Tamils protested outside the UNHRC in Geneva, calling for justice for their genocide and the liberation of Tamil Eelam. The demonstration coincided with Sri Lanka’s review of human rights issues, with activists highlighting ongoing violations and the government’s failure to address accountability. They urged international accountability to counter decades-long impunity against Tamils.
On Monday, hundreds of Tamil activists, youth, and members of the diaspora convened outside the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in Geneva. They called for international justice regarding the Tamil genocide and urged for the liberation of Tamil Eelam. This demonstration was organized to coincide with the review of Sri Lanka’s human rights record during the UNHRC’s 58th session.
The protest, spearheaded by Tamil organizations across Europe, aimed to draw attention to the ongoing human rights violations in Sri Lanka and the longstanding failure of its governments to deliver justice for war crimes against Tamils. The Swiss Tamil Coordination Committee and the Swiss Tamil Youth Organisation presented a memorandum to the UN Human Rights Committee, outlining continuing violations such as land grabs and enforced disappearances faced by Tamils.
At the event, Tamil activist Mr. Raghuram lit a general torch and hoisted the Tamil Eelam flag, symbolizing the struggle for Tamil self-determination. Protesters displayed banners and chanted slogans, and speeches were delivered in several languages, emphasizing the systematic oppression of Tamils and the necessity for international solidarity in their quest for justice.
Members of the Tamil Youth Organisation (TYO) from various regions in Europe pledged their commitment to the Tamil cause on stage. Concurrently, the UN Human Rights Council examined Sri Lanka’s human rights concerns, with international experts criticizing the government’s persistent refusal to address issues surrounding accountability and impunity.
Despite claims from Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake of a new political direction, there have been ongoing reports of military presence in Tamil homelands, continued refusal of international accountability, and the harassment of Tamil activists, highlighting the need for sustained global pressure on the Sri Lankan government.
The protest at the UNHRC in Geneva highlighted the ongoing struggle of Tamils for justice and accountability amidst significant human rights concerns in Sri Lanka. Activists called for international intervention and emphasized the significance of global solidarity in addressing these issues. With continued reports of oppression, the need for sustained diplomatic pressure on the Sri Lankan government remains critical.
Original Source: www.tamilguardian.com
