Colombo, Sri Lanka, Oct. 28 -- Ministry of Defence and Urban Development issued the following news release:
The Institute of National Security Studies (INSS), under the Ministry of Defence, conducted a Threat Lens session on "Combatting Human Trafficking in Sri Lanka: National Responses, Legal and Policy Frameworks, and International Cooperation" on 28 October 2026 at the INSS Conference Hall, with participants also joining online.
The programme brought together officers of the Tri-Services, researchers, and staff members to discuss human trafficking as a significant national security and humanitarian concern. The session commenced with a welcome speech by Major General Ranjan Wijedasa (Retd), Director General of INSS, who welcomed the participants and introduced the two distinguished resource persons.
The first presentation was delivered by Mrs. Priyangani Hewarathna, Senior Assistant Secretary, Ministry of Defence, who discussed the fundamentals of human trafficking, national and international legal and policy frameworks, Sri Lanka's National Counter-Trafficking Strategy, institutional responsibilities, key challenges, and the way forward. Her presentation highlighted the importance of effective national mechanisms and institutional coordination in addressing human trafficking.
The second presentation was delivered by Ms. Minoli P. Don, Head of the Migrant Assistance and Protection Unit of the International Organization for Migration (IOM). She discussed the role of IOM in supporting Sri Lanka's counter-trafficking response, with particular emphasis on strengthening the identification, protection, and referral of trafficking victims. Her presentation underscored the importance of collaboration between national institutions and international partners in strengthening victim protection and counter-trafficking efforts.
The presentations and subsequent discussions provided participants with valuable insights into Sri Lanka's legal and policy responses, institutional responsibilities, and opportunities for enhanced national and international cooperation. The session also highlighted the importance of a coordinated approach to preventing human trafficking and protecting the rights and dignity of victims.
At the conclusion of the programme, Commander SL Wickramasinghe, Military Research Officer (Navy), Institute of National Security Studies, delivered the vote of thanks, expressing sincere appreciation to both resource persons for sharing their knowledge and expertise. He also acknowledged the participation and contributions of the Tri-Services officers, researchers, and staff members who contributed to the success of the programme.
Courtesy : www.inss.lk
Disclaimer: Curated by HT Syndication.
