[Ed. Note. This AHRC statement was released in early May, immediately after following the 'fall' of the Elephant Pass military base.]

The events of the Easter weekend involving the fighting in the Elephant Pass and elsewhere in the North provide a sobering moment for all Sri Lankans. It has become quite clear that an early settlement of the dispute with the assistance of third party mediation is the best alternative to continuing war in the country.

Most news reports on the fall of the Elephant Pass refer to 'Chitta Dhiriya Natuwee Yama' (demoralisation) in the rank and file as well as in the leader-ship of the Sri Lankan military. This is no surprise. As this war is basically a creation of self-interested politicians over several decades (particularly since 1977), nothing is more natural than this demoralisation. In fact it is the whole country that has been de-moralised, due to the careless manner in which the political leadership has failed to bring about a just and peaceful settlement to the conflict between the two communities, along with the resulting, unnecessary loss of life and resources which could otherwise have been used for better purposes. How-ever this is not a moment to point fingers at whom is to blame. The only realistic option is to look resolutely for a decisive end to the war by way of a peaceful settlement that is completely respectful of the demands of everyone.

In this respect, the fact that the Norwegian Government has already initiated a process of negotiation provides a reason for hope. Instead of playing petty politics relating to such peace negotiations, it would be rather more beneficial to enter into this process in earnestness and responsibility. This would allow the people of Sri Lanka to see the beginnings of serious discussion on the ways to bring an end to military conflicts between the parties.

What should matter most is that no further lives be lost in an utterly meaningless war. The preciousness of the lives of people from both parties needs to be the paramount consideration.

To make the political discussions more serious, it is the people themselves who should begin to intervene and let the politicians know that they are tired of this war and want a just and peaceful settlement as soon as possible. If the people do not intervene to make their feelings felt, it will not be surprising to see the politicians fail to seize this opportunity and return back to their normal political tricks and habits. The people will have no one to blame if more of their children are to die and more of their resources wasted at a time when many other countries are rapidly making progress.

We also urge the United Nations and the international community to assist the Sri Lankan government and people to realize that it is only a peaceful solution by political means that will bring an end to this decades-long armed conflict. We particularly urge the Secretary General of the United Nations to decisively intervene on this occasion as he has done in several other conflicts. We also urge the Norwegian Government and any other governments that have taken an interest in achieving peace in Sri Lanka to make their efforts even more urgent under the present circumstances.

KOFI ANNAN SPEAKS OUT ON SRI LANKA

'The Secretary-General is concerned about the possible humanitarian consequences of the recent escalation of fighting in Sri Lanka. Thousands of civilians are in danger of being displaced. He appeals to all parties to avoid placing the lives of civilians at risk, and to ensure humanitarian access to all in need.

'The Secretary-General strongly believes that a political solution is necessary to the conflict in Sri Lanka. He welcomes the offer by the Government of Norway to facilitate such a solution.'

UN Press Release, 9 May 2000