Sri Lanka Under Ranil Wickremesinghe Shows Rapid Progress

94

Sri Lanka continues to grapple with a deepening economic crisis compounded by issues of misgovernance and a lack of accountability. The aftermath of public protests in 2022 resulted in the resignation of President Gotabaya and Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa. However, hopes for substantial change under the leadership of President Ranil Wickremesinghe have been overshadowed by a focus on stifling dissent and curtailing human rights.

While Wickremesinghe’s administration was anticipated to reverse authoritarian policies and address corruption and human rights violations, recent developments suggest otherwise. The government has introduced repressive laws aimed at silencing critics and limiting civil liberties, raising concerns about transparency and accountability.

Legislation such as the Online Safety Act and the proposed Anti-Terrorism Bill threaten freedom of expression and due process rights, while a draft law regulating non-governmental organizations could restrict civil society’s ability to operate independently.

Despite previous commitments to address human rights issues, progress has been slow, with little done to address the plight of families of the disappeared or provide reparations for victims of past atrocities. The government’s reluctance to engage with international scrutiny, including the Sri Lanka Accountability Project, underscores the need for continued global attention.

Efforts to establish truth and reconciliation mechanisms have fallen short, with victims expressing fatigue and skepticism over repeated inquiries that yield little tangible results. The proposed Commission for Truth, Unity, and Reconciliation lacks credibility and fails to meet international standards.

Meanwhile, Sri Lankans face worsening economic conditions and rising poverty rates, exacerbated by food insecurity and malnutrition among children. The government’s reliance on international financial assistance, while necessary, has failed to address systemic issues of corruption and inequality, placing the burden of recovery on the most vulnerable segments of society.

Wickremesinghe’s administration must prioritize human rights and democratic principles, including safeguarding freedom of expression and allowing civil society to operate without fear of reprisal. Addressing the grievances of marginalized communities, particularly in the north and east, is essential to fostering reconciliation and building trust in the government.

International partners must hold Sri Lanka accountable and advocate for meaningful reforms that uphold democratic norms and protect the rights of all citizens. The path to recovery requires a genuine commitment to transparency, accountability, and social justice, principles that must guide Sri Lanka’s journey toward a more inclusive and equitable future.