For Immediate Release
May 18, 2025 | Markham, Ontario

Today, May 18th, 2025, marks sixteen years since the end of the brutal conflict in Sri Lanka and the country’s government’s genocidal onslaught that culminated along the shores of Mullivaikkal. On this solemn anniversary, Tamil Rights Group (TRG) stands in remembrance of the many Tamil civilians who lost their lives, and the innumerable others who endured unspeakable atrocities. We also pay tribute to the brave souls who made the ultimate sacrifice for freedom and self-determination. Their courage, dedication, and memory remain etched in our collective conscience

Over the past sixteen years, we have made significant strides in the global recognition of the atrocities committed against the Tamil people. Investigative reports, international advocacy, and diaspora mobilization have brought the reality of these crimes into clearer view. And yet, despite mounting evidence and repeated calls for accountability, no meaningful justice has been attained. The perpetrators of mass atrocities—war crimes, crimes against humanity, and acts amounting to genocide—continue to walk free, while survivors still live with the trauma and injustice of a state that denies their suffering.

At TRG, we have dedicated ourselves to the pursuit of justice through legitimate international legal channels. We are actively exploring avenues to bring cases forward to the International Criminal Court (ICC) and the International Court of Justice (ICJ). These are not just symbolic gestures, they are deliberate, principled efforts to hold the Sri Lankan state and responsible individuals to account. Our work reflects a deep and unwavering commitment to international justice, accountability, and the restoration of Tamil dignity and rights.

As we look ahead, the urgency of our mission has never been greater. Even today, the Sri Lankan government continues to erase evidence of war crimes, including the destruction of mass graves, the obstruction of forensic investigations, and the ongoing demolition of traditional Tamil  structures and sacred religious sites. These acts are not only violations of human rights but deliberate efforts to destroy our historical presence and collective memory.

We cannot and will not allow this to continue.

As we mark the 16th anniversary, we invite our global Tamil community, allies, and human rights supporters to remain engaged and committed to our ongoing efforts for justice and accountability. In the months ahead as we work towards advancing key legal initiatives we will continue to rely on your support—whether through public advocacy, community mobilization, resource sharing, or technical expertise. Together, we can help ensure that evidence is preserved, truth upheld, and justice steadily pursued.

Let this moment of remembrance also be one of renewed determination. Justice for the Tamil people is not a distant hope—it is a fight we can and must win.

In solidarity and remembrance,

Respectfully,

Navaratnam Srinarayanadas | President and Chair

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