Colombo, 14 August 2026 – Sri Lanka’s dedication to upholding the rights of persons with disabilities takes centre stage today as the United Nations Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD Committee) begins its review of the nation’s initial report under the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) in Geneva. This significant event, part of the Committee’s 35th session, marks a crucial milestone in Sri Lanka’s journey towards inclusivity and equality.
High-Level Delegation Leads Constructive Dialogue
The review, structured as an interactive dialogue, will see a high-level Sri Lankan delegation engaging directly with the CRPD Committee. Leading this important delegation is Dr. Upali Pannilage, Minister of Rural Development, Social Security and Community Empowerment, underscoring the government’s commitment at the highest levels.
The delegation comprises a hybrid team, with members participating both in-person in Geneva and virtually from Colombo:
- In-person in Geneva: Senior officials from the Ministry of Rural Development, Social Security and Community Empowerment, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, and the Attorney-General’s Department will be present. They will be joined by officials from the Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka to the United Nations Office and other International Organizations in Geneva.
- Virtually from Colombo: Senior officials and representatives from various other relevant Ministries and institutions will contribute remotely, ensuring a comprehensive representation of national efforts.
A Decade of Progress and Reporting
Sri Lanka ratified the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) in 2016, signifying its formal commitment to the international framework protecting and promoting the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities. Following ratification, the nation submitted its initial report under the Convention in October 2019.
Further demonstrating its transparency and responsiveness, Sri Lanka provided additional information in December 2025 by responding to a comprehensive list of issues raised by the Committee. Today’s review provides an invaluable platform for both the Government of Sri Lanka and the CRPD Committee to meticulously assess the progress made in implementing the Convention and to foster a constructive dialogue on future measures aimed at strengthening the protection and promotion of disability rights across the island nation.
Global Context of the 35th Session
Sri Lanka’s review is taking place during the CRPD Committee’s 35th session, which is being held from 12 to 27 August 2026 in Geneva. During this session, Sri Lanka will be considered alongside other nations including Slovakia, Qatar, Lithuania, and Chile, highlighting the global effort to advance disability rights and ensure accountability under international human rights law.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment & Tourism, in Colombo, released the official announcement regarding this review on 13 August 2026, setting the stage for today’s crucial dialogue.
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