The Human Rights Defenders Collective is an initiative born from iProbono Sri Lanka’s Access to Justice Programs of 2021 and 2023. Under these programs, we provided training on securing justice for victims of human rights violations to lawyers, police officers, and activists. This group of 40 lawyers has now emerged as a dynamic nationwide force, actively engaging as first responders and champions for vulnerable communities in Sri Lanka. Together, the group has assisted with and represented over 30 cases of human rights violations on a pro bono basis, setting significant legal precedents.
Our bi-annual Continued Legal Education Programme aims to provide sustained momentum and commitment to our vital work. We offer continuous learning and capacity-building opportunities, to nurture their ability to drive change.
The inaugural session on June 13, 2024 focused on the newly enacted Online Safety Act No. 9 of 2024, addressing its application and implications for safeguarding fundamental rights in the digital era.
The Act has sparked an intense debate within the Parliament and among civil society organisations. Critics have argued that it threatens fundamental rights, particularly freedom of speech and expression. Despite these concerns, the legislation was passed in January 2024. With our Collective working predominantly in cases involving online violence, it is vital that this new legislation is well understood to be applied to protect and assist victims in the future.
Our programme included a panel discussion featuring legal expert Jerusha Crossette-Thambiah, and journalists Sharlan Benedict and Ravindu Jayakody. They explored the nuances and impact of the Act in light of the upcoming election. Their conversation dealt with the Act’s adaptability and complexities, including its loopholes. The panellists explored strategies to maximise the Act’s positive aspects while mitigating its drawbacks.
We also hosted a workshop led by Crossette-Thambiah, offering a comprehensive breakdown of the Act’s provisions. This included specific protections and implications for women and children, LGBT+ persons, and activists. The workshop was supplemented with case studies and a meticulously curated toolkit designed to assist our Human Rights Defenders in handling matters pertaining to the Act at police stations and in court.
The program’s success, as expressed by participants, was its ability to shift the narrative surrounding the Act. As one participant said, “Before the session I was not aware of the remedies and protections available under the Act, but now I am educated on how the Act can benefit victims (of online violence).”
By empowering lawyers to utilise the Act for the benefit of their communities, the programme paves the way for greater access to justice for Sri Lanka’s most vulnerable populations.
