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<p>We welcomed the early commitments by President Sirisena, and his new government,
to make progress on human rights concerns in Sri Lanka. Since then there have been
a number of positive steps taken, including the adoption of the 19th amendment to
the constitution that restores the independence of key institutions; removal of restrictions
on freedom of expression, with exiled journalists invited to return to the country
and a number of banned websites unblocked; and, more democratic space with travel
bans on foreign nationals visiting the North lifted and the Non-Governmental Organisations
Secretariat moved from the Ministry of Defence to the Ministry of Policy Planning
and Economic Affairs.</p><p>Challenges however remain, particularly over high military
levels in the North and their involvement in civilian life and land occupation.</p><p>
</p><p>The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights will make an assessment of progress
at the September UN Human Rights Council.</p><p> </p>
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