We are writing to bring your attention to a grave violation of fundamental rights in Sri Lanka, and we urge your intervention in the case of comedian Nathasha Edirisooriya, who was recently arrested (May 27th, 2023) in Sri Lanka.

Nathasha, a young Sri Lankan comedian known for her satirical commentary, was arrested in the middle of the night on May 27th, 2023, for making statements that were perceived as sensitive against Buddhism. She has been arrested under the controversial International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights Act, No 56 of 2007 (ICCPR Act). This is not the first time Sri Lankan law enforcement has arbitrarily enforced the provisions of the ICCPR Act to target opposing voices, ethnic minorities, and groups in the name of prohibiting national, racial, and religious hatred. Nor is this the first time an individual has been arrested for speech that was allegedly offensive to Buddhism, the country's dominant religion. As many national and international human rights organizations, including yours, have repeatedly pointed out, the ICCPR Act has been used as a political tool to silence opposing voices and has been selectively applied to cater to the majority's aspirations to protect the country's dominant faith. Ironically, the law has mutated into an instrument that seriously oversteps the very human rights it was meant to advance.

This arrest is a blatant infringement of her fundamental rights, particularly the right to freedom of expression, which is protected under numerous international human rights treaties and conventions, not to mention the Constitution of Sri Lanka. Freedom of expression is a fundamental pillar of any democratic society. It encompasses the right to express opinions, ideas, and beliefs without fear of persecution or censorship. In the case of Nathasha Edirisooriya, her arrest not only stifles her creativity and artistic expression but also sends a chilling message to others who may wish to exercise their right to free speech in Sri Lanka.

In light of this, we urge everyone to take immediate action and employ all available means to advocate for the release of Nathasha and to ensure that her rights are protected. We kindly request everyone capable to:

1. Issue a public statement expressing concern over the arrest of Nathasha Edirisooriya and calling for her immediate and unconditional release.
2. Engage with relevant Sri Lankan authorities, including government officials and law enforcement agencies, to emphasize the importance of upholding freedom of expression and to urge them to drop all charges against Nathasha.
3. Conduct an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding Nathasha's arrest and treatment while in custody to ascertain whether her rights were violated during the process.
4. Mobilize international pressure by reaching out to diplomatic missions and encouraging them to raise this issue with the Sri Lankan government, highlighting the importance of protecting freedom of expression.
5. Monitor the case closely and provide any necessary legal assistance or support to Nathasha and her legal team.

By taking these steps, you can play a crucial role in ensuring justice, safeguarding human rights, and sending a strong message to Sri Lanka that the international community will not tolerate the suppression of free speech or the persecution of individuals for expressing their opinions.

We stand ready to support your efforts in any way I can, including spreading awareness through social media or participating in advocacy campaigns.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. Your swift and decisive action can make a significant difference in upholding the principles of freedom of expression and human rights in Sri Lanka.