Human Rights ministry expresses confidence in processes agreed on to verify disbursement of funds and other conduct by INGOs

In response to the article in The Island newspaper of November 12, 2007, under the heading “Probe INGOs,” and to effect that funds disbursed by International NGOs in Sri Lanka have found their way to the LTTE, the Ministry of Disaster Management and Human Rights wishes to reiterate the government’s position that such allegations would be inquired into fairly and impartially with the participation of all stakeholders. The process of ensuring accountability should be carried out without statements being made to the media prior to an investigation being conducted, which may result in prejudgment and bias. This is a consolidated position of the government and has been agreed on at various policy-making fora, especially the Consultative Committee on Humanitarian Assistance (CCHA) chaired by the Minister of Disaster Management and Human Rights, which took a decision on this matter on January 19, 2007 at its fourth meeting.

The CCHA decision is that:

1. The Secretary, Ministry of Defence has the right to start an investigation if an organisation is accused of aiding the LTTE.
2. The accused party should be given the opportunity to put forward their case as early as possible during the investigation
3. Until investigations have been concluded, parties shall refrain from issuing any statements.

 

Furthermore, with the aim of ensuring transparency and accountability of INGO operations in Sri Lanka, the CCHA has appointed a sub committee consisting of governments, donor, UN and INGO representatives. It was convened in order to agree on the development of a Mode of Operations for all stakeholders involved in humanitarian and development work in Sri Lanka. The object of this modality is to strengthen cooperation between, and amongst all humanitarian and development actors – both government and non-government – in order that all actors discharge their mandates in a transparent and fair manner, in accordance with the principles of good governance. This consensus will also enhance levels of acceptance and facilitation amongst government stakeholders.

The government is appreciative of the efforts of all genuine international and local NGOs as well as bilateral and multilateral agencies that have been engaged in humanitarian assistance and relief efforts that have contributed to the welfare of the Sri Lankan people. It is through a constructive joint effort between the government and these agencies that an effective response to humanitarian needs and concerns can be put into action. The government is committed to building stronger partnership and productive relationships with these agencies in order that those Sri Lankan’s who are most in need of assistance are able to receive such services.

The Ministry of Disaster Management and Human Rights is confident that these processes are sufficient to meet current exigencies. Any proposed deviation from this agreed upon policy does not reflect the official position of the Government of Sri Lanka.

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