The Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka (HRCSL) commemorated International Human Rights Day 2022 on the 12^th of December 2022, at Lakshman Kadirgamar Institute of International Relations and Strategic Studies, Colombo 7 under the theme of “I have a Voice – Dignity, Freedom and Justice for all”. The event focused on challenges faced by vulnerable or marginalized groups within the Human rights context. Approximately 120 participants from government institutions and civil societies participated in this event. Honourable Chief Justice (Retired) of the Supreme Court of Sri Lanka, Justice Asoka De Silva was invited as the Chief Guest of this Occasion.

Justice L.T.B. Dehideniya, the newly appointed Chairman of the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka assumed office on 4th July 2023 at HRCSL Head Office at No 14, R. A. De Mel Mawatha, Colombo 04. He met with the senior officials of the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka and exchanged views over a friendly discussion.

Freedom from torture is an absolute right of all human beings which cannot be restricted under any circumstances. Nonetheless, the heinous act of torture both physical and mental is widespread in Sri Lanka and worldwide. The consequences of this blatant human rights violation is not just faced by the victims of torture but also their families, friends, and witnesses. Thus, on this International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka adds special emphasis on the need to provide all forms of support to victims, their families, and witnesses without discrimination.

The Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka, through its inquiries and investigative mechanisms, takes all measures within its capacity to provide redress and reparation to the victims of torture. However, the support required by victims and their families extends beyond reparations to receiving the fullest rehabilitation through specialised programmes which include the provision of continued psychological support until full recovery is attained.