Human Rights Watch February 20, 2009

War on the Displaced: Sri Lankan Army and LTTE Abuses against Civilians in the Vanni

Source: Human Rights Watch

Summary

Documents serious violations by both the Sri Lankan military and the LTTE against civilian populations in the Vanni region during the final phase of the civil war, including indiscriminate attacks on civilians and restrictions on humanitarian access.

Key Findings

  • Indiscriminate artillery and aerial attacks on civilian areas
  • Use of civilians as human shields
  • Obstruction of humanitarian aid
  • Forced recruitment including of children