State Department must advocate for self-determination of Eelam Tamils – US Congress members

by Sharmini
Mar 30, 2024

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has been urged to “leverage US leadership within the United Nations” and advocate for the rights of the Eelam Tamils to self-determination, by a group of ten members of congress this week.

“We write to bring to your attention the ongoing and unresolved plight of the Eelam Tamils in Sri Lanka,” said the letter to Secretary Blinken.

 

 

“Current land appropriations in traditional Tamil areas are further eroding the Tamil homeland, which remains a non-self-governing territory. The government’s use of the draconian Prevention of Terrorism Act against political critics, dissidents, and human rights defenders continues to violate the rights of Sri Lankans, including Tamils.”

“Holding perpetrators accountable and enabling the Tamil population to democratically determine their future in line with the United Nations Charter and U.S. principles is essential for reconciliation and progress in Sri Lanka,” the letter continued.

“The U.S. must seek a solution to this lingering issue. In line with our support for self-determination in Ukraine, Kosovo, East Timor, South Sudan, etc., it is imperative that we consistently apply our principles worldwide.”

It concluded by calling on Blinken and the US State Department to;

1. Advocate for the rights of the Eelam Tamils to self-determination and back a universally accepted democratic process of referendum to resolve the issue based on their rights as per international laws.

2. Support comprehensive international investigations and accountability for war crimes and human rights abuses against civilians during the war, following recommendations from the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights. Such an investigation could include
an examination of whether genocide was committed.

3. Leverage U.S. leadership within the United Nations—including the General Assembly, Security Council, and Human Rights Council—to promote independent judicial proceedings and potentially refer allegations to the International Criminal Court for prosecution.

Read the full letter and see all the signatories here.

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