FINANCIAL CHRONICLE — Sri Lanka is collaborating with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to establish a unified national database for missing persons, which aims to address the long-standing fragmentation in state records, according to Justice Minister Harshana Nanayakkara.
Speaking in parliament, Nanayakkara emphasized that the absence of a credible and consolidated database has posed significant challenges, with information currently dispersed across various agencies. “The government accepts that the absence of a fully credible National Consolidated database has been a long-standing challenge,” he stated, highlighting that data is presently divided among the Office on Missing Persons (OMP), the Human Rights Commission, and several previous ad hoc commissions.
The initiative seeks to enhance transparency in a process that has often faced criticism from families of the disappeared due to its lack of clarity. Nanayakkara pointed out that the existing fragmentation has obstructed the creation of a single, unified record.
To address this issue, the OMP has undertaken several steps. Initially, it has initiated Data Consolidation, where information from various sources has been entered into a temporary database to preserve existing records. Furthermore, the OMP is working on implementing a “Long-term system,” for which a formal proposal for a Comprehensive Database Management System has been developed. The minister also mentioned that the government plans to seek “International support” from global partners to provide technical expertise.
Nanayakkara confirmed that a requirement identification process is currently underway involving relevant stakeholders, with the objective of ensuring that the new system adheres to humanitarian, legal, and accountability standards.
In parallel with the development of the database, the OMP is undergoing a revamp to enhance its data collection capabilities. This includes improved coordination with law enforcement and civil registries, as well as the introduction of digital platforms to enhance accuracy.
(Colombo/Mar21/2026)
