Sri Lanka's delegation presented its initial national report on disability rights protections to the UN Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in Geneva, highlighting increased funding and legislative reforms.
Sri Lanka submitted its first national report under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities during the 35th session of the UN Committee in Geneva on 14 August 2026. Leading the delegation, Minister of Rural Development, Social Security, and Community Empowerment Dr. Upali Pannilage emphasized that Sri Lanka, as a party to all nine core human rights conventions, has maintained consistent engagement with UN human rights mechanisms.
The government outlined its commitment to disability inclusion through the presidential vision of "Thriving Nation – A Beautiful Life," which incorporates an "Unimpaired Social Life" framework designed to ensure persons with disabilities can live with dignity and participate fully in society. Pannilage highlighted a significant milestone with the election of Sugath Wasantha de Silva as the first person with a disability elected to Parliament, where he chairs the Parliamentary Caucus for Persons with Disabilities.
Financial commitment to disability services has expanded substantially, with budgetary allocations increasing from approximately Rs. 48 billion in 2022 to nearly Rs. 81 billion in 2026. The government is advancing several legislative initiatives, including a new Protection of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Bill aligned with international standards, proposed Sign Language legislation, and the establishment of an Independent Commission on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
Multiple government ministries contribute to disability inclusion efforts through sector-specific programs in health, education, labor, and transport. The UN Committee responded positively to Sri Lanka's presentation, commending the country's constructive engagement and welcoming its legislative, policy, and institutional frameworks. Sri Lanka ratified the disability rights convention in 2016 and has since worked to align national measures with international obligations.
