ISSRS 2023

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Achieving SDG’s 2, 3 and 4 in Sri Lanka by 2030; Case Studies from Ampara, Badulla and Monaragala Districts
(Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Pathirana, K.P.K.K.
The United Nations magnify 2030 agenda which include seventeen SDG‟s to initiate the ground plan to reach sustainability in the future lives of human world. In consonance with the SDG‟s zero hunger, Good Health and Well-being and quality education in Sri Lanka addressing with the explicit focus on malnutrition and protecting child rights in the districts of Badulla, Ampara and Monaragala functioning as the pioneering areas which are suffering from highest rate of malnutrition and the violation of the child rights. One in two children in Sri Lanka going huger and rising malnutrition among children has become forefront concern with the prevailing social and economic disrupts. To address these issues this case stand ongoing initiatives in Badulla, Monaragala and Ampara that aim to improve nutrition, healthcare and child rights. Through the study, its clearly emphasized the involvement of mentioned SDG‟s to enhance the status of children using the mechanisms of government, NGO‟s , UN and UNICEF humanitarian assistance to enhance the social environment. Attain the expected outcome of the study used both primary data such as interviews and discussions then as the secondary data sources used journals, newspapers, government reports, UN and UNICEF records, books. A balanced exploration required to understand the shape of UN framework in Sri Lanka to promote the child rights via fulfilling the basic needs surpassing the prevailing social circumstances.
Analyzing India’s Need for Permanent Membership of United Nations Security Council
(Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Somarathna, G.M.J.P.; Jayawardhana, J.M.C.D.
The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is crucial for assessing the integration of rising powers, with India‟s case exemplifying a developing power adapting to its expanded role and expectations. India‟s quest for permanent membership in the UNSC has been a longstanding diplomatic endeavor. India is one of the fastest-growing economies in the world and a major player in the Asia-Pacific region. India, as one of the world‟s largest and most populous democracies, has consistently argued that its inclusion as a permanent member in the UNSC is not just a matter of national pride, but a necessity for global stability and equity. The country has long sought permanent membership in the UNSC to reflect its growing stature on the global stage. This research paper provides an analysis of India‟s need for permanent membership in the UNSC. As far as the methodology of the research is concerned, this is qualitative research based on secondary data. The main sources of data collection include government reports, academic literature, websites, and other relevant sources. This research paper explores India‟s historical ties to the Security Council, its objectives, reform initiatives, and methods for securing a permanent seat. It analyzes India‟s growing economic and political power, commitment to global peace and security, and its current situation in the UNSC. The paper concludes that India‟s long-held desire for permanent membership can be realized through a realpolitik, pragmatic strategy involving tough power negotiations. However, potential challenges include tensions with neighboring countries and resistance from other UNSC members. The paper acknowledges India‟s justified bid for permanent membership and calls for the international community to seriously consider its role in shaping global security and governance.
Analyzing the Economic Growth of Sri Lanka after the Post Pandemic Era with Special Reference to Tourism Industry
(Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Kavindya, M.K.U.; Gamlath, G.R.Y.M.
The tourist sector is one of Sri Lanka's most significant sources of revenue. But due to the absence of tourists visiting Sri Lanka because of the pandemic's effects, the economy significantly deteriorated during that time. All Sri Lankans' lives were drastically altered because of this economic disaster. The significance of this is to lay the foundation needed to develop Sri Lanka's economic prosperity. The authorities responsible for the tourism sector have, however, put into practices several strategies, including improving digital presence and online marketing, adopting health and safety protocols and certification schemes, offering financial relief and stimulus packages, supporting the unofficial sector and community-based tourism, and strengthening institutional capacity and coordination. Additionally, it is evident that the tourism sector is rebounding significantly thanks to non-authority sources' efforts for revenue generation, employment opportunities, infrastructure development, and cultural exchange. As a direct result of the expanding tourism sector, Sri Lanka's economy is also expanding to some extent. Research literature, Articles, Web sites, Journals are used as secondary data in this research. Several countries such as United Arab Emirates, Greece, Egypt and also South Asian countries such as Vietnam and Thailand have focused on developing their tourism industries in the post-pandemic era to stimulate economic growth and recovery. This study highlights Sri Lanka's economic recovery post-pandemic due to the collapse of the tourism sector. However, current measures are insufficient. But suggests implementing politically required measures could boost the economy and potentially revive other nations' tourism sectors.
Analyzing the Role of Sri Lankan Defense Forces in Response to COVID-19
(Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Baddawela, Y.M.K. Yapa; Upananda, R.M.S.M.; Dissanayake, R.D.D.T.
The outbreak of COVID-19 in Sri Lanka posed many challenges to Sri Lankan healthcare and administrative infrastructure. The defense forces visibly played a vital role in managing the outburst of the pandemic while keeping the outcome within manageable limits. While the country had a hard time with mitigating the spread, the role of the Sri Lankan defense forces emerged as pivotal in addressing the pandemic‟s multi-faceted impact. The study aims to assess the involvement and effectiveness of the Sri Lankan defense forces in managing the COVID-19 pandemic. It highlights the collaborative approach of Sri Lanka in managing a global health crisis, emphasizing the importance of defense forces in supplementing national responses beyond their traditional roles. The study employed a qualitative approach, using Secondary data from existing research papers, official documents, reports, and media briefings. The data gathered through the research are analyzed in order to identify the effectiveness of the role played by the defense forces. Defense forces played a pivotal role in logistical support, quarantine facilities establishment, and contact tracing. Also, public trust in the defense forces was instrumental in ensuring compliance with health guidelines. It can be seen that the Sri Lankan defense forces played a significant role in effectively responding to COVID-19. Their involvement showcased a collective approach to crisis management, demonstrating the adaptability of defense institutions. To further enhance readiness for future health crises, formal training modules can be introduced in the defense curriculum focusing on pandemic response.
Assessing Health Care Access and Disparities in South Sudan: A UDHR Perspective
(Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Kaushika, Ridmi
The UDHR is a crucial document that upholds the right to health, mainly in the African region. During the pandemic and post-pandemic eras, it was possible to explore healthcare access, vaccination distribution, and pandemic preparedness as key indicators of adherence to the fundamental principles that are important to promote equitable healthcare access for African citizens. However, the problem revolves around understanding the significant challenges due to the lack of basic facilities in countries such as South Sudan. Even though some states have made progress, the right to healthcare access still has certain disparities in South Sudan. Thus, the main aim of this study is to assess the issues countries face when adhering to the UDHR‟s right to health in South Sudan. Furthermore, this study also looks forward to evaluating healthcare access improvements aiming to reduce disparities in South Sudan. This study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative research methods. It primarily relies on secondary data from government reports of South Sudan, and academic studies and would be analyzed using content analysis methods. This research provides outcomes that depicts South Sudan‟s adherence to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights' right to health varies significantly, with some areas demonstrating a stronger commitment to equitable healthcare access and pandemic preparedness than others. It also indicated that rural and marginalized communities often experiencing limited access to essential healthcare services, exacerbating existing health inequalities. Yet this study has limitations, as the data is only available up to a certain cut-off date, and the diverse nature of the South Sudan has not been covered in a nuanced manner. The significance of this is crucial, as it provides insights for policymakers, international organizations, and stakeholders in designing targeted strategies to promote equitable healthcare access.
Balancing Foreign Policy between Neighbors and Friends: The Case of Sri Lanka
(Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Jayathilake, Anudi
The concept of Foreign Policy is vividly portrayed as a strategic sequence of activities within a global arena. States possess vivid foreign policies which are aimed to achieve National Interests along with a main consideration to economic, social, and cultural sectors. Sri Lanka‟s foreign policy is formulated on the basis of the policies of leaders. Different leaders have emphasized the importance of establishing healthy relations with the neighbors, India and friends, China. Mrs. Sirimavo Bandaranaike‟s foreign policy stands unique in balancing the foreign policy between neighbors and friends. This research paper extensively describes the Sri Lankan perspective of maintaining equilibrium in foreign policy focusing on the trailblazing foreign policy of the elegant leader Sirimavo Bandaranaike. Hence, the research paper vividly analyses on how the strategies employed by Mrs. Bandaranaike namely, shuttle diplomacy, balance of power and the policy of non- Alignment aided in balancing the foreign policy while encountering the changing nature of geopolitics. The vibrant research methodology includes a detailed data analysis via a specific range of primary and secondary sources which includes research papers, journal articles, books, letters, government documents, speeches, and interviews. Subsequently, this research becomes significant as it portrays an overview on the efficient maintenance of equilibrium of the Sri Lankan foreign policy and how the modern politicians could utilize the same strategies to address key issues. The specific research findings elaborate on the pivotal analysis on the establishment of strong and healthy relations with the Communist bloc via the strategy of “Balance of Power”. Thereby, it aims to counterbalance the Indian influence and reduce the interdependency. Hence, the vibrant research recommends the application of a Non-Aligned foreign policy strategically within modern politics.
“Beyond Pink and Blue” A Study of Sri Lanka’s Response to the Human Rights Issue of Homosexual Community in Sri Lanka
(Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Silva, M.U.I.
Homosexuality goes beyond blue and pink or a combination thereof. What are the challenges homosexual individuals in Sri Lanka face in connection to human rights, and how could the importance, weaknesses, and role of initiatives that propose policies of equality be analyzed? The primary objective of this study is to identify the fundamental challenges related to human rights violations faced by the homosexual community in Sri Lanka and the legal interpretation of them. In addition, to understand the types of discrimination and violations, to examine the role of related initiatives concerned, and finally to propose policies that provide equality to all, as a contemporary issue, this investigation has crucial significance because of the sensitivity with which it examines the various sexual orientations, their privacy, and their legal and human rights obligations toward them. The study is carried out with a qualitative approach. The primary data was gathered by using an online questionnaire, covering Sri Lanka with 98 gay and lesbian participants. Also, online and library sources, including books, articles, news, the Constitution, and statutes, are used as secondary data. According to the questionnaire, the main challenge that homosexuals are experiencing is one related to the health sector. 56.5% of the people who responded to the questionnaire did not seek help for the challenges against them, and 27.2% sought help. Therefore, the right mechanism should be implemented to respond to such challenges and should be oriented towards homosexual people. The aspiration of the group is that a developmental and educational awareness of human rights should be started through primary education, and society should increase awareness. The propriety of sections 365 and 365 (A) of the penal code is thus examined. Through this study, human rights violations against homosexuals and Sri Lanka‟s response to them can be identified.
The Brain Drain Catastrophe: The Migration of Junior Academic Staff in Government Universities amidst the Economic Crisis in Sri Lanka
(Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Jayarathna, Isini; Moore, Onnela; Hewage, Vishmi Pussala
The development of any state or an institution is influenced by its human capital and competent workforce. However, the current economic crisis in Sri Lanka has been a predicament for most of the citizens and has caused drainage of skilled labor in academia. In this context, there is a tendency among young scholars who recently graduated from government universities in Sri Lanka to migrate to foreign countries aiming for permanent residence and privileged professions. This has created a loophole in academia by creating a scarcity of qualified junior academic staff. Hence, the objective of this study was to analyze the reasons, the consequences of the excessive migration of young scholars in academia and the recommendations to uplift favorable conditions in the Sri Lankan context. Hence, random samples of 30 participants who graduated after 2020 and have experience of being a junior academic staff member in a government university were selected to collect primary data. Thus, a questionnaire comprising 6 close-ended questions and 6 open-ended questions was administered and 5 interviews were conducted while the collected data was analyzed using graphs and thematic analysis. According to the findings, low standard of living, new taxation system which affected the salaries of the academics, lack of opportunities for professional growth, job insecurity, lack of facilities for their post-graduate studies and lack of incentives were presented as reasons for migration. According to the perceptions of the participants, the consequences of brain drain were unveiled as loss of human capital, and its impact on the quality of tertiary-level education in Sri Lanka. In conclusion, the development of new opportunities in the academic arena including permanent vacancies, imposing a fair taxation system and improving privileges for the junior academic staff were regarded as recommendations by the participants.
Break the Bias; Women’s Political Participation to Achieve Gender Equality Today for a Sustainable Tomorrow (A Study under Women Parliamentarians’ Caucus in Parliament of Sri Lanka)
(Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Hathiyaldeniya, R.M.H.P.M.
Women's political participation is a political concept that occupies a unique place in the practical political curriculum. Women naturally engage in political participation as it integrates with their lifestyle and is one aspect of their life journey. But depending on each other's opinions and attitudes, their levels of participation in politics may vary. This research based on „How has Sri Lanka achieved Women‟s Political Participation while achieving Gender Equality? This was done on behalf of the Women's Caucus of the Parliament of Sri Lanka. The purpose of this is to show that it is possible to achieve gender equality today and move towards a sustainable tomorrow through women's political participation. For this study, a sample of the 12 female MPs representing the women's caucus of the Parliament of Sri Lanka was selected, and information was obtained through the dual methods of primary and secondary data, i.e., questionnaires, books, reports, and the internet. According to the data analysis using Excel tables and graphs, the final conclusion was that there is no gender equality in Sri Lanka, and women's political participation is essential to achieve it. Through that, we can move towards a sustainable tomorrow. There are many proposals, such as empowering women at the local level to create gender equality through increasing women's political participation, asking women's opinions in decision-making, providing theoretical and practical knowledge, improving the representation system, and giving a percentage value to women on the national list and the list of political parties. Through this women‟s political participation, gender equality can be established and steps can be taken today for a sustainable tomorrow.
BRI & Geo-economics of the 21st Century: A Case Study of Sino Sri Lanka Relations
(Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Methmal, Bathila
This research paper explores the geo-economics of the 21st century, focusing on the bilateral relationship between China and Sri Lanka within the context of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The study investigates the major challenges faced by Sri Lanka during the post-civil conflict era and examines the nature of financial and development assistance provided by China. It also assesses whether Sri Lanka has effectively utilized Chinese financial assistance for its development. The research aims to identify the impact of Chinese investments on Sri Lanka's actual development, understand the key challenges hindering Sri Lanka's development progress, and explore the nature of financial and development assistance from China. Adopting a qualitative research approach, this study relies on secondary data to collect reliable information. Qualitative content analysis is utilized as the data analysis technique to analyze the collected data. The findings of this research reveal that Chinese investments alone are not the sole cause of Sri Lanka's current debt burden. Rather, the mismanagement of many Chinese investments by the Sri Lankan government has contributed to this situation. These findings highlight the complex dynamics of the Sino-Sri Lanka relationship and emphasize the importance of effective governance and management in maximizing the benefits of foreign investments for sustainable development. The research contributes to the existing knowledge on the BRI and its implications for developing countries, providing insights specific to the case of Sri Lanka. Policymakers and practitioners can use these findings to understand the challenges and risks associated with such partnerships and to inform future strategies for maximizing the positive impacts of Chinese investments while mitigating potential risks. Ultimately, the research aims to support evidence-based decision making and sustainable development in Sri Lanka and other countries engaged in the BRI.
Changing Dimensions of Sri Lankan Economy with the Surge of Crypto currency during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Analysis of Sri Lankan Crypto currency through Global Crypto Frameworks
(Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Sewmini, R.A.C.
Crypto currency is a virtual currency without being backed by any tangible reserve. According to „Pauxful‟, a Bitcoin trading platform, the monthly trading volume of Sri Lanka during 2019-2021 was 730% parallel to the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite its‟ popularity, Crypto currency is not still considered as a legal tender in Sri Lanka. Rather, the market volume of Crypto currency in Sri Lanka is LKR 9, 637, 613 with over 320,000 user base. But on the other hand, Crypto-related illicit activities have also raised financial issues in Sri Lanka emphasizing the need of a regulatory mechanism which already many international countries have implemented at present. The main research problem of this study is to investigate why Sri Lanka is not regulating Crypto currency to mitigate financial insecurities to harness the benefits. The main objective of this study is to examine the financial threats born out of Sri Lankan Crypto while investigating how international countries have mitigated their risks through the policy frameworks that have been implemented. This study is a qualitative research based on secondary data. Findings reveal that the anonymity of the Crypto wallet which hides the transaction history and user identity is the main cause for financial insecurities further emphasizing that Sri Lanka's need to strengthen the Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti Money Laundering (AML) regulations to ensure market integrity in compliance with the legal and regulatory framework. Indeed, there exists an imperative need for proper financial governance in Sri Lanka to address the Crypto currency market lacunas.
China and Sri Lanka Relations in the Context of Vaccine Diplomacy
(Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Gunasekara, N.R.A.R.S.
In an increasingly interconnected world, diplomacy has taken on new dimensions and strategies. One of the most prominent and urgent aspects of contemporary diplomacy is vaccine diplomacy, a practice that has gained global attention amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Vaccine diplomacy involves the use of vaccines as a tool for fostering international relations, building influence, and advancing geopolitical agendas. China, as a major global player, has been at the forefront of vaccine diplomacy, and its relations with countries like Sri Lanka have come under the spotlight. This comprehensive analysis aims to examine the intricate dynamics of China and Sri Lanka's relations within the context of vaccine diplomacy and aims to shed light on the implications for global health, regional politics, and bilateral ties. While there is adequate literature on China‟s vaccine diplomacy, there is no consensus on how it affects the relations between China and Sri Lanka. To accomplish those objectives, qualitative secondary data sources such as books, journal articles, government reports, official statements, and press releases from both Chinese and Sri Lankan sources are analyzed. According to the findings of the study, it can be mentioned that Vaccine diplomacy has served as a diplomatic tool to enhance bilateral relations between Sri Lanka and China. It has deepened their strategic partnership in the health sector and reinforced Sri Lanka's dependence on China. Beyond the immediate health benefits, Sri Lanka's engagement with China in vaccine diplomacy is intertwined with broader economic and strategic considerations, including infrastructure development and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Overall, the dynamic relationship between Sri Lanka and China within the realm of vaccine diplomacy has emerged as a multifaceted and evolving strategic partnership.
Complex Interdependence in the Post-Pandemic Era: A Case Study of QUAD
(Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Herath, Thedini
The coronavirus underscores global interconnectedness, with its impact and efforts to combat it highlighting interdependency and the need for international cooperation. Given the context, the post-pandemic era is an ideal setting to assess the relevance of complex interdependence theory put forward by Robert Keohane and Joseph Nye in their 1977 book “Power and Interdependence: World Politics in Transition.” The theory describes a world where states and actors exhibit interdependence through diverse channels, underscoring various facets of interconnectedness beyond mere military might. Complex Interdependence in international politics is characterized by three key features: Multiple channels linking nations, absence of a distinct issue hierarchy, and reduced military emphasis with economic and ecological focus. This paper aims to test the applicability of the afore-mentioned principles of the complex interdependence in the post-pandemic era with regards to QUAD: The Quadrilateral Security Dialogue comprising four Indo-Pacific nations: The United States, Japan, India, and Australia. The significance of this study lies in its assessment of the relevance of a 1970s theory in today's world. This study is a qualitative case study that relies on secondary sources, including scholarly journal articles, QUAD summit reports and joint statements. The QUAD, exemplifying the principle of multiple channels through its diverse interaction channels, has expanded its agenda to encompass non-military issues such as health, technology, infrastructure, and climate change in the post-pandemic era. The pandemic and immediate measures taken by the QUAD show that security threats are not always military and that military security does not always dominate the agenda in this complex interdependent world. In the post-pandemic era, the QUAD emphasizes economic recovery through member cooperation while addressing China's assertiveness with ministerial-level working groups. This study, drawing from diverse secondary sources, highlights the enduring relevance of the 1977 principles of complex interdependence in explaining contemporary global dynamics.
Covid-19 Vaccine Diplomacy as a Soft Power Tool: A Comparative Study of China, Russia and India
(Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Samarasingha, N.V.N.N.
Regarding the worldwide Covid-19 pandemic China, Russia, and India have employed Covid-19 vaccine diplomacy strategies to enhance their soft power influence on the international stage. China has partnered with over 20 developing countries, enhancing the mercerization of its vaccines. India supplied 60 million doses abroad in mid- March 2021, bilaterally supplying vaccines to 48 countries. Russia has pledged to provide the Russian vaccine to anyone and UN staff for free, and the Russian Direct Investment Fund promotes Sputnik V abroad. This research aims to address this gap by conducting a comparative analysis of China, Russia, and India's Covid-19 vaccine diplomacy initiatives, with a focus on understanding the challenges and opportunities they pose in reshaping international relations and perceptions of these nations as global actors. The Objectives of this research are analyse and compare the strategies employed by China, Russia, and India in their Covid-19 vaccine diplomacy efforts , measure the effectiveness of these strategies in enhancing their soft power, building international alliances, and achieving diplomatic goals. This research topic is significant as it examines the multifaceted role of vaccine diplomacy in international relations, with a focus on major global players, contributing to a better understanding of the evolving dynamics of diplomacy in the 21st century. This study use mixed method by using primary and secondary data. The Study's findings suggest that their strategies of vaccine diplomacy are enabled as well as constrained by their economic realities, and the rise of these countries in this field does not necessarily mean an outright challenge to the existing international system.
Digital Diplomacy vs. Traditional Diplomacy: A Comparative Analysis in the Post-Pandemic Landscape
(Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Senavirathne, H.M.O.Y.
As said by Cohen (1998), diplomacy, the “engine room” of international relations, is an essential tool that governments worldwide use to achieve their foreign policy objectives and influence the decisions and behavior of foreign governments through dialogue, negotiations or other peaceful measures. Diplomacy, in the present day context, has undergone significant changes, especially, with the advancement of technology and the outbreak of unprecedented phenomena such as the COVID-19 pandemic. With the emergence of the pandemic, digitalization started to develop at a rapid pace and digital tools, particularly zoom technology, began to play a significant role within the scope of diplomacy as the pandemic restricted face-to-face communication. Given that states have become more inclined to use digital tools rather than conduct their foreign relations the traditional way, this study intends to examine whether traditional diplomacy has been replaced by digital diplomacy, particularly focusing on the period following the global pandemic, while understanding how these developments have influenced the field of diplomacy. In order to attain the foretold objective of the study, a qualitative research approach has been adopted by collecting data through secondary data sources such as publications, academic articles, reports, journal articles, books and other media sources while analyzing the data using the content analysis method. Findings of the study reveal that in the post-pandemic era, traditional diplomacy has not been entirely replaced by digital diplomacy but has undergone a significant transformation. The study further evaluates the irreplaceable aspects of traditional diplomacy while maintaining its value in certain contexts. The research findings conclude that while digital diplomacy has gained prominence today due to its convenience and accessibility, traditional diplomacy remains relevant for situations demanding a more personal touch, confidentiality and a deep understanding of cultural dynamics. Both forms of diplomacy are likely to coexist, with their roles adapting to the specific contexts and challenges of the modern world.
The Dissemination of South Korean Cultural Soft Power in Sri Lanka
(Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Senarathne, H. M. Kasuni Ishara; Dayarathne, A. Desha Rantarakavi; Jayasinghe, Tharushi Udayangi
Over the last decade, South Korea has captivated the world using the concept of soft power. As an emerging power country, South Korea has embraced culture as a primary source of soft power to influence the international system. The rise of South Korean culture in Sri Lanka within a short period of time is remarkable. The Hallyu or Korean Wave of South Korea is a cultural phenomenon that promotes South Korean culture on a global scale. In Sri Lanka, the first wave consisted of Korean dramas dubbed in the local language, while the second wave consisted of Korean pop music. The present New Hallyu Era comprises Korean online games, cuisine, fashion and beauty products which demonstrate South Korea's soft power in Sri Lanka. The primary objective of this paper was to investigate the implementation of culture as a soft power tool by South Korea and how it affects Sri Lanka. Both qualitative and quantitative methodologies were employed to conduct this study. Primary data were gathered using questionnaires and interviews from a selected number of participants while secondary data was gathered from online sources, journals and reports. A descriptive-analytical method was used to analyze the collected data. The research findings indicate that the dissemination of soft power has positively impacted Sri Lankans' perceptions towards South Korea. It has also led them to make an effort to learn and understand Korean culture and language. Moreover, Sri Lankans have been inspired to work in Korean companies which are in Sri Lanka and their desire to provide labor for South Korea was visible. Additionally, it builds a desire to visit South Korea for higher studies and to interact with South Korean people. In conclusion, this paper affirms that South Korea has been successful in using its culture to promote its image at the international level.
Dynamics of Post-Pandemic Regionalism in Southeast Asia
(Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Jayasuriya, D.
The Covid-19 pandemic has made the entire world rethink the future of regional cooperation. The closure of national borders, competition to secure vaccines as well as competition for post-pandemic economic recovery have become major hurdles in promoting greater regional cooperation. Today, globalization has been challenged, and nationalism and populism are gaining a greater say in international relations. In the case of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) it is now at crossroads. Being the most successful regional organization in the developing world, it is now regaining its momentum and striving its way back to becoming a major economic powerhouse. Against this backdrop, the main objective of this study is to analyze the role of regional cooperation in the post-pandemic recovery in Southeast Asia. It looks at regionalism in Southeast Asia from a constructivist perspective and attempts to understand the role of perspectives, experience, and mutual understanding in promoting regional cooperation. As far as the methodology of the study is concerned, this is qualitative research based on secondary data. The main sources of data collection include journal articles, annual reports, and websites. Looking the theoretical background of the study, it is based on constructivism, a more contemporary theory used to explain regional cooperation. Research findings suggest that post-pandemic recovery in Southeast Asia should be based on a more constructivist approach i.e. one based on shared experience and mutual cooperation. The study also calls for the importance of individuals in promoting regional cooperation.
The Economic Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Sri Lankan Migrant Workers in Qatar
(Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Priyadarshani, W.M.D.S.K.
Sri Lankan migrant workers in Qatar, as well as the Sri Lankan economy as a whole, was significantly impacted financially by the spread of COVID-19. The pandemic-driven economic downturn in the country, as Qatar has been one of the primary destinations among Sri Lankan migrants in recent years. This study aims to investigate the extent of the economic challenges faced by this migrant population during the pandemic, with a focus on job security and remittances, to provide insights for policy recommendations and support measures. This study is based on primary data gathered through semi-structured analysis using a mixed-methods approach. The objectives of the research are to assess the extent of job loss or income reduction experienced by Sri Lankan migrants in Qatar due to the COVID-19 pandemic and to explore the remittance patterns and changes in remittance flows from Sri Lankan migrants in Qatar to their families in Sri Lanka during the pandemic. The significance of the research is that it contributes to the global understanding of how migrant populations were affected by the pandemic, offering insights into the adaptability of migrant communities in different contexts. The sectors that Sri Lankan migrants work in Qatar were severely affected by lockdown and restrictions. However when compared to the early months of the pandemic, the financial stability of Sri Lankans in Qatar improved by 2020 with the easing of restrictions imposed to contain the spread of COVID-19. Due to reduced income or unemployment, they had less to send, effecting the financial stability of their families in Sri Lanka. The main findings of this research are that layoffs and pay cuts and Qatar's overall economic decline due to the pandemic affected a significant percentage of Sri Lankan migrants in the country.
Effectiveness of Conflict Transformation Theory in Reconciliation in Sri Lanka: Young Visionary Initiative 2023
(Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Diulpath, G.W.S. Induwara
The Civil War between the Sri Lankan government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam ended in 2009, resulting in many wounds within Sri Lankan societies. But the reconciliation still seems elusive even 14 years after the Civil War. Sri Lanka continues to endure new damages because the nation is attempting to heal from the recent Easter Sunday attack and people‟s struggle; this revealed many border sociopolitical issues where the ethnic divisions have relied upon the core. This research suggests the necessity of reconciliation in Sri Lanka to sustain peace therein. The reason is that Sri Lanka remains within the shades of ethnic violence. Therefore, this research aims to explore a practical theory as a tool to enhance the reconciliation process in Sri Lanka. This research aims to investigate the effectiveness of conflict transformation theory to build reconciliation in post-pandemic Sri Lanka. This research uses a mixed method approach to measure the effectiveness of Conflict transformation theory with descriptive statistics, questionnaires, and context analysis in the data analysis. The „Young Visionary Initiative 2023‟ (YV2023) is a peace-building and reconciliation project launched by the Center for Peace Building and Reconciliation (CPBR) – I use this project as the ground to test the effectiveness of conflict transformation theory. YV2023 initiative provides diverse youths with knowledge of non-violent conflict transformation and practitioner space, launched on the conflict transformation theory implemented by John Paul Lederach (1990;1997). Secondary and primary data were respectively collected by the YV2023 project reports and their participants‟ experiences. Finally, the expected result of this research recommends the Conflict Transformation Theory (CTT) as an effective tool for the reconciliation process in the post-pandemic era. Also, this research suggests that the Sri Lankan government and NGOs utilize CTT as an effective tool in their reconciliation initiatives to build peace in Sri Lanka.
Emerging Foreign Development Assistance Issues in Post Pandemic Era: A Case Study on Hambantota Port
(Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Gunasekara, D.M.A.M.
Sri Lanka was one of the most prosperous nations, and also Sri Lanka faced an economic crisis. The pandemic has posed significant challenges to Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka's economy has suffered significant losses in foreign exchange earnings. And ever since, the country has heavily depended on foreign loans and financial aids. The Foreign Direct Investments (FDI) was the main obstacle to such a wish coming true. The goals of Sri Lanka's growth were dependent on the assistance provided by powerful nations like China. These aids, which came in the form of loans, enabled Sri Lanka forge new diplomatic & economic ties, and construct new strategic assets like the Hambantota port, which would increase foreign investment in the nation and increase worldwide connectivity in order to promote international trade. To investigate the emerging issues of the Hambanthota port development project in the areas of economic, politics and security, understand the strategic effects faced by the third parties due to the Sri Lanka & to get a clear understanding about the outcomes and in which direction the port will lead Sri Lanka‟s economic, political, security and strategic international relation status were the main objectives of this research. Being a pearl in China's "String of Pearls" policy, Sri Lanka may have been caught in a Chinese debt trap. China's development support has completely changed Sri Lanka's standing. The effects of the work done through these loans have benefited the broader people to a greater extent. The public frequently questioned the necessity of new initiatives and international accords as well as their intended outcomes, but wise acts of diplomacy have managed to keep the people in control to an extent. This research was focused on the Hambantota port and its effects on the economic, political, and security spheres in post pandemic era. Data and information for the study has been gathered from both primary and secondary sources. The research approach classified as qualitative. Mainly, the various elements impacted by the growth of the Hambantota port in post pandemic era thoroughly examined in this research.