Sri Lanka Coast Guard Showcasing Maritime Excellence at Colombo University’s Undergraduate Legal Research Conference 2024 Exhibition Stalls

The Sri Lanka Coast Guard (SLCG) made a powerful impact at the Exhibition Stalls of Undergraduate Legal Research Conference 2024, organized by the Faculty of Law, University of Colombo. This pioneering event served as a bridge between legal undergraduates, legal academia, legal experts and law enforcement officials, fostering meaningful dialogue on maritime law and governance.

At the exhibition, the SLCG highlighted its vital role in maritime governance, emphasizing its core pillars of maritime law enforcement, environmental protection, maritime safety, and international cooperation. Attendees gained valuable insights into the SLCG’s mandate, and the essential role it plays in safeguarding Sri Lanka’s maritime domain. The Coast Guard’s participation stood out as a unique opportunity to promote legal awareness among future legal professionals. By showcasing its diverse tasks and responsibilities, the SLCG demonstrated the importance of maritime law enforcement in addressing key challenges such as illegal fishing, drug trafficking, and irregular migration.

The Sri Lanka Coast Guard’s exhibition stall was a vibrant showcase of its multifaceted contributions. The display featured lifesaving equipment, rescue techniques, and first aid demonstrations, highlighting the vital services provided by the SLCG in ensuring public safety. Visitors also explored the Turtle Conservation Project, gaining insights into the different species and the Coast Guard’s ongoing conservation efforts. Moreover, the stall exhibited oil spill response equipment, complemented by live demonstrations of use of dispersant, and cleanup techniques, showcasing the SLCG’s commitment to protecting marine ecosystems and responding to environmental emergencies effectively.

A major highlight of the SLCG’s exhibition was its discussion with interested legal professional on the intersection of international maritime conventions and domestic laws, offering a comprehensive view of how the Coast Guard enforces these legal frameworks in Sri Lankan waters. The SLCG also addressed existing gaps in maritime law, sparking conversations on the need for legislative enhancements to combat emerging threats effectively. By sharing its expertise and professionalism, the Coast Guard inspired participants to contribute to the development of maritime laws and policies.

As per official records, the dignitaries who visited the exhibition stall included Emeritus Prof. G.L. Peiris; Hon. Justice Bandhula Karunaratne; the Acting Inspector General of Police, Priyantha Weerasooriya; Hon. President of the Court of Appeal of Sri Lanka, Justice L.T.B. Dehideniya; Chairman of the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka, Mr. Viraj Dayarathna, PC; Solicitor General of the Attorney General's Department, Mr. Kalinga Indatissa, PC; Former President of the Bar Association of Sri Lanka, Prof. Sampath Punchihewa; Dean of the Faculty of Law, Prof. Indira Nanayakkara; Former Dean of the Faculty of Law; and undergraduates representing the Faculty of Law, University of Colombo, the Department of Law, University of Jaffna, the Department of Legal Studies, Open University of Sri Lanka, Sri Lanka Law College, and the Department of Law, University of Peradeniya.

The SLCG’s participation not only enhanced its visibility but also strengthened its ties with the academic community. This engagement at the Undergraduate Legal Research Conference 2024 is a testament to its dedication to advancing Sri Lanka’s maritime governance and security.