Colombo: Sri Lanka has declared its intent to formally demand compensation from the United Kingdom for colonial-era damages, theft of assets, loss of lives, and the return of priceless cultural artefacts looted during British rule.
Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath made the announcement in Parliament on Friday, responding to a query from Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa on whether Colombo would follow African nations in seeking reparations.
Herath outlined that Sri Lanka would pursue claims for property destruction, stolen heritage, and human losses spanning over 150 years of British occupation (1796–1948). Among the key artefacts targeted for repatriation are the historic Throne of the Kandyan Kings, royal crowns, swords, and treasures seized from the last independent Kandyan Kingdom. A notable item is an eighth-century gold-leaf-covered bronze statue of the Buddhist goddess Tara, currently displayed in the British Museum’s Asian Gallery after being unearthed near Trincomalee.
The minister highlighted Sri Lanka’s successful track record with other former colonial powers: Portugal agreed to return looted items following firm demands, while the Netherlands has repatriated artefacts on multiple occasions, including a diamond-encrusted sword and ceremonial cannon from the Kandyan era. Some pieces remain in UK possession, such as cannons at Windsor Castle.
Herath stressed a systematic diplomatic approach to restitution, amid growing global momentum for addressing colonial legacies. No specific compensation figure was mentioned, and the UK’s response is awaited. Critics note that many artefacts sit in private collections, complicating recovery efforts.
This bold step revives debates on historical justice, even as Sri Lanka grapples with contemporary economic challenges.