Book Launching Ceremony: “The Role of Law in Redressing Victims of Personal Injury in Sri Lanka” – Authored by Dr Udapadie Liyanage
The Faculty of Law hosted the launch of “The Role of Law in Redressing Victims of Personal Injury in Sri Lanka”, authored by Dr Udapadie Liyanage, Head of the Department of Private and Comparative Law, on 23rd of July 2025 at the Auditorium of the Faculty premises. The event brought together members of the judiciary, academics, policymakers, students and other members of the wider legal community to discuss the book’s critical examination of Sri Lanka’s personal injury compensation framework and its call for victim-friendly legal reforms. The keynote address was delivered by Hon. Justice Dr. Saleem Marsoof, PC, who commended the author’s timely contribution to a subject of both legal and social significance.
The book, which explores the inadequacies of Roman Dutch Law’s existing fault-based system and proposes a shift towards a more efficient, no-fault compensation regime, has already sparked important conversations about reforming Sri Lanka’s legal and institutional response to personal injuries. By combining comparative legal analysis with empirical insights from victims and experts, Dr. Liyanage’s work highlights the urgent need for a victim-friendly, socially responsible framework that prioritises rehabilitation and access to justice.
The launch was graced by Professor Indika Mahesh Karunathilake, Vice Chancellor of the University, as the Guest of Honour, alongside Professor Sampath Punchihewa, Dean of the Faculty of Law, who delivered the welcome address. Professor Rose Wijeyesekera, Chair Professor of the Department of Private & Comparative Law, also addressed this esteemed gathering. The event saw the participation of members of the judiciary, including Supreme Court Judges; Hon. Justice Thurairaja PC, Hon. Justice Arjuna Obeysekere, and Hon. Justice Kumuduni Wickremasinghe, as well as several respected judges of the Court of Appeal. Distinguished guests such as Emeritus Professor GL Peiris and Mr Rajeev Amarasuriya, President of the Bar Association of Sri Lanka, also joined academics and faculty staff in celebrating the book’s launch.
