Chair’s note

On August 1, 2013, I visited the Buddhist monk Ven. Theripaha Siridhamma Thero, who was

on an indefinite hunger strike protesting the Rathupaswela water pollution, allegedly caused

by the Venigros dipped product factory. Despite my efforts to convince the monk that legal

actions and other solutions could address the issue, he insisted that such measures would

not bring justice to his community. Shortly after leaving with the CEJ team, I heard on the

radio that police had opened fire on a connected protest in nearby Weliveriya town.

Tragically, I later learned that three innocent youths had died and 50 others were wounded

in the incident. I firmly believe that those villagers have the right to protest and convey their

dissatisfaction to the authorities. Yet, the government and security forces do not have the

right to use weapons against innocent protestors.

Across the world, such environmental human rights defenders face significant risks. In Sri

Lanka, these defenders play a crucial role in safeguarding the country's rich biodiversity and

natural resources. This diverse group, including local communities, field level government

officers and environmentalists, actively campaigns for environmental rights such as clean air,

safe drinking water and sustainable land use. They work tirelessly to protect forests, wildlife,

and ecosystems from the threats posed by rapid industrialization, deforestation, and

unsustainable agricultural practices. These defenders often engage in grassroots

mobilization, raising awareness about environmental issues and advocating for policies that

promote ecological balance and sustainability. Despite their critical contributions, they face

significant challenges, including intimidation, harassment, and violence.

Infrastructure projects such as power plants, highways, and irrigation schemes often pose

severe risks to both the environment and its defenders. These projects can lead to habitat

destruction, pollution, and displacement of communities, prompting defenders to protest

and demand accountability from both the government and the private sector. However,

these protests are often met with state-sanctioned violence and criminalization, with

defenders facing threats not only from law enforcement but also from developers and

politicians who have vested interests in these projects.The intersection of environmental

activism and human rights in Sri Lanka underscores the urgent need for stronger legal

protections and support for those who risk their lives to protect the environment and

advocate for sustainable development.

Documenting such incidents and raising awareness of these threats is becoming increasingly

important as the dangers to environmental defenders grow. As a national and global

environmental community, we must demand that governments protect the rights to protest

against the destruction of natural resources and violations of environmental rights. These

environmental human rights defenders play a vital role in ensuring that we pass a healthy

planet to the next generation.

Hemantha Withanage

Chair, Centre for Environmental Justice

*******************************************

Foreword

It is with great pride and urgency that we present the report “Environmental Human Rights

Defenders in Sri Lanka: A Situational Analysis." This comprehensive study, prepared by Ms.

Niluka Senarathne, a distinguished sociologist with extensive experience in the field, sheds

light on the critical yet often perilous work undertaken by environmental and human rights

defenders in Sri Lanka.

In recent years, the role of Environmental Human Rights Defenders (EHRDs) has become

increasingly vital. These brave individuals and groups are at the forefront of advocating for

sustainable practices, protecting our natural resources, and ensuring that human rights are

upheld in the face of environmental challenges. Despite their invaluable contributions,

EHRDs face numerous threats and obstacles, ranging from harassment and stigmatization to

violent attacks and legal persecution.

The findings of this report underscore the need for a robust support system to safeguard

these defenders. Through a meticulous analysis of the challenges faced by EHRDs, this

report not only highlights the risks but also identifies significant gaps in current support

mechanisms. It offers a compelling call to action for policy-makers, civil society

organizations, and the international community to enhance protections and create a safer

environment for EHRDs to carry out their crucial work.

I am deeply grateful to all the environmental activists who participated in this study, sharing

their invaluable insights and experiences. I also acknowledge the exceptional dedication of

Ms. Niluka Senarathne and our committed team at the CEJ.

As we navigate the complex landscape of environmental activism in Sri Lanka, it is

imperative that we recognize and address the multifaceted challenges faced by EHRDs. This

report is a significant step towards that goal, providing crucial insights and actionable

recommendations to foster a safer and more supportive environment for those dedicated to

protecting our planet and its inhabitants.

Let us commit to standing in solidarity with environmental and human rights defenders,

ensuring that their voices are heard and their contributions are honored. Together, we can

build a future where environmental justice and human rights are upheld, and where those

who champion these causes can do so without fear.

Dilena Pathragoda

Executive Director, Centre for Environmental Justice

Download here