Sri Lanka at 77: The failures we must confront

Editorials
By Editor_1
Sri Lankan army cultural troupe march carrying national flags during Sri Lanka's 77th independence day celebrations at the Independence square in Colombo on Tuesday (February 4, 2025) –J. Sujeewakumar/ENCL

 As Sri Lanka marks 77 years of independence, it is a moment that calls not for grand celebrations, but for deep reflection on the nation’s failures and the urgent need for course correction. Independence was meant to signify not just sovereignty, but also progress, justice, and prosperity for all.

Yet, decades later, Sri Lanka remains burdened by economic crises, political instability, ethnic divisions, and systemic corruption. The National People’s Power (NPP), which now helms the government, must take bold and decisive action to confront these deep-seated issues and chart a new course for the nation’s future.

Sri Lanka has undoubtedly made progress in some areas. Free education and healthcare have been pillars of social upliftment, contributing to high literacy rates and life expectancy. The country has seen infrastructural advancements, with modernized road networks, ports, and urban development. Democratic institutions have endured, with periodic elections and a vocal civil society keeping the spirit of democracy alive.

However, true independence is not measured merely by infrastructure or democratic frameworks—it is measured by the well-being and security of all citizens. By this measure, Sri Lanka has failed in critical ways.

The nation’s post-independence history has been marred by ethnic conflict and political violence. The brutal civil war left deep scars, and genuine reconciliation remains elusive. Successive governments have prioritized political expediency over meaningful efforts to heal communal wounds. The failure to foster trust among communities has only deepened ethnic divisions, perpetuating cycles of discrimination and marginalization.

Sri Lanka’s economic woes are the result of decades of mismanagement, reckless borrowing, and widespread corruption. The nation has lurched from one financial crisis to another, accumulating unsustainable debt while failing to create stable economic foundations. Inflation, a depreciating rupee, and cost-of-living pressures continue to burden the people. Successive governments have promised prosperity but delivered little beyond short-term fixes that have exacerbated the crisis.

Corruption, entrenched at every level of governance, has drained national resources and weakened institutions. The culture of impunity among political elites has hindered accountability, leaving the public disillusioned and governance crippled. Unless corruption is tackled head-on, no economic reform will bring lasting relief.

While Sri Lanka has maintained democratic elections, the erosion of institutions and the politicization of key bodies have weakened governance. The lack of transparency and accountability has created a political system where power is concentrated in the hands of a few, stifling true democratic participation. Restoring faith in governance requires depoliticizing institutions and ensuring that the rule of law is upheld without bias.

Despite its rich biodiversity, Sri Lanka faces alarming environmental degradation. Deforestation, unregulated development, coastal erosion, and poor disaster preparedness threaten both natural resources and livelihoods. Climate change has intensified extreme weather events, yet policy responses remain inadequate. The failure to implement sustainable environmental policies endangers future generations and undermines long-term economic stability.

Today, with the NPP government in place, expectations are high for a transformative shift. The administration must demonstrate a commitment to economic stability by implementing transparent policies that promote sustainable development and equitable resource distribution. It must move away from the failed economic models of the past and prioritize long-term stability over short-term political gains.

Addressing corruption must be at the forefront. Strengthening institutions, enforcing anti-corruption laws, and ensuring that those responsible for financial mismanagement face consequences are critical to restoring public trust. The NPP must prove that it is different from its predecessors by holding itself accountable and ensuring transparency in governance.

Social justice and reconciliation must also be key priorities. The government must take decisive steps to address ethnic divisions and create an inclusive national identity. Policies must reflect a genuine commitment to equity, ensuring that all communities feel represented in the nation’s progress. Education and healthcare reforms should be strengthened to meet the evolving needs of society, ensuring that development reaches all corners of the country.

The failures Sri Lanka faces are not solely the responsibility of its leaders—civil society, the media, and the people must also play their part. A strong, engaged citizenry is essential to holding the government accountable. The media must uphold its role as a watchdog, exposing corruption and advocating for transparency. Citizens must demand better governance and refuse to tolerate the culture of impunity that has plagued the nation for decades.

-ENCL

Editor_1
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