Today is August 30, the International Day of the Disappeared, observed by Amnesty International and other human rights groups to remember victims of “enforced disappearance” around the world and to press for justice for them and their families. An “enforced disappearance” occurs when agents of the state detain someone and the state then denies any knowledge of the person’s status or whereabouts. Over the past several decades, Sri Lanka has experienced tens of thousands of enforced disappearances, the vast majority of which remain unresolved. One recent example is that of the journalist Prageeth Eknaligoda, who went missing shortly after leaving work on Jan. 24. Please write the Sri Lankan government and ask them to conduct an effective investigation into Mr. Eknaligoda’s disappearance and make the results public. Please also work to get the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance adopted. Thanks.
Don't Forget the Disappeared in Sri Lanka
August 30, 2010