Trade Unions and Civil Society Groups Oppose Proposed Anti-Terrorism Legislation in Sri Lanka

Trade unions and civil society organisations have voiced strong opposition to the proposed Protection of the State from Terrorism Act, warning that it could undermine fundamental rights, freedom of expression and democratic freedoms in Sri Lanka.

The concerns were raised at a media briefing organised by the Trade Union and Mass Organisations Collective at the Teachers’ Centre in Fort, Colombo, on October 20, 2026.

Lasantha Kumara, representing the Independent Dock Workers’ Union at the Colombo Dockyard, questioned why a government that had previously joined public struggles against oppressive legislation was now seeking to introduce similar laws.

He criticised the government for pursuing what he described as hypocritical politics and said trade unions, labour leaders and student movements had supported the movement that brought the government to power. He said opposition to the proposed legislation would begin immediately and called for a renewed people’s movement against the government’s actions.

Meanwhile, Kapila Perera, Chairman of the National Federation of Professionals, warned that the proposed anti-terrorism legislation, alongside a proposed law to regulate non-governmental organisations (NGOs), could restrict civil society activities.

Perera expressed concern that the legislation could affect freedom of speech, peaceful assembly and media freedom. He warned that even statements made during public discussions could potentially be treated as supporting terrorism under the proposed law.

He questioned the need for new legislation, arguing that the country’s 30-year conflict had not been ended through such laws alone. He accused the government of seeking to maintain its power through repressive measures and called on trade unions, professionals and members of civil society to oppose the proposals before they were enacted.

Perera also criticised the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP), saying it had opposed such legislation while in opposition but was now associated with efforts to introduce new laws of this nature.

Diwakara Athugala, Secretary of the Insurance General Employees’ Union, also condemned the proposed legislation, alleging that it could be used to suppress trade unions and workers’ rights.

He argued that the proposed laws could restrict workers’ ability to organise and stand up for their interests. He further raised concerns about potentially extended detention orders and police detention powers.

Athugala said the government was attempting to introduce restrictive legislation in response to growing public opposition and urged workers and civil society groups to resist measures that could undermine their rights.

The speakers called on trade unions, professional organisations and the wider public to unite against the proposed legislation, warning that its potential impact on civil liberties and democratic freedoms required urgent public attention.