Mannar, July 27: United States officials responsible for political and human rights affairs relating to Sri Lanka met with representatives of civil society organisations in Mannar on Monday as part of an official visit to the Northern Province.
The discussions took place at the office of the Mannar Social Economic Development Organization (MESDO), where representatives from civil society organisations across the district briefed the delegation on the region’s current social, political and economic conditions.
The meeting focused on a range of issues affecting communities in the Northern Province, including livelihoods, economic recovery, sustainable development, social justice, human rights, good governance and future development opportunities.
Civil society representatives also raised concerns over challenges faced by communities in the North, highlighting issues such as land rights, livelihood security, youth and women’s participation, social cohesion, reconciliation, the protection of human rights and democratic participation.
Participants shared experiences from their work at the community level and presented recommendations reflecting the priorities and needs of local residents.
The US officials listened to the concerns raised and emphasised the importance of maintaining continued dialogue and cooperation with civil society organisations.
The meeting served as an opportunity to strengthen engagement between the international community and local civil society while promoting constructive dialogue on human rights, democratic governance, social justice and sustainable development in the Northern Province.
