CONFIDENTIAL
37TH UNHCR EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE (EXCOM) : GENEVA 6 - 16 OCTOBER
Brief 6
1986
(F) SRI LANKA
1.
Long history of tension between majority Sinhalese community
(76%) and minority Tamils (18%). Deepening Tamil alienation led
to emergence of Tamil terrorist groups in late 1970's - currently
control Northern Jaffna Peninsular and operate widely in Eastern
Province. Violence characterised by indiscriminate land-mining
and attacks on security forces and reprisal attacks on terrorists.
Civilians the main victims. Sri Lankan economy under severe pressure
Amnesty International have expressed concern about human rights
abuses against Tamil minority. AI report in September 1986 detailed
disappearances/political detentions. Problem principally one of
ill-discipline in poorly-trained, predominantly Sinhalese armed forces
But better training and official policy of restraint have improved
2.
situation.
3. Some tension in Central Highlands and bomb explosions in Colombo
and elsewhere but Tamils not caught up in sporadic fighting in North
and East (about 50% of Tamil population) relatively unaffected by
troubles. No repetition of serious inter-communal violence of July
1983; Sri Lankan Government and Tamil representatives remain
committed to peace talks. Human rights abuses and refugee problem
products of continuing fighting only end with political settlement
agreed between all parties involved.
4.
Under Indian pressure, two rounds of peace talks recently completed; some measure of agreement, but essential problem (Tamil
autonomy not addressed. Tamil militants may participate in next
stage of talks later this month. Indian role crucial. Activities
of opposition parties complicate government position in negotiations.
Important that any international statements contribute to peace
process, encourage Sri Lankan Government/Tamil flexibility, avoid
further round of recrimination.
CONFIDENTIAL