 2015 02:55 GMT ]

Today there is a need for Tamil renaissance that will lead to enlightened thinking which will have its impact among the Tamils across the world. [Full Story]

A time for healing
[ The Indian Express ] [ 13 Feb 2015 00:02 GMT ]

The new government has given indications that it will not be unresponsive to the concerns of the Tamils. [Full Story]

SPIN THE GLOBE, SRI LANKA: THE TWO FACES OF PARADISE
[ AFAR ] [ 12 Feb 2015 01:44 GMT ]

It's impossible to understand what it means to go north in Sri Lanka without a basic map of the fault lines that catalyzed the civil war. [Full Story]

Guns, war and a dove - Sri Lanka looks for a new life
[ Reuters ] [ 11 Feb 2015 02:22 GMT ]

The war, the book points out, was fuelled by a sense of fear among the Sinhalese of being captured by the Tamils one day. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka's Duty on War Crimes
[ The New York Times ] [ 10 Feb 2015 04:53 GMT ]

However noble its motives, the Sirisena government must deal with the legacy of the past. [Full Story]

Getting Real about Rights and Justice in Sri Lanka
[ The Huffington Post ] [ 09 Feb 2015 03:05 GMT ]

Pursuing strategies that downplay Sri Lanka's burning need for justice and accountability are misguided. [Full Story]

Largest Tamil Cultural Festival Sangam-4 Begins on Feb 13 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu
[ Sangam4 ] [ 08 Feb 2015 02:35 GMT ]

Sangam-4 is evolving as one of the major Tamil events spanning over ten days in TamilNadu capital Chennai. [Full Story PDF]

Singapore to host annual conference on Tamil language
[ Deccan Chronicle ] [ 07 Feb 2015 04:32 GMT ]

A three-day conference on Tamil language computing and Tamil internet will be held in Singapore by the end of May. [Full Story]

Time to Heal Tamil Wounds in Sri Lanka
[ The New Indian Express ] [ 06 Feb 2015 03:17 GMT ]

The ethnic divide occurred when the Tamils felt that their language, culture and identity would not survive. [Full Story]

Acts Of Betrayal That Broke The Letter & Spirit Of Independence
[ CT ] [ 05 Feb 2015 02:08 GMT ]

The rich heritage of the Tamils and proof of their origins had to be said to make it absolutely clear they were not minorities but were a Nation. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka's new president vows reconciliation
[ UCA News ] [ 04 Feb 2015 04:55 GMT ]

The Tamil National Alliance (TNA), attended the national day celebrations for the first time in decades. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka must address its past before it can move on
[ UCA News ] [ 03 Feb 2015 04:54 GMT ]

If the UN undertakes an inquiry, the ultimate agenda is only to facilitate peace. [Full Story]

16,000 SL refugee kids born in India stateless
[ The Times of India ] [ 02 Feb 2015 02:08 GMT ]

They do not have Sri Lankan citizenship and enjoy a mere refugee status. [Full Story]

Genocide occurs when 'warning signs' ignored - UN
[ Tamil Guardian ] [ 01 Feb 2015 01:01 GMT ]

The killing of thousands of Tamils in Sri Lanka at the end of the armed conflict in 2009, was the "failure of the international community". [Full Story]

Shock and Joy in Sri Lanka
[ The Huffington Post ] [ 31 Jan 2015 02:56 GMT ]

The biggest challenge will be reconciliation with the minorities and resolving the Tamil national issue. [Full Story]

A Chance for Justice in Sri Lanka?
[ The Huffington Post ] [ 30 Jan 2015 00:07 GMT ]

Accountability for atrocities committed in Sri Lanka can offer the country a chance to heal. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka: Rajapaksa Legacy of Abuse
[ Human Rights Watch ] [ 29 Jan 2015 04:55 GMT ]

The short-term gains of undermining core values of freedom and non-discrimination are rarely worth the long-term price. [Full Story]

No to Federal System Setback for Tamils
[ The New Indian Express ] [ 28 Jan 2015 03:41 GMT ]

The Tamil National Alliance has expressed its willingness to negotiate a political settlement,” he said. [Full Story]

Canadian Tamil Congress 8th Annual Thai Pongal Dinner
[ CTC ] [ 27 Jan 2015 00:05 GMT ]

The Tamil calendar month of thai, or January, is heralded as the coming of new beginnings. [Video]

USTPAC Urges President Obama to Continue Leadership on Accountability in Sri Lanka
[ PR Newswire ] [ 26 Jan 2015 00:12 GMT ]

US and India must lead mediating power sharing for durable solution to the ethnic conflict. [Full Story]

Consolidating post-election gains in Sri Lanka
[ The Hindu ] [ 25 Jan 2015 03:41 GMT ]

Tamils in the north are saying that they have heard it before and will believe it only when implemented. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka's new government and the possibility of justice
[ Tamil Guardian ] [ 24 Jan 2015 00:02 GMT ]

“The scars from the conflict are still raw, and any attempt by the new government to unreasonably bury the past would not be acceptable. [Full Story]

IMPLEMENTING THE THIRTEENTH AMENDMENT: THE FIRST STEP OF A LONG JOURNEY
[ GV ] [ 23 Jan 2015 04:47 GMT ]

The wise thing to do is not scoff and boycott, but to engage and consolidate small gains step by step. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka’s ‘rainbow revolution’
[ The Hindu ] [ 22 Jan 2015 05:01 GMT ]

Our vision for Sri Lanka is one of post-war unity, and this means appealing to the hearts and minds of our fellow citizens in the North and East. [Full Story]

TN parties hail Sri Lanka's announcement on 13th Amendment
[ Zee News ] [ 21 Jan 2015 04:44 GMT ]

DMK and several other parties in Tamil Nadu Wednesday welcomed the announcement. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka and the rest of the world - Beyond the rainbow revolution
[ The Economist ] [ 20 Jan 2015 00:15 GMT ]

Its long civil war, which only ended in 2009, drew scrutiny from distant powers, notably from North America and Europe, which are home to large Tamil diaspora. [Full Story]

On train to once-forbidden Jaffna, a wipe, a swipe & the hope of a soldier scarred by war
[ The Telegraph India ] [ 19 Jan 2015 02:01 GMT ]

"I have hope," she said. [Full Story]

Pope in Sri Lanka: “Mary forgave her son’s killers at the foot of his cross…”
[ CNS ] [ 18 Jan 2015 02:05 GMT ]

She wants to guide Sri Lankans to greater reconciliation, so that the balm of God’s pardon and mercy may bring true healing to all.” [Full Story]

New Crossroad?
[ Tamil Guardian ] [ 17 Jan 2015 03:55 GMT ]

The return of normalcy to the Tamil areas and a political solution to the Tamil question, will be determined entirely by international pressure. [Full Story]

A New Era in Sri Lanka’s Politics?
[ IDSA ] [ 16 Jan 2015 02:27 GMT ]

The unfettering of democracy would work to the advantage of all the stakeholders with an interest in fostering a multi-ethnic and plural polity and maintaining democratic stability. [Full Story]

Can the ‘unknown angel’ deliver?
[ The Hindu ] [ 15 Jan 2015 04:48 GMT ]

The international community will and should continue to pressure for accountability for the unspeakable atrocities during the war: brutal murders, rapes and killing of innocent civilians. [Full Story]

The civil war that 'tore open heart' of Sri Lanka - Pope
[ Channel 4 ] [ 14 Jan 2015 08:55 GMT ]

Pope Francis visits a former war zone in northern Sri Lanka, preaching forgiveness. [Full Story]

Pope Francis lands in Sri Lanka, urges investigation into Tamil war
[ Christian Today ] [ 13 Jan 2015 03:49 GMT ]

"The process of healing also needs to include the pursuit of truth, not for the sake of opening old wounds, but rather as a necessary means of promoting justice, healing and unity," he said. [Full Story]

For Sri Lanka, Pope's visit solidifies peace after brutal civil war
[ CNA ] [ 12 Jan 2015 01:23 GMT ]

Pope Francis has always been a person who represents peace and reconciliation. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka to probe alleged coup attempt by ex-president Rajapaksa
[ The Times of India ] [ 11 Jan 2015 17:55 GMT ]

Rajapaksa had made an attempt to deploy the army and police to stop the counting of votes when initial results showed he was heading for defeat. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka’s new president promises ‘no more abductions, no more censorship’
[ The Guardian UK ] [ 11 Jan 2015 03:25 GMT ]

An adamant refusal to act on reconciliation with the Tamil minority and growing sectarian violence denied Rajapaksa votes among other constituencies. [Full Story]

Tamils booted out Rajapaksa in Sri Lanka
[ Economy Lead ] [ 10 Jan 2015 15:41 GMT ]

The outcome of the presidential election can only reinforce the ethnic differences that still plague Sri Lanka. [Full Story]

Inside Story - New era for Sri Lanka?
[ Aljazeera ] [ 10 Jan 2015 00:58 GMT ]

But does this mark the beginning of a new political era for Sri Lanka? Or is the new man too closely associated with the old guard? [Full Story]

Sri Lanka's new president - An unknown angel
[ The Economist ] [ 09 Jan 2015 10:01 GMT ]

The victory of Mr Sirisena is also one for democracy. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka: Test for triumphalism
[ Financial Times UK ] [ 08 Jan 2015 03:34 GMT ]

Tamil parties talk of a post-election civil disobedience campaign. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka's election could change everything... and nothing
[ Channel4 ] [ 07 Jan 2015 15:15 GMT ]

Some observers fear that the demise of his regime could also take the pressure off in the international campaign for truth, justice and accountability over the crimes at the end of the war. [Full Story]

Hope and fear battle for supremacy in Sri Lanka’s presidential election campaign
[ International Crisis Group ] [ 07 Jan 2015 04:58 GMT ]

Whoever wins will face the challenge of mending a polity in urgent need of being brought together. This is true not just of Colombo’s politics but also with respect to the many legitimate demands of Sri Lanka’s beleaguered Tamil community that remain to be addressed. [Full Story]

Postwar Sri Lanka’s Awkward Peace
[ The New York Times ] [ 06 Jan 2015 02:55 GMT ]

Thousands of civilians had died there, trapped between the government and the rebels during the last, flattening assaults of the war, but there is no memorial for them. [Full Story]

Tamils Caught Between The Devil & The Deep Sea
[ SG ] [ 05 Jan 2015 09:59 GMT ]

The Sinhala polity has never treated the Tamils as equals and they need a permanent solution to their post colonial problems. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka’s Violent Buddhists
[ The New York Times ] [ 04 Jan 2015 00:25 GMT ]

If it continues unchecked, Sri Lanka will face more instability, ethnic polarization and suppression of dissent. [Full Story]

Diaspora split on the Tamil vote
[ CG ] [ 03 Jan 2015 01:11 GMT ]

Changing the nature of the state, not just a change in government, is the viable path to genuine democracy and permanent peace in the island. [Full Story]

Last days of the Raj?
[ The Economist ] [ 02 Jan 2015 02:25 GMT ]

Electing Mr Sirisena may also be the only way of saving Sri Lankan democracy. [Full Story]

Statement by TNA on upcoming Presidential election
[ TNA ] [ 01 Jan 2015 00:01 GMT ]

The experience of our people has been that the struggle for democracy over dictatorship is inextricably linked to the pursuit of our most cherished values: equality, justice, dignity and freedom. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka’s Electoral Dysfunction
[ Foreign Policy ] [ 31 Dec 2014 00:05 GMT ]

The island nation’s upcoming election could be a choice between two oppressors. [Full Story]

2004 Indian Ocean tsunami: how Aceh recovered, and Sri Lanka declined
[ The Guardian UK ] [ 30 Dec 2014 00:03 GMT ]

In one, these pressures highlighted differences, drove opposing sides apart and ultimately led to a further human catastrophe; in the other it pushed opposing sides to seek compromise. [Full Story]

China,Sri Lanka to expand investment through 21st Century Maritime Silk Road initiative
[ Global Post ] [ 29 Dec 2014 01:11 GMT ]

China,Sri Lanka to expand investment through 21st Century Maritime Silk Road initiative. [Full Story]

The heart of Jaffna Tamil community
[ The Star ] [ 28 Dec 2014 00:25 GMT ]

“They sweated blood to build these establishments to preserve their culture and heritage,” [Full Story]

Sri Lanka think tank calls for a genuine truth seeking mechanism
[ The Economic Times ] [ 27 Dec 2014 02:28 GMT ]

The Commission while holding public sittings in the former conflict zones have received nearly 20,000 complaints of missing persons. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka, the tsunami and the evolution of disaster response
[ IRIN ] [ 26 Dec 2014 04:59 GMT ]

Within a year of the tsunami, the government and LTTE camps had polarized further, which had a direct impact on how aid was allowed to be distributed. [Full Story]

Economy, tolerance and reconciliation on minds of Sri Lankan voters
[ KSA ] [ 25 Dec 2014 02:27 GMT ]

"The Tamil community has yet to receive what was promised to them," [Full Story]

SRI LANKA’S PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION AND PREDICAMENT OF TAMIL PARTY – ANALYSIS
[ Eurasia Review ] [ 24 Dec 2014 01:58 GMT ]

Sirisena cannot win without substantial Tamil votes. [Full Story]

Will Tamils see any justice from UNHRC in March?
[ PressTV ] [ 23 Dec 2014 02:25 GMT ]

This conflict of war crimes, needs to be viewed for what it is, an attempt by Sri Lanka's top political leaders to eradicate a race of people. [Full Story]

Breaking the Silence Journal: Kings College London
[ Tamil Guardian ] [ 22 Dec 2014 03:41 GMT ]

Kings College London held its annual 'Breaking the Silence' exhibition on the November 20, to raise awareness among fellow students. [Full Story]

Tamil Catholics call for end to 'untouchable' discrimination
[ UCANews ] [ 21 Dec 2014 01:55 GMT ]

A group of Tamil Catholics belonging to several dalit organizations and a Tamil political party called for Vatican intervention. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka think tank calls for a genuine truth seeking mechanism
[ The Economics Times ] [ 20 Dec 2014 02:14 GMT ]

The Commission, operating under the Commissions of Inquiry apparatus, is structurally flawed, given its dependence on the Executive for appointments, financing and follow up action. [Full Story]

How Caste Plays a Role in India’s Biggest Classical Music Festival
[ The Wall Street Journal ] [ 19 Dec 2014 05:07 GMT ]

One of the world’s biggest – and longest – festivals of classical music and dance begins in Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu state. [Full Story]

SRI LANKA: THE FUTURE IS NOW: A HUMAN RIGHTS AGENDA FOR SRI LANKA’S PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATES
[ Amnesty international ] [ 18 Dec 2014 04:28 GMT ]

Victims of crimes under international law have not received truth, justice and reparation. [Full Story]

Sri Lankan election – ‘The tighter the race, the more violent it threatens to be’
[ International Crisis Group ] [ 17 Dec 2014 03:57 GMT ]

Tamils have suffered heavily from Sri Lanka’s excessive concentration of power and lack of independent checks on executive power, and they would benefit from the democratic reforms the opposition is proposing. [Full Story]

A Chance to Close Sri Lanka’s One-Family Show
[ The Wall Street Journal ] [ 16 Dec 2014 00:02 GMT ]

The military presence remains oppressive, especially in the north. [Full Story]

Tamil man returns home after 25 years in detention
[ Tamil Guardian ] [ 15 Dec 2014 01:54 GMT ]

Following his arrest, Vairavanathan was held in a detention camp in Hambantota for 25 years without being charged. [Full Story]

Book review: Sri Lanka's Secrets
[ Brisbane Times ] [ 14 Dec 2014 03:38 GMT ]

Initial discrimination in work and educational environments, following independence from the British in 1948, eventually led to state-sanctioned persecution culminating in violent attacks against Tamils. [Full Story]

THE CENTRALITY OF ECONOMICS IN SRI LANKA – ANALYSIS
[ Eurasia Review ] [ 13 Dec 2014 01:50 GMT ]

There is absolutely no trust between the central government and the Tamil community. [Full Story]

Vaiko Calls on EU, Bats for Referendum in Lanka
[ Outlook India ] [ 12 Dec 2014 02:07 GMT ]

"The help and contribution of European Union countries in holding a referendum on the Tamils issue in Sri Lanka is very essential," [Full Story]

Sri Lanka: Release or Charge Human Rights Activist Balendran Jeyakumary
[ Amnesty International ] [ 11 Dec 2014 03:26 GMT ]

A prominent Sri Lankan human rights activist, has been detained since March 13, 2014 under the Prevention of Terrorism Act. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka’s Presidential Election: Risks and Opportunities
[ International Crisis Group ] [ 10 Dec 2014 02:18 GMT ]

“Whoever wins in January, issues of devolution of power, accountability and reconciliation, and of the equal status of Tamils and Muslims in a Sinhala majority state, will remain contentious” [Full Story]

Vaiko exit from NDA shows BJP's cultural nationalism a dud in Tamil Nadu
[ First Post ] [ 09 Dec 2014 04:55 GMT ]

If the BJP doesn’t devise a unique strategy, that is distinctively different from its policy on Gita, Sanskrit and Sri Lanka, its revival in Tamil Nadu is likely to be a non-starter. [Full Story]

Sizing up the Sri Lankan strife
[ The Express Tribune ] [ 08 Dec 2014 00:01 GMT ]

The face of Sri Lanka, with all its natural beauty and jovial people, seems like the face of Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa – half-smiling, half-troubled. [Full Story]

Tamil issues remain unaddressed in Lanka election: TNA
[ Business Standard ] [ 07 Dec 2014 04:33 GMT ]

"Tamils are facing various issues. There are hundreds of people who still can't go back to their own lands because Army is occupying them". [Full Story]

S African Tamils Slap War Crime Charges Against Lankan General
[ Outlook ] [ 06 Dec 2014 02:02 GMT ]

We are surprised at the ease of allowing a war criminal into the country," the statement said. [Full Story]

Sri Lanka’s Next Step
[ The Wall Street Journal ] [ 05 Dec 2014 04:52 GMT ]

Sri Lanka has yet to heal from a civil war that cost more than 80,000 lives. [Full Story]

Appeal from a Sri Lankan Catholic to Pope Francis: 'Please don’t come'
[ UCANews ] [ 04 Dec 2014 01:41 GMT ]

Sri Lanka is a country where even a Catholic priest can disappear for writing a letter to the pope. [Full Story]

Rights of minorities’ in South Asia
[ TC ] [ 03 Dec 2014 04:35 GMT ]

Sri Lankan population consists of 72% of Sinhalese, 12%-13% of Tamils, 8% of Muslims and Indian Tamils for plantations around 7%. [Full Story]

A legacy for generations
[ Tamil Guardian ] [ 02 Dec 2014 03:57 GMT ]

The Tamil homeland remains under military occupation, Tamils continue to face the threat of rape, disappearance, torture and death by the state and the Tamil nation lacks any meaningful autonomy. [Full Story]

U of T prof was admired for compassion, academic contributions
[ Toronto Star ] [ 01 Dec 2014 02:14 GMT ]

Chelva Kanaganayakam, a Tamil Canadian who taught English at the University of Toronto, leaves a legacy of ‘life-changing’ courses and important contributions to Tamil poetry translation. [Full Story]

UN HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL: FORUM ON MINORITY ISSUES
[ Amnesty International ] [ 30 Nov 2014 01:35 GMT ]

The United Nations, including the Human Rights Council, must be attentive to this risk and be prepared to assert its authority to prevent further violence and to respond robustly to violence if it occurs. [Full Story]

A fault in his stars?
[ The Economist ] [ 29 Nov 2014 00:47 GMT ]

Mahinda Rajapaksa expected a coronation. Instead he faces a tricky election. [Full Story]

British lawmakers urge EU to stop Sri Lanka trade perks if UN probe not given access
[ Reuters ] [ 28 Nov 2014 02:29 GMT ]

The United Nations has estimated about 40,000 civilians were killed in the final weeks of the 26-year conflict. [Full Story]

Claims that sri lanka tourism covers for military takeover
[ TM ] [ 27 Nov 2014 03:11 GMT ]

Tourism to Sri Lanka is being used as cover for the military's takeover of civilian life in Sri Lanka. [Full Story]

Pope Francis hits out at 'bureaucratic' Europe
[ BBC ] [ 26 Nov 2014 02:45 GMT ]

He praised the EU for its commitment to human rights. [Full Story]

SAARC URGED TO DEPLOY HUMAN RIGHTS MONITORS TO PROTECT UN WAR CRIMES WITNESSES IN SRI LANKA
[ EINNews ] [ 25 Nov 2014 04:38 GMT ]

In short, the Tamil’s very right to life, and their right to existence, are in danger. [Full Story]

A rough journey for refugees in Malaysia
[ Al Jazeera ] [ 24 Nov 2014 03:09 GMT ]

Refugees are not allowed to attend Malaysian schools - practical advice, and emotional support. [Full Story]

In Sri Lanka, a priest who protected thousands
[ UCANews ] [ 23 Nov 2014 02:55 GMT ]

Key defender of human rights lauded for work during civil war. [Full Story]