Author: Mytili Bala

Colombo, Human Rights, justice, Politics and Governance, Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA)

Unpacking Two Core Shortcomings of the ATA

For forty years, human rights activists have demanded repeal of the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) of 1979, which the state has used to terrorize minorities with impunity. Ultimately the threat of…

Mytili Bala on 04/17/202304/20/2023

Colombo, Human Rights, Peace and Conflict, Politics and Governance, Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA)

PTA Must Be Repealed

Another year, another pre-Geneva scramble. At the brink of economic collapse and desperate to maintain GSP+ trade status with the EU, the Sri Lankan government finally feels the heat. Enough, that is,…

Mytili Bala on 02/01/202209/28/2022

Colombo, Elections, International, International Relations, Politics and Governance

What Trump’s Win Teaches Sri Lanka

Photograph from NBC News Donald Trump’s surprising electoral victory last week gives us Americans a lot to think about. One takeaway is particularly relevant for Sri Lanka. Over the last eight years,…

Mytili Bala on 11/15/201611/15/2016

Colombo, Human Rights, Jaffna, Peace and Conflict, Politics and Governance, Post-War

6 Reasons Why Accountability in Sri Lanka Matters

Sri Lanka’s 26-year civil war ended six years ago amidst allegations of war crimes, crimes against humanity, and other serious abuses by both government and rebel forces. In 2011, a U.N. panel…

Mytili Bala on 05/20/201505/20/2015