Peace Talks: Tamileelam – Sri Lanka
Throughout decades of conflict, multiple rounds of peace negotiations took place between the Tamil Eelam leadership and the Sri Lankan government. Each attempt represented a genuine effort to find a peaceful political solution to the Tamil question — yet every round of talks ultimately collapsed, primarily due to the Sri Lankan government's failure to honour agreements and its continued military aggression against the Tamil people.
These peace talks stand as historical evidence that the Tamil leadership consistently pursued a negotiated solution, while the Sri Lankan state repeatedly chose war over peace.
Overview of Peace Talks
1985 – Thimbu, Bhutan
The earliest recorded formal negotiations, held during President Jeyawardene's presidency. The Tamil side presented four cardinal principles, including recognition of Tamils as a distinct nationality and their right to self-determination. The talks collapsed due to Indian diplomatic pressure, lack of proper Sri Lankan political representation, and ceasefire violations by the Sri Lankan government.
1989–1990 – Colombo
Held during President Premadasa's presidency, these talks focused on the withdrawal of Indian military occupation, the repeal of the 6th Amendment, and dissolving the North-Eastern Provincial Council. The talks broke down when Premadasa rejected key Tamil demands and broke the ceasefire agreement without warning.
1994–1995 – Jaffna
Conducted during President Chandrika's presidency, these negotiations addressed lifting economic embargoes, reopening key roads, lifting fishing bans, and a cessation of hostilities. The Sri Lankan government failed to implement agreed measures, refused a permanent ceasefire, and used the talks as cover to expand its armed forces.
2002–2007 – Norway, Thailand, Germany & Switzerland
The most extensive round of talks, facilitated by Norway. Key issues included de-escalation, humanitarian needs, and the formation of sub-committees. Despite international involvement, the Sri Lankan government failed to implement agreements, maintained high security zones, and formally withdrew from the ceasefire agreement in January 2008.