Press Release

The Law and Society Trust was among 16 organisation that developed a code of conduct for Responsible Social Media use in Sri Lanka, that has now been published as the Social Media Declaration Colombo 2019. The Declaration recognises the inviolable importance of the freedom of expression on or over social media, yet at the same time, encourage and strengthen the ethical, progressive, democratic and pro-social use of social media. LST is also a signatory of the Declaration. ‘Social media’ is under increasing scrutiny within the present Sri Lankan context. The resulting discourse on Freedom of Speech and Human Rights shows a lack of understanding of the complex nature of social media, or of the nuanced ideals of democracy or Freedom of Expression, especially by those in decision-making positions. The signatories of the Declaration believe that through the measures outlined, it would be possible to “create a progressive environment on the Sri Lankan social media sphere, to ensure beneficial experiences, devoid of harassment for all users.” Read the Declaration online here: www.socialmedialanka.org

The Law and Society Trust is deeply concerned with the current developments in Sri Lanka and we urge the President to resolve this impasse by speedily re-convening Parliament and enabling Parliament to determine which member of Parliament has the support to lead the government.The Law and Society Trust is deeply concerned with the current developments in Sri Lanka and we urge the President to resolve this impasse by speedily re-convening Parliament and enabling Parliament to determine which member of Parliament has the support to lead the government. The constitutional process for appointing the Prime Minister and outlining the parameters of the President’s powers were established through the 19th Amendment and it should be followed. There is also a history of democratic agitation that led to enacting of the 19th Amendment. Disregarding it so summarily is a threat to the democratic process. Ordinary citizens are cynical of the delays in re-convening Parliament. They express sentiments publicly that it gives the members the opportunity to barter their votes to the highest bidder. This is not healthy for Sri Lanka’s democracy. The Law and Society Trust was established in 1982 and is witness to the highs and lows of Sri Lanka’s political developments. We advocate respecting peoples right to political participation and their right to select their representatives through a free and fair process.