Sri Lankan Human Rights Leaders and Religious Representatives Unite in Joint Appeal to the United Nations

Colombo, Sri Lanka – 24 July 2026: Representatives from human rights organisations, legal professionals religious leaders, and members of civil society gathered in Colombo on 23 July 2026 to participate in a Joint Statement Event calling for greater international attention to concerns surrounding the detention of Shincheonji Church of Jesus Chairman, Mr Lee Man-hee. 

The event brought together representatives from the International Human Rights Organisation (IHRO), legal practitioners, Christian pastors and volunteers. Members of the national media also attended the programme. 

During the event, participants endorsed nine individual petitions and jointly signed a consolidated petition addressed to the United Nations, urging the international community to examine the matter from the perspective of human rights, religious freedom and humanitarian principles. 

Following the conclusion of the event, representatives proceeded to the United Nations office in Colombo, where the jointly signed petition was formally submitted for the attention of the United Nations. The submission marked the culmination of the day's proceedings and reflected the participants' collective appeal for the matter to be considered within the framework of internationally recognised human rights principles and freedom of religion. 

Delivering the keynote address, Mr Subashana, Director of the International Human Rights Organisation (IHRO), stated that the issue should not be viewed solely as a matter concerning one religious community, but as one relating to fundamental human rights and freedom of religion or belief. He encouraged greater engagement with leaders from different religious traditions and proposed expanding public awareness through both digital and physical petition campaigns. 

Mr Subashana examined that this issue raises broader humanitarian concerns deserving international attention. He also proposed that supporting countries work together to submit a collective petition to Geneva and emphasised the importance of cooperation among religious communities in promoting respect for human dignity and fundamental freedoms. 

Justice of the Peace and Attorney-at-Law Mr Susantha also addressed the gathering, expressing concern regarding the detention of the 96-year-old religious leader. He stated that no individual should face imprisonment on matters relating to religion and highlighted Chairman Lee Manhee's longstanding efforts in promoting peace and harmony internationally. He further emphasised the importance of ensuring that the principles of justice, human dignity and freedom of religion are upheld irrespective of nationality or religious affiliation. 

Mr Susantha also called for broader public awareness initiatives to help inform communities about the issues involved and encourage constructive international dialogue based on universally recognised human rights principles. 

The organisers expressed appreciation to all participants, supporting organisations, media representatives and members of civil society who attended the event. They reaffirmed their commitment to protecting fundamental freedoms and encouraging international cooperation through lawful and humanitarian means. 

The Joint Statement Event concluded with a shared commitment among participants to continue advocating for the protection of human rights, freedom of religion or belief and respect for the dignity of every individual through peaceful and constructive engagement. 

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