Amnesty Warns Sri Lanka’s Proposed Anti-Terror Law Could Undermine Civil Liberties

Amnesty Warns Sri Lanka’s Proposed Anti-Terror Law Could Undermine Civil Liberties
———————————–
Amnesty International has raised concerns about a proposed counterterrorism law currently being debated in Sri Lanka, warning that it could threaten fundamental freedoms and be misused against minorities, critics, and journalists.

The draft Protection of the State from Terrorism Bill 2026 is intended to replace the controversial Prevention of Terrorism Act. However, Amnesty says the new bill still contains provisions that may allow arbitrary detention and broad security powers.

One major concern is the bill’s vague definition of terrorism, which the organization says could be interpreted widely and used against Tamil and Muslim minorities, as well as political opponents and journalists. The group also warned that activities such as protests or strikes could still be labeled as terrorism if linked to other broadly defined factors.

The proposed legislation would expand the authority of the Sri Lanka Armed Forces and the Sri Lanka Coast Guard, allowing them to conduct searches, arrests, interrogations, and property seizures.

Amnesty also highlighted provisions allowing suspects to be detained for up to two years without a final court ruling, and criticized the potential use of confidential evidence that may not be fully disclosed to defendants.

The organization urged Sri Lankan authorities to revise the bill to ensure compliance with international human rights standards and protect civil liberties.