The Tamil families of the disappeared in Sri Lanka have been actively urging the United Nations Human Rights Chief to visit Mullivaikkal
The Tamil families of the disappeared in Sri Lanka have been actively urging the United Nations Human Rights Chief to visit Mullivaikkal, a site that holds significant historical and emotional weight in the context of the Sri Lankan civil war. Mullivaikkal was the last area where a large number of Tamil civilians were reportedly killed during the final stages of the war in 2009, and many families lost loved ones whose fates remain unknown.
The appeals to the UN Human Rights Chief are driven by several key concerns:
1. **Accountability and Justice**: Families are seeking recognition of their plight and accountability for the disappearances. They hope that a visit from the UN official would highlight their struggles and push for investigations into wartime atrocities.
2. **International Attention**: Having a prominent figure from the UN visit Mullivaikkal could draw international attention to the ongoing issues faced by the Tamil community, including demands for justice and reconciliation.
3. **Support for Victims’ Rights**: The families advocate for support from international bodies to ensure that their rights are upheld and that they receive the necessary assistance in their quest for truth and justice regarding their missing relatives.
4. **Human Rights Dialogue**: A visit could facilitate dialogue on human rights issues in Sri Lanka, potentially leading to more significant international scrutiny and pressure on the Sri Lankan government to address these concerns.
5. **Memorialisation and Recognition**: The families seek acknowledgment of their losses and the need for memorialisation of victims, which is crucial for healing and reconciliation within the community.
The situation in Mullivaikkal and the broader Tamil community remains a sensitive and complex issue, intertwined with the history of the civil conflict and ongoing discussions about human rights and reconciliation in Sri Lanka. The families continue to advocate for recognition and justice, emphasising the importance of international support in their ongoing struggle.
