Amnesty flags ‘entrenched impunity’ 17 years after war’s end

Wednesday, 20 May 2026 05:55 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Amnesty International warned that Sri Lanka’s continued failure to conduct credible investigations into alleged wartime abuses was undermining reconciliation and durable peace, as the country marked 17 years since the end of the armed conflict.

In a statement issued to mark the anniversary, the rights organisation said there remained an “urgent need” for truth, justice and reparations relating to alleged violations of international human rights and humanitarian law committed during the conflict, citing findings documented through United Nations investigations.

Amnesty said repeated commitments by successive Governments, including the current administration, had yet to translate into meaningful accountability, adding that “entrenched impunity” continued to deny redress to survivors and affected families.

The organisation said accountability remained essential both for reconciliation and for Sri Lanka to meet its obligations under international law.

Thousands of Tamil civilians, survivors and relatives of victims gathered at Mullivaikkal yesterday to commemorate those who lost their lives during the final stages of the war.

According to Amnesty, community representatives reiterated that meaningful engagement with the Government depended on addressing longstanding grievances and ensuring accountability for alleged past abuses.

“We stand in solidarity with their pursuit of justice,” Amnesty International South Asia said.