Australia supports safe resettlement of IDPs as a crucial step in national reconciliation

Australia this week announced new funding of A$20 million (approximately Rs 2 billion) to provide cash-for-work grants for displaced families being resettled in northern Sri Lanka.

The grant funding is being provided through the World Bank and Asian Development Bank projects approved by the Sri Lankan Government to support its resettlement and reconstruction plans in the north.   

Announcing the new funds, Australia’s Foreign Minister, Mr Stephen Smith MP, told the Australian Parliament on 17 March that Australia had been closely observing the humanitarian situation in Sri Lanka, including the situation of civilians displaced in the final stages of the conflict.  Underlining the importance of stabilisation and resettlement of internally displaced civilians within Sri Lanka, the Minister said these programs were crucial both for humanitarian reasons and for laying the foundations for lasting peace.  

Mr Smith said Australia had also pledged up to $20 million (approximately Rs 2 billion) for demining over the next five years to support the Government’s effort to ensure all of the north is made safe for resettlement.  Australia is also funding projects to repair and rebuild housing in the north.  

Addressing Parliament, Mr Smith spoke about the need for forward movement in Sri Lanka to forge an enduring political settlement for all Sri Lankans.  Noting that this would come only after a process of political reform and rapprochement between all parties and communities, the Minister said that the solution must come from within Sri Lanka itself.  

The Minister welcomed President Rajapaksa’s pledge to govern for all Sri Lankans, to build on the peace already achieved and move forward on a reconciliation program. He noted that others had also indicated a willingness to explore options for reconciliation and long term stability in Sri Lanka.  He encouraged all political voices in Sri Lanka to engage together in a sincere process to achieve lasting political reconciliation.  A strong civil society and a free media would enhance this process.  

Mr Smith said Australia would continue to be committed to working with Sri Lanka and with community groups inside Sri Lanka to help build a peaceful and prosperous future for all.