The Sri Lankan Government Information Department announced that the English language will now be considered for conducting legal proceedings and maintaining records in certain courts.
The decision comes as a response to the considerable time and cost involved in translating commercial content from English to Sinhala, particularly in matters related to commerce. According to the department, this translation process often prolongs the settlement of commercial disputes, putting entrepreneurs at a disadvantage and adversely affecting Sri Lanka's position in the Ease of Doing Business ratings.
"The prolonged translation process has hindered Sri Lanka's ability to conduct business efficiently, reflecting negatively on its Ease of Doing Business ranking," stated the Government Information Department.
To address these challenges, the Minister of Justice, in consultation with the Cabinet of Ministers, has proposed an order permitting the use of the English language in specified courts and legal proceedings, in accordance with the provisions outlined in statute 24 (4) of the Constitution.
The proposal, which received approval from the Cabinet of Ministers, paves the way for the English language to be employed in all activities pertaining to recognized courts and legal records, as outlined in the relevant statute.
