Public Interest Litigation at the Centre for Justice (CfJ)
At the Centre for Justice (CfJ), we are dedicated to advancing the fundamental rights of all Sri Lankans through the power of public interest litigation (PIL). PIL is a vital tool for ensuring that justice is accessible to all, particularly for marginalized communities and individuals whose rights may otherwise be overlooked or ignored by the state. Our organization works tirelessly to address injustices and advocate for systemic change that protects the rights and welfare of the public.
What is Public Interest Litigation?
Public Interest Litigation is a legal mechanism that allows individuals or organizations to file cases in court to protect and promote public rights, even if they are not directly affected by the issue at hand. It empowers ordinary citizens and civil society organizations to hold the government and state institutions accountable for their actions or inactions. PIL is often used to challenge violations of constitutional rights, environmental issues, human rights abuses, and access to basic public services, among other issues.
Our Role in Public Interest Litigation
At CfJ, we use PIL to address a wide range of human rights and public policy concerns. Through strategic litigation, we seek to:
- Protect Fundamental Rights: We work to safeguard the fundamental rights of citizens as enshrined in the Constitution of Sri Lanka and international human rights law. This includes advocating for the right to education, health, a clean environment, and freedom from discrimination.
- Ensure Accountability: Through PIL, we challenge the failure of state agencies to fulfill their constitutional duties. We aim to compel government bodies to take action on issues affecting public welfare, such as infrastructure, public health, and environmental protection.
- Empower Citizens: Public interest litigation empowers individuals and communities to challenge injustices and claim their rights, ensuring that justice is not just for the privileged few but for all. We actively engage with the public to raise awareness of their legal rights and provide support in navigating the legal process.
Key Cases and Achievements
- Human Rights Protection: Our organization has filed landmark writ applications, ensuring that the rights of citizens are upheld in the face of state negligence. For instance, we have filed applications addressing issues such as environmental degradation, improper waste management, and human-elephant conflict in Sri Lanka. Through these cases, we have successfully prompted state action and drawn attention to key issues impacting public health and safety.
- Advocacy for the Marginalized: CfJ has consistently advocated for the most vulnerable members of society, including those facing discrimination, economic disadvantage, or lack of access to essential services like education, health care, and housing. Our PIL efforts ensure that the government meets its obligations to protect the rights of these communities.
- Challenging State Inaction: We have challenged the failure of state agencies to maintain basic public infrastructure, such as roads and health services, which impacts the day-to-day lives of citizens. Through PIL, we have successfully pushed for better governance and improved service delivery for the public.
The Impact of Our Work
Through public interest litigation, CfJ has contributed to a broader understanding of the importance of legal recourse in securing public rights. Our cases not only help address specific issues but also raise public awareness and encourage civic engagement in the fight for justice. We have empowered citizens to believe in their ability to make a difference, using the courts as a platform to demand change.
Join Us in Advocating for Justice
Public interest litigation is a powerful tool for social change, but it requires collective effort. CfJ invites you to join us in advocating for the rights of every citizen. Whether through supporting our legal cases, raising awareness of critical issues, or contributing to our work, your involvement makes a difference. Together, we can build a more just and equitable Sri Lanka where the rights of all citizens are protected and upheld.