In March 2014, the United Nations Human Rights Council (HRC) adopted resolution A/HRC/25/1, marking a significant step toward international accountability. The resolution mandated the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) to conduct a comprehensive investigation into serious violations and abuses of human rights in Sri Lanka. This resulted in the establishment of the OHCHR Investigation on Sri Lanka (OISL).

Mandate and Scope

The OISL was tasked with identifying the facts and circumstances surrounding alleged crimes perpetrated by both governmental forces and non-state armed groups.

Timeframe: The primary focus spans from February 21, 2002, to November 15, 2011—the period originally covered by Sri Lanka’s Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation Commission (LLRC).

Legal Framework: The investigation operates under international human rights law, international humanitarian law (specifically provisions relevant to non-international armed conflict), and international criminal law.

Methods and Standards

To ensure the integrity of its findings, the OISL employs a rigorous methodology:

Evidence Collection: The team utilizes desk reviews of existing documentation, victim and witness testimonies, satellite imagery, and authenticated multimedia evidence.

Standard of Proof: Following the practice of other UN fact-finding bodies, the OISL uses the "reasonable grounds to believe" standard. This standard is sufficient to recommend further judicial investigations into international crimes.

Protection & Confidentiality: Strict protocols are in place for witness protection and the archiving of confidential material to ensure the safety of those who provide information.

Expert Guidance

The investigation was supported by three distinguished international experts: Mr. Martti Ahtisaari (Finland), Ms. Silvia Cartwright (New Zealand), and Ms. Asma Jahangir (Pakistan). Their role was to provide independent verification and advisory support throughout the process, ensuring the investigation met the highest principles of independence and objectivity.