09th August 2024 23:05:43 Hours
In line with the annual training programme of the Office of the Chief of Defence Staff (OCDS), a workshop on ‘The Role of Armed Forces in Civil Unrest’ successfully conducted on 08th August 2024 at the Auditorium of the Regimental Centre, Sri Lanka Armoured Corps, Colombo.
Under the visionary direction and guidance of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Shavendra Silva WWV RWP RSP VSV USP ndc psc MPhil, the timely workshop was conducted for 60 senior officers from the Sri Lanka Army, Navy, Air Force, and Police.
This training programme was organised with the foremost intention of enhancing the knowledge of the role of the military and Police officers during a civil unrest.
Commencing the workshop, Major General B G S Fernando USP Hdmc psc, Director of Training and Doctrine at the OCDS, delivered the opening remarks. While introducing the day’s lecturer he emphasized the significance of the topic and underscored that the workshop's objective was to empower officers of the Tri-Services and Police to discharge their duties effectively and efficiently during civil unrest, all within the bounds of locally and internationally accepted legal frameworks.
During the course of the workshop, the distinguished lecturer, Professor A. Sarveswaran from the Department of Private and Comparative Law, Faculty of Law, University of Colombo, generously shared his extensive expertise in the subject. He provided a comprehensive analysis of the various aspects surrounding the involvement of armed forces in civil unrest situations, delving into historical events, legal frameworks, ethical considerations, and lessons learned. His insightful presentation thoughtfully connected these elements to current contexts, offering a deep understanding of the complexities involved.
Professor A. Sarveswaran currently serves as a Senior Lecturer at the Faculty of Law, University of Colombo. He possesses extensive theoretical and practical experience in the subject matter, acquired through his service in various capacities throughout his distinguished academic career.