The United States Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Julie Chung, has issued a stern call to action regarding two contentious pieces of legislation in the country. Ambassador Chung's remarks focused on Sri Lanka's Online Safety Bill and its anti-terrorism legislation, urging the government to prioritize fundamental freedoms and align its laws with international standards.

Ambassador Julie Chung emphasized the critical need for the Sri Lankan government to seek input from diverse stakeholders as it deliberates the Online Safety Bill. She underscored the importance of involving the tech sector, civil society, and experts in the legislative process to strike a balance between online safety and the preservation of freedom of expression. The Ambassador unequivocally stated that freedom of expression is a fundamental right that must be safeguarded without compromise.

The Online Safety Bill has been a subject of significant debate in Sri Lanka, with concerns raised about its potential impact on free speech and online privacy. Ambassador Chung's call for inclusivity and international best practices echoes the sentiments of many who have been advocating for a more balanced approach to addressing harmful online content.

Furthermore, Ambassador Chung addressed Sri Lanka's anti-terrorism legislation, emphasizing the importance of revising it in alignment with international standards and practices observed in democratic nations. She called on the Sri Lankan government to honor its pledge to revise this legislation, stressing that Sri Lankans deserve both security and fundamental freedoms.

The Ambassador's remarks highlight the delicate balance that countries must strike between security concerns and upholding individual liberties. Effective legislation, in her view, should enable lawful freedom of assembly while empowering law enforcement to address threats effectively.