Still Counting the Dead summary

Escalation of Violence

In Still Counting the Dead by Frances Harrison, we are transported to the war-torn island of Sri Lanka, a place where the author once worked as a BBC correspondent. The book begins with the author's personal experiences, where she recounts the escalation of violence between the Sri Lankan government and the Tamil Tigers, a separatist group fighting for an independent state for the Tamil minority.

As the conflict intensifies, the government implements a media blackout, making it almost impossible for the outside world to know what's happening. This leaves the civilians, especially the Tamils, isolated and at the mercy of the warring factions. The author, however, is determined to uncover the truth, and she begins to collect stories from survivors and witnesses.

Human Cost of War

In the middle part of the book, Still Counting the Dead takes a harrowing turn as it delves into the human cost of the war. Harrison gives voice to the victims, including children, who are caught in the crossfire. We hear about schools and hospitals being bombed, food and medical supplies being blocked, and civilians being forced into so-called 'safe zones' that end up being anything but safe.

Through these personal testimonies, the author paints a grim picture of the atrocities committed on both sides. She also highlights the psychological trauma endured by the survivors, many of whom have lost their homes, families, and any sense of normalcy. The narrative is heart-wrenching, but it also serves as a powerful reminder of the human toll of war.

Aftermath and Accountability

As the war in Sri Lanka draws to a brutal close, the final part of the book shifts focus to the aftermath and the lack of accountability. The author describes the mass internment of Tamils in government-run camps, where they are subjected to harsh conditions and constant surveillance. The international community, meanwhile, remains largely silent.

Frances Harrison also discusses the government's efforts to control the narrative, presenting the war as a 'humanitarian operation' to liberate the Tamils from the Tamil Tigers. She exposes the propaganda machinery at work, which further complicates the search for truth and justice.

Conclusion and Reflection

In conclusion, Still Counting the Dead is a powerful, deeply moving account of a conflict that has been largely forgotten by the world. Through the stories of individuals, the book humanizes the suffering of the Sri Lankan people, particularly the Tamil minority, and highlights the urgent need for justice and reconciliation.

The book also serves as a poignant reflection on the role of media, government, and international community in conflicts. It raises important questions about the responsibility to protect civilians during wartime and the need for independent, impartial reporting. In the end, Still Counting the Dead is a plea for remembrance and a call for action to prevent such tragedies from happening again.