Home

Focus Areas

1. Transforming cultural identities towards an inclusive society

A society based on plural values requires working towards attitudinal changes at individual level to tackle long held stereotypes of the “other”. It is important to work towards the transcendence of narrow identities of Sinhala, Muslim and Tamil subjects and to develop a common culture enabling people to deal with dissent democratically and non-violently. Media and arts are particular powerful vehicles to challenge ethno-centric notions of culture. They can share with society how Sri Lankan cultures have developed over ages, positively interacting with each other in fields of language, arts and crafts, religions, etc. Working towards an inclusive society requires however much more than good products. It needs people with ideas and skills to engage in discussions and reflection. The outcome of long-term work in this focus area would be the acknowledgement and celebration of the cultural diversity of Sri Lanka and space for alternative and inclusive forms of identities.

2. Inter-ethnic and inter-religious linkages for conflict transformation

Regions where different ethnic groups interact are often sites of tension. This is due to rivalries among identity groups. However the very multi-ethnic nature of these areas provides also opportunities that help to build positive relationships. If linkages between different ethnic/religious groups could be enhanced, this would provide entry points for ethnic reconciliation. Inter-ethnic and inter-religious linkages can be developed in different ways:

  • undertaking symbolic activities that bring different ethnic groups together to experience fruitful encounters

  • addressing the mechanisms that trigger the outbreak of inter-ethnic violence, and
  • promoting activities that advocate change at policy level to address root causes for tension.

The outcome of long-term work in this focus area would be that different ethnic and religious groups re-establish and strengthen social relations and contribute towards preventing violent conflicts

3. Civic participation for democratic and plural forms of governance

Sri Lanka has a highly diverse and dispersed population. The benefits of economic development and social progress have not been shared equally. Political and administrative decision making has been centralised resulting in marginalization of many people. Program interventions that increase access to information and decision making at all levels of governance need to be facilitated to ensure a more responsive democratic governance system. The capacities of individuals and groups must also be developed to increase active participation in governance within the government and non-government sector. An increased participation of an informed and empowered polity working in an enabling environment, which is the thrust of this focus area, can ensure meeting the needs of all people and prevent destructive conflicts.