Message on Tamil Genocide

The following message was sent by Martyn Day MSP for the 17th Mulivaikkal, remembering Tamil Genocide. The business of setting up my constituency office and onboarding staff has prevented my physical attendance.

I must apologise for not being with you in person, but I send my warmest wishes for today’s event.

Today I join you in remembering the victims of Mullivaikkal and stand with the Tamil people in their continuing call for truth, justice and accountability.

The suffering of the Tamil people must never be forgotten, denied or erased. We remember those who were killed, the families still searching for the disappeared, and all those who continue to live with the trauma of what happened.

The world must recognise the Tamil genocide and act on the need for justice. There must be an international route to accountability, an end to impunity, respect for human rights, and recognition of the Tamil people’s right to self-determination.

That also means recognising the right of displaced Tamil people to return to their homes, live in dignity, and rebuild their communities in their traditional homeland. More than 200,000 Tamils are estimated to have been displaced within Sri Lanka, and around 100,000 Tamils who fled to India remain stateless or without secure status. Their right to return, resettle safely, and live with full political and human rights must be part of any just and lasting settlement.

The UK has a responsibility to play an active role: pressing for international justice, supporting a lasting political settlement, and using its diplomatic influence to ensure Sri Lanka is held to account.

Remembrance means honouring those who were lost, standing with those still seeking answers, and keeping the call for justice and accountability alive.

I send my solidarity to all those gathering in London and across the world today.

We remember. We stand for justice. We uphold human rights. We will not be silent.