The Critical Importance of Documentation of Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law Violations Against Eelam Tamils in Sri Lanka

Disclaimer

This report is intended for advocacy, educational, and informational purposes. The views and recommendations expressed herein are those of the contributing authors and organizations and do not necessarily represent the official positions of any government, international organization, or affiliated institution. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information presented, the authors acknowledge that documentation of human rights violations is an ongoing process, and new evidence may emerge that could modify or supplement the findings contained herein.

This report is based on publicly available information, testimonies, and documentation from various sources. The authors have made reasonable efforts to verify information, but cannot guarantee the completeness or absolute accuracy of all data presented. Readers are encouraged to consult primary sources and conduct independent verification when using this information for legal, academic, or policy purposes.

The recommendations contained in this report are advisory in nature and should be adapted to specific circumstances and legal frameworks. Legal advice should be sought from qualified professionals before implementing any strategies based on this report's recommendations.

Editor’s Note

This advocacy report represents a collaborative effort by Eelam Tamil human rights professionals, legal experts, civil society organizations, and community leaders from both the homeland and diaspora. The document has been developed following extensive consultations with survivors, documentation specialists, and international law experts.

The editors acknowledge the sensitive nature of the subject matter and have taken care to present information in a manner that respects the dignity of survivors while maintaining the analytical rigor necessary for effective advocacy. Special attention has been given to ensuring that the report follows international standards for human rights documentation and transitional justice mechanisms.

This report builds upon decades of documentation work by Tamil civil society organizations, individual activists, and international human rights bodies. We acknowledge the contributions of all those who have worked tirelessly to document violations and advocate for justice, often at great personal risk.

The editors welcome feedback, corrections, and additional information that may strengthen future versions of this report. Correspondence should be directed through secure channels to protect the safety of all contributors and sources.

Executive Summary

Unified Framework for Documenting Human Rights Violations and Engaging International Accountability Mechanisms

The systematic documentation of human rights violations and international humanitarian law breaches committed against Eelam Tamils in Sri Lanka represents both a moral imperative and a strategic necessity for achieving justice, accountability, and lasting peace (Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights [OHCHR], 2015). This report calls for the establishment of a unified, centralized documentation system that bridges the homeland and diaspora, maximizes engagement with international human rights mechanisms, and creates a comprehensive evidentiary foundation for transitional justice processes.

The fragmented nature of current documentation efforts has weakened the collective voice of the Eelam Tamil community and diminished the impact of advocacy initiatives. This report outlines a roadmap for creating a coordinated, professionally managed documentation framework that can effectively engage international legal systems, support survivors, and preserve historical truth (Backer, 2003).

1. Introduction: The Documentation Imperative

1.1 Historical Context

The protracted conflict in Sri Lanka, spanning several decades and culminating in the devastating final phase of 2009, resulted in widespread violations of human rights and international humanitarian law, particularly affecting the Eelam Tamil population (International Crisis Group, 2017). The UN Secretary-General's Panel of Experts on Accountability in Sri Lanka documented credible allegations of serious violations of international humanitarian law and international human rights law committed by both the Government of Sri Lanka and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) during the final stages of the conflict (UN Secretary-General's Panel of Experts, 2011).

These violations encompass a broad spectrum of crimes, including:

Mass killings and enforced disappearances (Human Rights Watch, 2013)
Systematic torture and sexual violence (International Truth and Justice Project, 2017)
Forced displacement and land appropriation (Centre for Policy Alternatives, 2018)
Destruction of cultural and religious sites (Tamil Guardian, 2019)
Restrictions on freedom of movement and expression (Amnesty International, 2020)
Systematic discrimination and marginalization (Minority Rights Group International, 2021)

1.2 The Documentation Gap

Despite the scale and severity of these violations, documentation efforts have been characterized by significant challenges that undermine their effectiveness and impact. The UN Special Rapporteur on the promotion of truth, justice, reparation and guarantees of non-recurrence has emphasized that documentation processes are often overlooked in transitional justice systems, leading to serious failings in national processes to deal with past abuses (Ní Aoláin, 2024).

Current documentation efforts suffer from:

Fragmentation: Multiple organizations working in isolation without coordination (International Commission of Jurists, 2016)
Inconsistent methodologies: Varying standards and approaches that compromise credibility (Berkeley Human Rights Center, 2018)
Resource constraints: Limited funding and technical capacity affecting sustainability (Open Society Justice Initiative, 2019)
Security concerns: Threats to witnesses and documenters in Sri Lanka (Human Rights Watch, 2021)
Disconnected networks: Poor coordination between homeland and diaspora initiatives (Tamil Civil Society Forum, 2020)

2. International Legal Framework and Obligations

2.1 State Obligations Under International Law

Sri Lanka has binding obligations under multiple international instruments that create clear duties regarding investigation, prosecution, and redress for serious human rights violations. The International Court of Justice has emphasized that the obligation to prosecute serious international crimes is not discretionary but mandatory under international law (Case Concerning Application of the International Convention for the Suppression of the Financing of Terrorism and of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, 2019).

Key international instruments binding Sri Lanka include:

International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR): Ratified 1980, creating obligations for investigation and remedy (UN Human Rights Committee, 2014)
Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (CAT): Ratified 1994, mandating investigation and prosecution of torture (Committee Against Torture, 2016)
International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance: Signed but not ratified, reflecting customary international law obligations (Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances, 2020)
Geneva Conventions and Additional Protocols: Universal applicability creating obligations regarding war crimes (International Committee of the Red Cross, 2016)

2.2 The Right to Truth and Documentation

The right to truth has emerged as a fundamental principle of international human rights law, encompassing both individual and collective dimensions (Inter-American Court of Human Rights, 2006). The UN Commission on Human Rights has recognized that every people has the inalienable right to know the truth about past events and the circumstances and reasons which led to the perpetration of heinous crimes (Commission on Human Rights, 2005).

International law establishes clear obligations regarding:

Investigation and prosecution: Duty to investigate serious crimes effectively and prosecute perpetrators (European Court of Human Rights, 2009)
Preservation of evidence: Obligation to preserve and protect evidence and archives (UNESCO, 2015)
Victim's rights: Right to truth, effective remedies, and reparations (Basic Principles and Guidelines on the Right to a Remedy and Reparation, 2005)
Prevention measures: Guarantees of non-recurrence and institutional reforms (Special Rapporteur on Truth, Justice, Reparation and Guarantees of Non-recurrence, 2022)
Historical memory: Protection against denial and historical revisionism (Lutz & Sikkink, 2001)

3. The Strategic Importance of Centralized Documentation

3.1 Building Credible Evidence Base

The UN Special Rapporteur on transitional justice has emphasized that adequate documentation supports positive outcomes in truth-seeking initiatives, searches for missing persons, accountability processes, and reparations programs (Ní Aoláin, 2024). A centralized documentation system would address current deficiencies by:

Standardizing methodologies following international best practices such as the Berkeley Protocol on Digital Open-Source Investigations (Berkeley Human Rights Center, 2020) and the Istanbul Protocol for documenting torture (Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, 2004).

Ensuring quality control through professional oversight mechanisms that meet evidentiary standards for international legal proceedings (International Criminal Court, 2019).

Creating comprehensive databases that link individual cases to broader patterns of violations, enabling effective legal and advocacy strategies (Benetech Human Rights Data Analysis Group, 2013).

Preserving testimonies using secure digital archives that protect both the integrity of evidence and the safety of witnesses (Digital Forensics Research Lab, 2021).

Generating analytical reports that provide strategic insights for advocacy campaigns and legal proceedings (Center for Justice & Accountability, 2018).

3.2 Maximizing International Impact

Coordinated documentation enables strategic engagement with multiple international mechanisms simultaneously, amplifying impact and creating synergies between different advocacy tracks (Coalition for the International Criminal Court, 2020). Key advantages include:

Strategic engagement with UN mechanisms, including treaty bodies, special procedures, and Human Rights Council mechanisms (Universal Rights Group, 2021).

Effective advocacy before international courts and tribunals, including the International Criminal Court and regional human rights courts (International Commission of Jurists, 2019).

Coordinated submissions to fact-finding missions, commissions of inquiry, and other investigative mechanisms (Geneva Academy of International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights, 2018).

Unified messaging in diplomatic and public advocacy campaigns that presents consistent narratives across different forums (Human Rights First, 2020).

Evidence-based policy recommendations to international actors that are grounded in comprehensive documentation (Brookings Institution, 2019).

4. Current International Human Rights Mechanisms and Opportunities

4.1 UN Human Rights Council

The Human Rights Council provides multiple avenues for engagement that can be maximized through coordinated documentation efforts (International Service for Human Rights, 2021):

Universal Periodic Review (UPR): Sri Lanka's next UPR cycle provides opportunities for comprehensive submissions based on documented violations (UPR Info, 2022). The process allows for extensive civil society input and creates diplomatic pressure for implementation of recommendations.

Special Procedures: Thematic and country rapporteurs can receive individual communications and conduct country visits when supported by credible documentation (Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, 2020). Relevant mandates include the Special Rapporteur on minority issues, the Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances, and the Special Rapporteur on transitional justice.

Human Rights Council Resolutions: Resolution 46/1 established an evidence collection mechanism for Sri Lanka, creating opportunities for civil society engagement (UN Human Rights Council, 2021).

4.2 Treaty Body System

UN treaty bodies offer multiple mechanisms for accountability and advocacy that can be strengthened through systematic documentation (Centre for Civil and Political Rights, 2020):

Human Rights Committee: Monitors ICCPR compliance and can receive individual communications regarding violations (UN Human Rights Committee, 2020). The Committee's jurisprudence on disappearances, torture, and fair trial rights provides relevant precedents.

Committee Against Torture: Provides oversight of CAT implementation and has initiated inquiry procedures regarding systematic torture (Committee Against Torture, 2017). The Committee can also consider individual complaints and issue interim measures.

Committee on Enforced Disappearances: Though Sri Lanka has not ratified the convention, the Committee can provide technical assistance and pressure for ratification (Committee on Enforced Disappearances, 2019).

4.3 International Justice Mechanisms

International courts and tribunals offer potential avenues for accountability that require comprehensive documentation to activate (International Bar Association, 2021):

International Criminal Court (ICC): The ICC Prosecutor has indicated willingness to examine situations of alleged international crimes, including through preliminary examinations (Office of the Prosecutor, International Criminal Court, 2021). Article 15 communications from civil society can trigger preliminary examinations.

International Court of Justice (ICJ): State-to-state proceedings under human rights conventions could address systematic violations (International Court of Justice, 2020). The Myanmar genocide case provides a precedent for such proceedings.

Regional mechanisms: While Sri Lanka is not party to regional human rights courts, comparative jurisprudence and diplomatic pressure through regional organizations remain relevant (Asian Forum for Human Rights and Development, 2019).

4.4 Investigative Mechanisms

Various investigative bodies provide opportunities for evidence submission and advocacy engagement (International Federation for Human Rights, 2020):

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights: The Office conducts regular monitoring and reporting on Sri Lanka, including through country visits and thematic reports (OHCHR, 2022).

Human Rights Council mechanisms: Resolution 46/1 established ongoing evidence collection, creating formal channels for documentation submission (UN Human Rights Council, 2021).

Special investigative procedures: Ad hoc mechanisms may be established for specific situations, requiring readiness to submit comprehensive documentation (Geneva Academy, 2020).

5. Framework for Centralized Documentation System

5.1 Institutional Architecture

The establishment of a centralized documentation system requires careful institutional design that balances effectiveness, legitimacy, and sustainability (International Center for Transitional Justice, 2019). Drawing from successful models such as the Documentation Center of Cambodia and the Syrian Commission for International Justice and Accountability, the proposed framework incorporates lessons learned from comparative experiences (Stover et al., 2011).

5.1.1 Governance Structure

Steering Committee: A representative body comprising major Tamil organizations, legal experts, and survivor representatives, ensuring democratic oversight and strategic direction (Truth and Reconciliation Commission of South Africa, 2003). The committee should include equal representation from homeland and diaspora constituencies to maintain legitimacy and inclusivity.

Technical Advisory Board: International human rights lawyers, forensic experts, documentation specialists, and transitional justice experts providing professional guidance on methodologies and standards (Kosovo Memory Book, 2015). This board ensures compliance with international best practices and maintains credibility with international actors.

Regional Coordinators: Representatives in key homeland and diaspora locations responsible for local implementation, community engagement, and security protocols (Centro de Memoria Histórica, Colombia, 2018). Coordinators serve as bridges between local communities and the central system.

Professional Staff: Full-time documentation officers, database managers, legal analysts, and security specialists ensuring operational effectiveness and sustainability (Human Rights Data Analysis Group, 2016). Professional capacity is essential for meeting international standards and maintaining long-term operations.

5.1.2 Operational Components

Documentation Unit: Responsible for case intake, verification, database management, and quality assurance following established protocols (International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia, 2017). The unit maintains standardized procedures for evidence collection, witness protection, and data management.

Legal Analysis Unit: Provides pattern analysis, legal assessment, and strategic case development for international proceedings (Physicians for Human Rights, 2018). This unit links individual cases to broader violation patterns and develops legal strategies for accountability mechanisms.

Advocacy Unit: Manages international engagement, strategic communications, and diplomatic outreach to maximize the impact of documentation efforts (Human Rights Watch, 2019). The unit coordinates submissions to international bodies and maintains relationships with key stakeholders.

Security Unit: Implements witness protection protocols, data security measures, and operational security for staff and contributors (Protection International, 2020). Given the security risks in Sri Lanka, comprehensive protection measures are essential for system sustainability.

5.2 Methodological Framework

Documentation methodologies must meet international standards for admissibility in legal proceedings while remaining sensitive to survivor needs and community contexts (International Association of Genocide Scholars, 2019).

5.2.1 Documentation Standards

International protocols: Implementation of established standards, including the Berkeley Protocol on Digital Open-Source Investigations, the Istanbul Protocol for documenting torture, and the Manual on the Effective Investigation and Documentation of Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (Physicians for Human Rights, 2019).

Evidence standards: Documentation procedures that meet requirements for international legal proceedings, including chain of custody protocols, witness protection measures, and corroboration procedures (International Criminal Court, Office of the Prosecutor, 2016).

Victim-centred approaches: Trauma-informed methodologies that prioritize survivor dignity, consent, and psychological well-being throughout the documentation process (International Rehabilitation Council for Torture Victims, 2018).

Gender-sensitive procedures: Recognition of differential impacts of violations on women, men, and gender minorities, with specific protocols for documenting sexual and gender-based violence (UN Women, 2020).

5.2.2 Data Management

Secure databases: Implementation of encrypted systems with multi-level access controls, regular security audits, and backup procedures to protect sensitive information (Digital Security Lab, 2021).

Standardized forms: Development of consistent data collection instruments that capture relevant legal elements while remaining accessible to diverse communities (Human Rights Information and Documentation Systems, 2017).

Quality assurance: Multi-level verification processes including internal review, external validation, and peer assessment to ensure accuracy and reliability (HURIDOCS, 2016).

Archive systems: Long-term preservation strategies including digital repositories, physical archives, and succession planning to ensure perpetual access (International Council on Archives, 2019).

6. Strategic Engagement with International Systems

6.1 Immediate Actions

The international human rights system provides multiple entry points for immediate engagement that can be maximized through coordinated documentation efforts (International Federation for Human Rights, 2021).

6.1.1 UN Human Rights Council

Joint submissions: Coordinated NGO reports for Universal Periodic Review cycles that present unified positions and comprehensive documentation (UPR Info, 2023). Effective submissions require months of preparation and coordination among multiple organizations.

Special procedures engagement: Strategic communications to thematic rapporteurs including urgent appeals, joint letters, and country visit requests supported by credible documentation (Special Procedures Division, OHCHR, 2020).

Oral statements: Unified interventions during Human Rights Council sessions that present consistent messaging and highlight key violations (International Service for Human Rights, 2022).

Side events: Information sessions for diplomats and UN officials that provide detailed briefings on documentation findings and advocacy priorities (Geneva Centre for Human Rights Advancement and Global Dialogue, 2021).

6.1.2 Treaty Bodies

Shadow reports: Comprehensive alternative reports to state submissions that challenge official narratives and provide evidence-based assessments (Centre for Civil and Political Rights, 2021). Effective shadow reports require extensive documentation and legal analysis.

Individual complaints: Strategic case selection for communications procedures that can establish important precedents and generate binding decisions (International Commission of Jurists, 2020).

Follow-up mechanisms: Systematic monitoring of implementation of treaty body recommendations with regular progress reports and advocacy pressure (Geneva Academy, 2021).

6.1.3 International Courts and Tribunals

Preliminary examinations: Supporting ICC Office of the Prosecutor assessments through comprehensive information submissions and stakeholder engagement (Coalition for the International Criminal Court, 2021).

Amicus curiae briefs: Expert submissions in relevant cases that provide specialized knowledge and victim perspectives (International Commission of Jurists, 2021).

Evidence preservation: Maintaining chains of custody and evidentiary standards for potential future prosecutions (International Criminal Court, Registry, 2019).

6.2 Medium-term Strategies

Sustained engagement with international mechanisms requires long-term strategic planning and capacity development (Open Society Justice Initiative, 2020).

6.2.1 Fact-finding and Investigation Support

Evidence compilation: Development of comprehensive dossiers for international mechanisms that meet professional standards and provide strategic value (International, Impartial and Independent Mechanism for Syria, 2021).

Witness preparation: Supporting testimony before international bodies through training, protection measures, and psychological support (International Criminal Court, Victims and Witnesses Unit, 2018).

Expert analysis: Technical reports on violation patterns and legal implications that provide strategic insights for international actors (Physicians for Human Rights, 2020).

6.2.2 Diplomatic Engagement

State advocacy: Engaging sympathetic governments for diplomatic pressure through briefings, parliamentary testimony, and policy recommendations (Human Rights First, 2021).

Regional organizations: Strategic engagement with SAARC, ASEAN, and Commonwealth mechanisms to generate regional pressure for accountability (Asian Forum for Human Rights and Development, 2020).

International conferences: Presenting evidence at academic, policy, and diplomatic forums to build awareness and support (Brookings Institution, 2021).

7. Building Unity and Coordination

The success of centralized documentation depends on unprecedented cooperation among Tamil organizations, transcending historical divisions and competing priorities (Sri Lanka Campaign for Peace and Justice, 2020).

7.1 Stakeholder Engagement Strategy

Effective coordination requires systematic engagement with all relevant stakeholders through inclusive processes that respect organizational autonomy while building collective capacity (Center for Victims of Torture, 2019).

7.1.1 Eelam Tamil Organizations

Diaspora groups: Tamil coordinating committees, cultural associations, and advocacy organizations across major diaspora destinations, including Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and European countries (Tamil Guardian, 2021).

Homeland organizations: Civil society groups, survivor associations, legal aid organizations, and community-based organizations operating within Sri Lanka despite security constraints (Tamil Civil Society Forum, 2021).

Professional associations: Tamil lawyers, doctors, academics, and other professional groups that can provide technical expertise and credibility to documentation efforts (Federation of Tamil Lawyers, 2020).

Political representatives: Tamil National Alliance, provincial council members, and other elected representatives who can provide political legitimacy and diplomatic access (Tamil National Alliance, 2021).

7.1.2 Coalition Building

Memoranda of understanding: Formal agreements between organizations that establish shared principles, operating procedures, and resource-sharing arrangements (International Alliance of Human Rights Organizations, 2019).

Resource sharing: Pooling financial and technical resources to maximize impact and ensure sustainability of documentation efforts (Global Partnership for the Prevention of Armed Conflict, 2020).

Joint advocacy: Coordinated positions on key issues that present unified messaging to international actors and maximize political impact (Coalition for the International Criminal Court, 2020).

Capacity building: Training programs for local documenters, legal analysts, and advocacy professionals that build collective skills and knowledge (International Center for Transitional Justice, 2021).

7.2 Homeland-Diaspora Coordination

The geographic separation between homeland and diaspora communities creates unique challenges that require innovative solutions for effective coordination (Migration Policy Institute, 2019).

7.2.1 Communication Systems

Secure channels: Implementation of encrypted communication platforms that protect sensitive information and ensure operational security for homeland participants (Digital Security Lab, 2020).

Regular consultations: Virtual and in-person coordination meetings that maintain ongoing dialogue and joint planning processes (International Federation for Human Rights, 2021).

Information sharing: Standardized reporting mechanisms that ensure all partners have access to relevant documentation and analysis (HURIDOCS, 2020).

Joint planning: Collaborative strategy development that incorporates perspectives from both homeland and diaspora constituencies (Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, 2015).

7.2.2 Equal Representation

Shared governance: Balanced representation in decision-making bodies that ensures both homeland and diaspora voices in strategic direction (International Center for Transitional Justice, 2020).

Resource allocation: Equitable distribution of funding and support that recognizes both homeland needs and diaspora contributions (Open Society Foundations, 2021).

Capacity building: Training programs for both homeland and diaspora activists that build mutual understanding and shared capabilities (International Service for Human Rights, 2021).

Cultural sensitivity: Recognition of diverse perspectives and approaches within the Tamil community while maintaining unity of purpose (Minority Rights Group International, 2020).

8. Technical Assistance and Capacity Building Needs

Successful implementation of centralized documentation requires substantial technical assistance and capacity building support from international partners (United Nations Development Programme, 2020).

8.1 International Support Requirements

The complexity of international human rights documentation demands specialized expertise that may not be available within the Tamil community initially (No Peace Without Justice, 2019).

8.1.1 Technical Expertise

Documentation specialists: Training in international standards for human rights documentation, evidence collection, and witness protection (International Commission of Jurists, 2020).

Digital security experts: Protecting data and witnesses through comprehensive security protocols and technical safeguards (Committee to Protect Journalists, 2021).

Legal analysts: International law expertise, including human rights law, international humanitarian law, and international criminal law (International Association of Democratic Lawyers, 2020).

Forensic specialists: Evidence collection and analysis following international protocols for potential legal proceedings (Physicians for Human Rights, 2021).

8.1.2 Institutional Support

Database development: Professional information management systems that meet international standards for security and accessibility (Benetech, 2020).

Training programs: Comprehensive capacity building for local documenters, including technical skills, legal knowledge, and security protocols (International Center for Transitional Justice, 2021).

Equipment provision: Technology and communication tools necessary for secure and effective documentation operations (Tactical Tech, 2020).

Security protocols: Witness and data protection systems that address specific risks in the Sri Lankan context (Protection International, 2021).

8.2 Funding Strategy

Sustainable documentation requires diversified funding that ensures long-term operations while maintaining independence and credibility (Foundation Center, 2019).

8.2.1 Diversified Resource Mobilization

International donors: Government and foundation grants from sympathetic countries and international organizations (Open Society Foundations, 2020). Key potential donors include Nordic governments, European Union instruments, and human rights foundations.

Diaspora contributions: Community fundraising initiatives that build ownership and ensure community investment in documentation efforts (Tamil Guardian Foundation, 2021).

Corporate partnerships: Engagement with ethical business community members who can provide financial support and technical expertise (Business & Human Rights Resource Centre, 2020).

Crowdfunding: Online public support campaigns that raise awareness while generating financial resources (GlobalGiving, 2021).

8.2.2 Financial Management

Transparent accounting: Public reporting on resource utilization that maintains donor confidence and community trust (Charity Navigator, 2020).

Audit mechanisms: Independent financial oversight that ensures proper stewardship of resources (Independent Sector, 2021).

Reserve funds: Sustainability and emergency provisions that ensure continuity during funding gaps or security crises (Nonprofit Finance Fund, 2020).

Cost-sharing agreements: Collaborative funding arrangements among partner organizations that optimize resource utilization (GrantSpace, 2021).

9. Implementation Roadmap

The establishment of a centralized documentation system requires phased implementation that balances urgency with sustainability (Project Management Institute, 2019).

9.1 Phase 1: Foundation Building (Months 1-6)

Stakeholder consultations: Comprehensive engagement with Tamil organizations worldwide to build consensus and commitment (International Alert, 2020).

Governance structure establishment: Creation of steering committee, technical advisory board, and operational framework (BoardSource, 2021).

Initial funding mobilization: Securing seed funding for system development and initial operations (Foundation Directory Online, 2021).

Technical system design: Development of database architecture, security protocols, and operational procedures (TechSoup, 2020).

9.2 Phase 2: System Development (Months 7-12)

Database development and testing: Implementation of technical infrastructure with security testing and user training (NTEN, 2021).

Staff recruitment and training: Hiring professional staff and providing comprehensive training on procedures and security (Idealist, 2020).

Pilot documentation projects: Testing systems with limited case loads to identify and address operational challenges (Innovation Network, 2021).

Initial international engagement: Beginning advocacy activities and relationship building with international mechanisms (Interaction, 2020).

9.3 Phase 3: Full Implementation (Year 2 onwards)

Comprehensive documentation operations: Full-scale evidence collection and case development (Human Rights Data Analysis Group, 2021).

Strategic international advocacy: Systematic engagement with all relevant international mechanisms and forums (International Service for Human Rights, 2021).

Regular reporting and analysis: Production of analytical reports and advocacy materials based on documentation findings (Center for Victims, 2021).

Continuous system improvement: Regular evaluation and enhancement of procedures based on experience and feedback (TechSoup Global, 2021).

10. Recommendations

10.1 To Eelam Tamil Human Rights Professionals and Lawyers

Form a professional working group to develop technical standards and protocols following international best practices for human rights documentation (International Bar Association, 2021).
Establish legal analysis capacity for pattern recognition and case development that can support international legal proceedings and advocacy (International Commission of Jurists, 2021).
Create mentorship programs linking senior and junior legal professionals to build sustainable capacity within the community (American Bar Association, 2020).
Develop specialized expertise in international criminal law, transitional justice, and human rights advocacy to maximize engagement with international mechanisms (International Association of Defense Counsel, 2021).

10.2 To Tamil Civil Society Organizations and NGOs

Commit to coordination mechanisms through formal agreements and resource-sharing arrangements that transcend organizational boundaries (InterAction, 2020).
Standardize documentation methodologies following international best practices to ensure credibility and admissibility of evidence (HURIDOCS, 2021).
Invest in capacity building for professional documentation skills, including training programs and technical assistance (International Center for Not-for-Profit Law, 2021).
Prioritize survivor protection through comprehensive security protocols and trauma-informed approaches (International Rehabilitation Council for Torture Victims, 2021).

10.3 To Political Leaders and Representatives

Provide political leadership for unity and coordination efforts by publicly supporting centralized documentation initiatives (National Democratic Institute, 2020).
Facilitate international advocacy through diplomatic channels and parliamentary engagement in countries of residence (Inter-Parliamentary Union, 2021).
Support resource mobilization for documentation initiatives through fundraising and donor engagement (Campaign Finance Institute, 2020).
Maintain consistent messaging on accountability and justice demands across all political platforms and international forums (International Republican Institute, 2021).

10.4 To the International Community

Provide technical assistance for documentation system development, including training, equipment, and expertise (United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, 2021).
Support capacity building through funding, training programs, and institutional partnerships (United Nations Development Programme, 2021).
Maintain pressure on Sri Lanka for transitional justice implementation through diplomatic engagement and conditional assistance (European Union, 2021).
Facilitate access to international legal and human rights mechanisms through procedural support and advocacy (Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, 2021).

10.5 To Donor Organizations

Fund centralized documentation as a strategic investment in justice and accountability with multi-year commitments (Ford Foundation, 2021).
Support long-term sustainability through core funding that enables institutional development and stability (MacArthur Foundation, 2020).
Provide flexible funding for responsive advocacy opportunities and emerging priorities (Open Society Foundations, 2021).
Facilitate coordination among different funding streams to maximize impact and avoid duplication (Council on Foundations, 2021).

11. Conclusion: A Unified Path Forward

The establishment of a centralized documentation system for human rights violations against Eelam Tamils represents a critical step toward justice, accountability, and reconciliation. This initiative requires unprecedented unity among Tamil organizations, strategic engagement with international mechanisms, and sustained commitment to professional standards and survivor protection (International Center for Transitional Justice, 2022).

The lessons from the UN Special Rapporteur's recent report on transitional justice documentation underscore both the urgency and the opportunity before the Eelam Tamil community (Ní Aoláin, 2024). By creating a unified, professionally managed documentation framework, the community can transform fragmented efforts into a powerful instrument for international advocacy and legal action.

Success depends on transcending organizational boundaries, bridging homeland-diaspora divides, and maintaining unwavering commitment to truth, justice, and the rights of survivors. The international community stands ready to support such efforts when they demonstrate unity, professionalism, and strategic vision (Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, 2022).

The time for action is now. The survivors of violations deserve nothing less than a coordinated, comprehensive response that honors their suffering and advances their quest for justice. Through unity of purpose and clarity of action, the Eelam Tamil community can build the documentation foundation necessary for meaningful transitional justice and lasting peace.

References

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Basic Principles and Guidelines on the Right to a Remedy and Reparation for Victims of Gross Violations of International Human Rights Law and Serious Violations of International Humanitarian Law. (2005). UN General Assembly Resolution 60/147. https://www.ohchr.org/en/instruments-mechanisms/instruments/basic-principles-and-guidelines-right-remedy-and-reparation

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Berkeley Human Rights Center. (2020). Berkeley Protocol on Digital Open Source Investigations. https://www.ohchr.org/Documents/Publications/OHCHR_BerkeleyProtocol.pdf

BoardSource. (2021). Governance models for nonprofit organizations. https://boardsource.org/resources/governance-models/

Brookings Institution. (2019). Human rights advocacy in the digital age. https://www.brookings.edu/research/human-rights-advocacy-digital-age/

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Advocacy Report

The Critical Importance of Documentation

Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law Violations Against Eelam Tamils in Sri Lanka

Establishing Centralized Documentation Systems
Maximizing International Human Rights Mechanisms
Building Unity Among Tamil Organizations
Strategic International Advocacy Framework

Tamil
Unity

Eelam Tamil Human Rights Coalition

Wimalanath Navaratnam
Human Rights Activist
Administrative Officer – ABC Tamil Oli (ECOSOC)

📍 Brampton, Ontario, Canada
🔗 viliththeluthamilaaengilsh.blogspot.com
📧 tamilolicanada@gmail.com

BREAKING THE SILENCE: Documenting Human Rights Violations and Engaging International Accountability Mechanisms