The previous government, in March 2011, issued instructions to all Sri Lankan missions abroad to refrain from issuing passports to those who sought asylum due to political persecution.

This circular constituted a serious violation of our citizen’s rights under the constitution and under the many human rights conventions to which Sri Lanka has become a party over the years.

It has also caused immense hardship and difficulty to many Sri Lankans who were forced to leave the country as a result of their struggle against authoritarian rule.

The Government of Sri Lanka has renewed its commitment to upholding citizen’s rights and the rule of law. Freedom of movement and impartial treatment of our citizens, irrespective of their political beliefs, will be secured for all our citizens.

Furthermore, as a result of the good governance and reconciliation efforts of the current government, many Sri Lankans living abroad have expressed an interest in visiting and investing in Sri Lanka. Ending this restrictive practice will further enable our citizens overseas to visit and return to Sri Lanka and thereby contribute to the country’s development and reconciliation process.

Therefore, the Government has directed the Controller-General, Department ‎of Immigration and Emigration, to issue a circular ending this draconian practice and restore the procedure followed since Independence of enabling every Sri Lankan citizen living abroad to obtain a passport, the ministry statement adds.