A torture that never stops: Sri Lanka failing survivors of conflict sexual violence, UN says

A torture that never stops: Sri Lanka failing survivors of conflict sexual violence, UN says

**Sri Lanka’s Lingering Scars: UN Report Highlights Unaddressed Sexual Violence Against Conflict Survivors**

More than a decade and a half after the cessation of its civil war, Sri Lanka continues to grapple with the enduring legacy of conflict-related sexual violence, a new report from the United Nations Human Rights Office (OHCHR) reveals. The report, released Tuesday, paints a stark picture of survivors denied justice, recognition, and reparations, highlighting a persistent failure to address the profound trauma inflicted during the conflict.

The civil war, which spanned from 1983 to 2009, witnessed widespread human rights abuses, including allegations of systematic sexual violence perpetrated by various actors. While the end of hostilities brought a semblance of peace, the report underscores that the wounds of the past remain unhealed for countless victims. These individuals, predominantly women and girls, continue to suffer the physical, psychological, and social consequences of these heinous acts.

The OHCHR report details a troubling pattern of impunity, with perpetrators rarely held accountable for their crimes. This lack of accountability not only denies justice to survivors but also perpetuates a culture of silence and fear, discouraging victims from coming forward. The report points to systemic challenges within the Sri Lankan justice system, including a lack of specialized training for law enforcement and judicial personnel on handling cases of sexual violence, as well as persistent societal stigma surrounding such crimes.

Furthermore, the report criticizes the limited access to comprehensive support services for survivors. Many victims lack access to adequate medical care, psychosocial support, and legal assistance, hindering their ability to rebuild their lives. The absence of effective reparations programs, including financial compensation and symbolic measures of redress, further compounds their suffering.

The UN report calls on the Sri Lankan government to take immediate and concrete steps to address the issue of conflict-related sexual violence. Key recommendations include establishing a robust and independent mechanism for investigating and prosecuting perpetrators, strengthening the capacity of the justice system to handle such cases, and ensuring access to comprehensive support services for survivors. The report also emphasizes the importance of addressing the root causes of sexual violence, including gender inequality and discrimination.

The findings of the OHCHR report serve as a stark reminder of the long-lasting impact of conflict on individuals and communities. The failure to address conflict-related sexual violence not only undermines the rule of law but also perpetuates a cycle of trauma and injustice. For Sri Lanka to truly heal and move forward, it must confront the past and ensure that survivors of these horrific crimes receive the justice, recognition, and support they deserve. The international community also has a crucial role to play in supporting Sri Lanka’s efforts to address this issue and promote accountability. Only through a concerted and sustained effort can Sri Lanka break the cycle of impunity and provide a measure of solace to those who have suffered so much.

This article was created based on information from various sources and rewritten for clarity and originality.