The Department of Christian and Islamic Civilizations, University of Jaffna, hosted a consultation meeting with Mr. Florian Von Koenig, Head of CTA Advisory and RCRC Missing Persons Center, and Ms. Adriana Caicedo Trujillo, CTA Structural Support Lead, of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) on 1 October 2026.
The consultation formed part of the Department’s ongoing engagement with the ICRC on the issue of missing persons in Sri Lanka and the needs of their families. The meeting brought together academic staff and students who actively participated in a rich and meaningful discussion.
The deliberations focused on the impact of missing persons on families and communities, the challenges faced by affected families, the role of religious rituals and cultural practices in coping with loss and uncertainty, and the contribution that religious leaders, educational institutions, civil society organisations, and community actors can make in supporting families.
Participants shared personal experiences and professional insights, highlighting the humanitarian, social, cultural, and religious dimensions of the issue. Valuable perspectives were also contributed by members of the Department of Sanskrit regarding the challenges associated with performing religious rites and memorial practices in situations where the fate of missing persons remains uncertain.
Drawing on experiences from Bosnia and Colombia, the ICRC delegates reflected on how different religious communities and institutions have supported families of missing persons through processes of truth-seeking, remembrance, healing, and reconciliation.
The meeting provided an important platform for dialogue and mutual learning, and reaffirmed the significant role that religious traditions, cultural practices, and community-based initiatives can play in promoting truth, dignity, healing, and hope for families living with uncertainty.
The Department expresses its sincere appreciation to the ICRC delegation, staff members, and students whose active participation contributed to the success of this meaningful consultation.
