What are some key human rights issues that emerged during the Sri Lankan civil war?
During the Sri Lankan civil war, which lasted from 1983 to 2009, several key human rights issues emerged:
1. **Extrajudicial Killings**: Reports of killings by both government forces and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) were widespread, with civilians often caught in the crossfire.
2. **Displacement**: Millions of people were displaced due to the conflict, resulting in a significant refugee crisis both within Sri Lanka and in neighbouring countries.
3. **War Crimes and Atrocities**: Both sides were accused of committing war crimes, including attacks on civilian populations, use of child soldiers, and torture.
4. **Freedom of Expression**: Journalists and activists faced harassment, censorship, and violence, particularly those critical of the government or shedding light on human rights violations.
5. **Enforced Disappearances**: Many individuals, including activists and suspected LTTE members, went missing during the conflict, leading to longstanding anguish for their families.
6. **Gender-Based Violence**: Women and girls faced increased risks of sexual violence, especially in conflict zones, with inadequate support systems for survivors.
7. **Lack of Accountability**: Post-war, there have been ongoing concerns regarding the lack of accountability for human rights violations, with calls for investigations and justice often unmet.
These issues continue to impact the human rights landscape in Sri Lanka even after the war’s conclusion.
