HRPO’s Commitment to Strengthening International Cooperation for the Protection of Human Rights in the Digital Age
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The Human Rights Protection Organization (HRPO), an independent civil society organization dedicated to promoting and protecting human rights, the rule of law, democracy, and good governance in Sri Lanka, considers it a great honour to have participated in the international dialogue organized by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), representing the Human Rights Protection Organization.
The meeting provided an important platform for exchanging views on emerging global issues relating to the protection of human rights in the digital era, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), algorithmic bias, privacy, data protection, freedom of expression, equality before the law, and the broader implications of digital transformation on fundamental rights and freedoms.
HRPO firmly believes that the protection of fundamental rights must always be guided by the Constitution of Sri Lanka, the rule of law, and internationally recognized human rights standards. At the same time, we recognize that national security, public safety, and social stability are essential democratic values that must be safeguarded in accordance with the law and with full respect for human dignity.
Our organization reaffirms its readiness to extend constructive cooperation to the democratically elected Government of Sri Lanka in implementing lawful policies, reforms, and initiatives that promote the public interest, strengthen democratic governance, and contribute to sustainable national development.
At the same time, HRPO remains committed to fulfilling its independent responsibility to stand for the protection of individuals and communities whose fundamental rights may be affected, always acting within the framework of the law and guided by the principles of justice, transparency, accountability, impartiality, and respect for human dignity.
When representing Sri Lanka in international forums, HRPO believes that it is essential to present a balanced and responsible perspective by acknowledging not only the country’s challenges but also its progress, strengths, and opportunities for further development through international cooperation and constructive engagement. Our objective is to safeguard Sri Lanka’s international reputation while promoting human rights, democratic values, sustainable development, and meaningful global partnerships.
Looking ahead, HRPO intends to organize a series of awareness programmes, seminars, workshops, and professional training initiatives throughout Sri Lanka focusing on human rights in the digital age, the ethical and responsible use of Artificial Intelligence, digital governance, privacy protection, cybersecurity, data security, and the promotion of responsible technological innovation.
We firmly believe that the protection of human rights, national security, the rule of law, democratic governance, and economic development are complementary principles that reinforce one another rather than compete with each other. Accordingly, HRPO will continue to work collaboratively with the Government of Sri Lanka, public institutions, civil society organizations, the media, the private sector, academia, and the general public to build a more just, secure, inclusive, and prosperous Sri Lanka.
HRPO remains committed to strengthening international cooperation, promoting dialogue, supporting evidence-based policymaking, and contributing to a future where technological advancement is aligned with human dignity, equality, justice, and the universal protection of human rights.
M. M. Shafaan
Executive Director
Human Rights Protection Organization (HRPO)
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