The UK government has imposed sanctions on four individuals accused of committing serious human rights violations during the Sri Lankan civil war, including extrajudicial killings, torture, and sexual violence.
The sanctions, announced today by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), include travel bans and asset freezes targeting former high-ranking Sri Lankan military officials and a former commander of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). The measures aim to hold those responsible accountable and prevent a culture of impunity.
Among those sanctioned are:
- Shavendra Silva – Former Head of the Sri Lankan Armed Forces
- Wasantha Karannagoda – Former Navy Commander
- Jagath Jayasuriya – Former Commander of the Sri Lankan Army
- Vinayagamoorthy Muralitharan (Karuna Amman) – Former LTTE commander and leader of the paramilitary Karuna Group, which operated alongside the Sri Lankan military
UK’s Commitment to Human Rights
Foreign Secretary David Lammy reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to justice for victims of the conflict, stating:
“The UK government is committed to human rights in Sri Lanka, including seeking accountability for human rights violations and abuses which took place during the civil war, and which continue to have an impact on communities today.”
He added that the UK looks forward to working with the new Sri Lankan government on improving human rights and welcomed their commitments to national unity.
Minister for the Indo-Pacific Catherine West also emphasized the importance of accountability during her recent visit to Sri Lanka, where she met with key political leaders and civil society organizations.
International Support for Accountability
The UK has played a leading role in pushing for accountability in Sri Lanka, working alongside international partners such as Canada, Malawi, Montenegro, and North Macedonia through the UN Human Rights Council’s Core Group on Sri Lanka.
Beyond human rights, the UK has supported Sri Lanka’s economic reforms, contributing to debt restructuring efforts through the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and providing technical assistance to Sri Lanka’s Inland Revenue Department.
