A/HRC/11/4 page 7 of all and to reach out to the most marginalized and disadvantaged, who are the most likely to see their rights violated. The experts called on all States to sign and ratify the instrument swiftly, so as to secure a speedy entry into force and wide application. 15. On 9 February 2009, the Special Rapporteur, together with 10 other independent experts, issued a press statement expressing their deep concern about the deteriorating human rights situation in Sri Lanka, particularly the shrinking space for critical voices and the fear of reprisals against victims and witnesses. The experts noted that impunity for human rights violations continues unabated throughout the country with a climate of fear and intimidation reigning over those defending human rights, especially over journalists and lawyers. The experts also noted the serious and fatal aggression against journalists and the media as now a common occurrence as witnessed in the killing of the journalist Lasantha Wickremetunga and attacks on major media outlets. The experts shared the deep concern of the High Commissioner for Human Rights over the rapidly deteriorating conditions facing those civilians and the significant number of civilian casualties. They also deplored the restrictions on humanitarian access to conflict areas which exacerbate the ongoing serious violations of the most basic economic and social rights. The experts strongly urged the Government of Sri Lanka to immediately take measures to ensure that effective remedial action can be pursued in support of the victims of human rights abuses and their families. They also highlighted that thorough reforms of the general system of governance are needed to prevent the recurrence of further serious human rights violations. The experts called for an immediate end to impunity and to refrain from any reprisals. To strengthen the rule of law and to help ensure the safety and protection of the human rights of all persons in Sri Lanka, the experts noted that they would continue to extend their offer of assistance to the Government. C. Participation in meetings and seminars 16. From 2 to 3 October 2008, the Special Rapporteur participated in the “Expert seminar on the links between articles 19 and 20 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights: Freedom of expression and advocacy of religious hatred that constitutes incitement to discrimination, hostility or violence”.2 The seminar was organized by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and was attended by over 200 observers, including representatives of Governments, other United Nations agencies, regional organizations, the media and non-governmental organizations. The aim of the event was to clarify the links between articles 19 and 20 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights on freedom of expression and advocacy of religious hatred that constitutes incitement to discrimination, hostility or violence. The Special Rapporteur presented a paper on the differences and links between permissible limitations under article 19, paragraph 3, in particular when it comes to restrictions aimed at protecting the rights of others, and States’ obligations under article 20 of the Covenant. The Special Rapporteur noted through his participation in the event the importance of resolving tensions based on genuine cultural or religious differences through 2 Details of the event can be viewed at www2.ohchr.org/english/issues/opinion/articles1920_iccpr/.