Abstract:
Ancient rulers respected the ‘laws of war’ ensuring protection, treatment and wellbeing of
captured combatants and people. Soldiers fought wars while farmers sowing their paddy
fields. During the 2nd century BC King Dutugamunu and King Elara decided to fight each
other to decide the victory of war, preventing suffering of mankind. Even after the death
of King Elara, King Dutugamunu had given due respect to King Elara. But due to the
complicity of the present day operations and weapon system human rights and
humanitarian law violations have increased.
The last few years saw internationally significant progress towards an international
system of justice available to prosecute the war crimes and human rights violations.
United Nations imposed economical sanctions on countries, which violate human rights
and international humanitarian law. The international community has also shown
renewed willingness to deploy troops to stop crimes against humanity.
Due to present ongoing conflict, human rights and humanitarian law violations by Sri
Lankan Army was highlighted among international community. In the light of rapid
globalisation, no country could withstand as single entity. In this context it is worthwhile
to study and analyse how this problem could be overcome.
