Gov’t solely responsible for GSP+ loss – NGO

The European Union’s decision to revoke Sri Lanka’s Generalized System of Preferences Plus (GSP+) status has been a major blow to the country’s economy. The GSP+ status allowed Sri Lanka to export goods to the EU at reduced tariffs, giving the country a competitive advantage in the global market. However, the loss of this status has been attributed to the government’s failure to address human rights violations and uphold democratic values.

According to a recent report by a leading NGO, the government is solely responsible for the loss of GSP+ status. The report highlights the government’s failure to address issues such as torture, enforced disappearances, and freedom of expression. The report also notes that the government has failed to implement the recommendations of the UN Human Rights Council, which called for accountability for war crimes committed during the country’s civil war.

The loss of GSP+ status has had a significant impact on Sri Lanka’s economy, particularly on the garment industry, which accounts for a significant portion of the country’s exports. The industry has been hit hard by the loss of GSP+ status, with many factories closing down and thousands of workers losing their jobs.

The government’s response to the loss of GSP+ status has been inadequate, with officials blaming the EU for the decision. However, the NGO report argues that the government should take responsibility for its failure to address human rights violations and uphold democratic values.

The report also calls on the government to take immediate action to address the issues that led to the loss of GSP+ status. This includes implementing the recommendations of the UN Human Rights Council, ensuring accountability for war crimes, and protecting the rights of all citizens.

In conclusion, the loss of GSP+ status is a wake-up call for the Sri Lankan government to address human rights violations and uphold democratic values. The government must take responsibility for its failure to do so and take immediate action to address these issues. Failure to do so will only lead to further economic and social consequences for the country.