December 22, 2023 Bridge Team

In an initiative aimed at fostering inclusivity and addressing the challenges faced by the LGBTIQ
community in Sri Lanka, the Legal Aid Commission, through the Support to Justice Sector project
(JURE), organized a Round Table Dialogue. This pivotal event, supported by the European Union and
jointly implemented by UNDP and UNICEF Sri Lanka, was facilitated by the Ministry of Justice. The
dialogue brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from the Attorney General’s
Department, the Ministry of Justice, Women and Children’s Bureu Sri Lanka Police, Prison’s Department,
Human Rights Commission, Legal Aid Commission, and the Bar Association of Sri Lanka.

The gathering served as a platform for an open and constructive discussion, with the primary focus on
understanding the unique challenges faced by the LGBTIQ community and devising collaborative
strategies to address them effectively. The event marked a significant step towards creating an inclusive
legal framework that respects and protects the rights of individuals irrespective of their sexual orientation
or gender identity.

The Round Table Dialogue commenced with a warm welcome from the Legal Aid Commission,
emphasizing the importance of collective efforts in creating a more equitable and just society.
Representatives from the LGBTIQ community were also present, ensuring that their voices were heard
firsthand by government officials and other pertinent stakeholders.

Throughout the dialogue, participants engaged in a fruitful exchange of ideas, experiences, and
perspectives. The Attorney General’s Department shared insights into legal considerations of the Special
determination of Supreme Court on the repeal of section 365 and 365 of the Penal Code.

The Human Rights Commission, the legal aid commission, the Bar association of Sri Lanka and the
representatives of police shared extended the members of the LGBTIQ community to reach out to them in
case of an violations or issues for hands on support. Further the Legal Aid Commission and the Bar
Association of Sri Lanka provided valuable input on legal support mechanisms and advocacy efforts.

One of the key outcomes of the dialogue was the unanimous agreement that collaboration and
communication between the government and the LGBTIQ community are essential for meaningful
progress. To formalize this commitment, it was decided that LGBTIQ organizations would compile a
comprehensive list of requests and recommendations. These would be submitted in writing to the Legal
Aid Commission following the next round of discussions at the upcoming meeting of the USC.

This decision marked a significant step forward, fostering a sense of partnership and mutual
understanding between these stakeholders and the LGBTIQ community. By formalizing the dialogue
process and establishing clear channels for communication, the stakeholders involved are laying the
groundwork for a more inclusive landscape.