UN calls for urgent prison reforms

The United Nations has expressed deep concern over the deadly violence at Negombo Prison that claimed at least 27 lives and injured more than 100 others, urging Sri Lanka to accelerate long-overdue reforms to its prison system.

In a statement, UN Resident Coordinator Marc-André Franche conveyed condolences to the families of those killed and wished a speedy recovery to the injured.

He noted that prison officers perform difficult duties in the service of the State and the public, and said their loss was deeply felt. The UN stressed that inmates who were killed or injured were under the care and protection of the State, adding that both prison officers and prisoners deserve greater protection.

"Ensuring that protection is a fundamental responsibility of the State," the statement said.

The UN said the incident underscored the urgent need for sustained investment and reform to address longstanding issues such as prison overcrowding, outdated practices and poor detention conditions, challenges faced not only in Sri Lanka but also in prison systems worldwide.

It added that Sri Lanka's commitment to international human rights standards governing the treatment, safety and wellbeing of persons deprived of liberty provides an important framework for such reforms.

Welcoming the appointment of an independent committee to investigate the incident, the UN said its findings should lead to concrete and lasting improvements in prison conditions.

The organisation also reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Sri Lanka through technical cooperation to enhance prison security, improve detention conditions and strengthen the welfare of correctional officers.