Türk highlighted the introduction of several new laws, including the Online Safety Act, Anti-Terrorism Bill, Electronic Media Broadcasting Authority Bill and NGO Supervision and Registration Bill.

"These laws, if enacted, could grant extensive powers to the executive, security forces, and severely restrict freedoms of assembly, association and expression," he said.

Moreover, Türk emphasized the ongoing economic crisis in Sri Lanka, with poverty levels soaring to an estimated 27.9% and a significant decline in household incomes.