International Studies Students’ Research Symposium (ISSRS)

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Achieving Holistic Peace beyond a Military Victory: case of Sri Lanka.
(1st International Studies Students’ Research Symposium-2017 (ISSRS 2017) ,Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2017) Gallage, H.
The small island state of Sri Lanka is in a period of revival after the end of a civil war which was fought for several decades. The roots of this conflict traces back to certain administrative decisions of colonizers as well as of successive governments which expanded the conflict into a fully-fledged civil war between the Sinhala majority and the Tamil minority represented by the terrorist organization, the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam. After three decades of persistent fighting the war came to closure in 2009 but the question of peacemaking left to answer was perhaps even more challenging. Eight years after the end of war, elements of violence still prevail which not only make it almost impossible to call the peace gained sustainable and holistic, but also probable for a conflict to resurge. Therefore the objective of this research is to analyze the post-war context of Sri Lanka and thereby determine a holistic model of peace which is sustainable beyond the military victory gained back in 2009. The research takes up a qualitative approach and to that end it gathers secondary data that assess the post-war situation of the country. The analysis is largely based on the theoretical analysis of Johan Galtung’s theory of negative and positive peace in relation to post-war Sri Lanka. A careful assessment of the post-war data of Sri Lanka for the period of 2009-2016 suggests that the peace gained following the military victory is negative while lacking peace in its positive, holistic sense. The research findings manifest that although Sri Lanka has been unified territorially its numerous ethnicities are yet to be reconciled into one tightly knitted inclusive society to create the Sri Lankan nation that transcends narrow ethnic disparities. It also concludes that it may require years of commitment and significant upheaval of the attitudes of the public. But if that can be achieved, its results can be relished by many generations to come who shall not be burdened again with the agonies of war.
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.
An Analysis of Socio Cultural Issue related to Unskilled Women Migration from Sri Lanka to Middle East.
(1st International Studies Students’ Research Symposium-2017 (ISSRS 2017) ,Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2017) Alles, D.R.
Since 1977 Sri Lankan unskilled women migration gradually move for substantially important path. Moreover it gathered foreign remittances to the motherland and it becomes key aspect of annual Gross National Product (GNP). And the social aspect of economically wellbeing is encouraged rural or countryside people to migrate, especially women to Middle East as Housemaids. Then in 1985 Sri Lankan Ministry of Foreign employment established Sri Lanka foreign employment Bureau and Sri Lanka foreign employment Agency to support and encourage people. During the 90th century Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Dubai, Oman, Jordan, Lebanon, Bahrain were popular. Then Sri Lanka became a labour source country. This research observed about challengers, difficulties and harassments faced by the housemaids in Middle East and why they become victims of those facts under following objectives. To identify reasons of increased unskilled women migration from Sri Lanka to Middle East. To analyze the Socio and Cultural issues in working places of Middle East. To determine the actions were taken by the government to decrease the problems of Middle East and limitations of that. And secondary data such as researches and recorded data about former housemaid employers may contribute to identify their attitudes on employments in Middle East. Moreover their own experiences will be the great evidences to find key tasks. They do not have proper education of using electronics and about culture. Also cannot against over their master’s behaviors. Because of they are week and powerless. Some of housemaids came back with permanently disabled, sick, sexual harassments, painful experiences or died. And the other social effect is children of migrate mother exploited by the society. Those findings were the outcomes of this research. Suggestions are the government should make more successful procedure for unskilled women migration to the Middle East, The human rights of housemaids must be protected. Therefore this women migration must be updated by the current circumstances according to the world labour market and responsible to protect social condition of human values. This research should be important for scholars, researchers, undergraduates and people who are engaged with this subject for further observations.
An Analysis of Successes and Failures of the South China Sea Dispute Management.
(1st International Studies Students’ Research Symposium-2017 (ISSRS 2017) ,Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2017) Goonathilake, M.A.N.P.
Southeast Asia is home to a range of complex territorial disputes, but the most intractable and combustible is the South China Sea dispute. Root causes and recent developments of South China Sea dispute seem to be quite complicated. Nonetheless, the level of engagement in the disputes differs from state to state. The main objective of this study is to evaluate the root causes of the conflict; to investigate possible conflict prevention mechanisms; while assessing its successes and failures. The Content analysis method will be used to achieve the said objective empirically by using secondary data based on a review of existing literature on the issue. In doing so, two schools of thoughts i.e. Defensive realist approach and Liberalist- institutionalism have been used. For the convenience of the study, ASEAN’s potential role in South China Sea dispute resolution and the implementation of UNCLOS have been scrupulously investigated. The findings of the study illustrate that dispute is still ongoing since there are no recognized maritime boundaries. It also argues that a security dilemma applies in the region. Despite China’s claims of absolute sovereignty over the islands in the South China Sea, it appears that China’s neighbors are refusing to back down. The ASEAN Way has always served as mechanism for conflict prevention – not conflict resolution, and China’s involvement with ASEAN may help to curb the risk of violence. Findings further suggest that, while UNCLOS is unable to settle the dispute directly, if the countries brought their territorial claims more in line with the convention, there would be a stronger basis of understanding between them. It would also create more opportunities for meaningful negotiation and concessions between them. While international law’s enforcement mechanisms are likely useless in the region, if a united ASEAN positioned itself as a staunch defender of international law against a bully, China would face much greater international pressure to abandon its excessive claims and play by the same rules as everyone else.
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.
Applicability of International Peace Making Models to the Post War Era of Sri Lanka.
(1st International Studies Students’ Research Symposium-2017 (ISSRS 2017) ,Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2017) Ishaq, M.A.M.
This research is based on the Sri Lankan ethnic conflict. Although it is said that there was no ethnic conflict in Sri Lanka it is an obvious fact that there was a long fought civil war in Sri Lanka. This research study finds out the progress of the ongoing peace process in Sri Lanka after its end in 2009 and whether it is well implemented or not and thereby to find out an international peace keeping model for Sri Lankan ethnic conflict which will be a new light reevaluate the conflict. The research objectives of this research are to identify the nature of Sri Lankan peace process, to identify the reasons for its failure and to identify the applicability of international peace keeping models on Sri Lankan peace process. This research is based on descriptive research method. The research assesses the past of the conflict, the current context and future trends. This research analyzes both primary data collected by interviews using semi-structured interview method and a questionnaire method and secondary data. But this research is heavily based on secondary data from internet, journals, books and newspapers. These data have then been analyzed using several theories of international relations, political studies, psychology and social studies. The research has been done in several levels of analysis. First the multi-ethnic nature of Sri Lanka has been taken into account while drawing comparisons from similar countries in the world faced with ethnic conflict and investigating what measure have been taken by them. In this regard, the post-apartheid movements in South Africa, America and the Tunisian National Dialogue Quartet have been evaluated. Secondly, the study explores the presence of nationalist and humanitarian revolutionary factors in Sri Lanka. Thirdly, it has looked into feasible governing models that can keep the peace in Sri Lanka. Finally the research finds out what institutions are suitable to sustain the peace. Based on this multi-level analysis, the study concludes that transformative leadership, peace education, peace journalism, moderate political solution and equal economy can pave the way for lasting peace in Sri Lanka.
The Application of Non-violence Approach for Settling Prolonged Civil Wars: Case Study of Syria
(2nd International Studies Students’ Research Symposium – 2018, Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2018) Dilhani, R.W.T.
By nature, wars are the component instrument and it is fundamentally political. The parts involved in war should concentrate all their energy towards the final aim: victory. Recently, wars become smaller than before but even so, they seem to be more intense and vicious as always. The local actors’ revolt in civil wars to achieve their diverse goals. The Middle East wanted for once beginning the wave of rebellion against their ruling regimes. The wave is called as “Arab Spring” and it has led to demonstrate plenty of pro-democracy changes across the whole Middle East continent within a short period. For decades currently, the international actors tried to bring an end state to civil wars through negotiated settlements instead of the military approach. Find a peaceful solution to the Syrian conflict seems very difficult. The economic, political or cultural issues do not seem to be viable barriers to a winning negotiated agreement and a mediation method has already been initiated inside Syria´s case. Therefore, the objective of this is to determine why a negotiated settlement has not been found in Syrian war. And also, to identify the importance of the use of non - violence negotiation approach rather than a military approach to the Syrian Civil War. The research takes up a descriptive analysis method under the qualitative approach to that end it gathers secondary data that assess conflict situation of Syria. The research findings manifest that how some actors had influenced to the development of the conflict making use of their status on the national and international stage. And also, conflict from different perspectives have been disclosed additional reasons that contribute to the failure of the negotiation process in Syria. Therefore, there should be a proper mechanism to bring a successful non-violence approach for Syrian war. If the negotiated application can be succeeded within this civil war, its results will be answerable for other same situations in the world
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.
Assessing the Role of India in SAARC as a Regional Power
(Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, 2019) Subarathne, P.R.S.M.
Regional Organizations are very important things in the world. The World has already developed on economically, politically, military power in the world. Among organizations, South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation or (SAARC) is very important in the South Asian region. SAARC is a manifestation of the determination of the people of South Asia to work together towards finding the solution to their common problems in a spirit of friendship, trust and understanding create and order based on mutual respect, equity and shared benefits. SAARC is an economic and geopolitical organization. That was established to promote socio- economic development, stability and welfare economics and collective self- reliance within its member nation. It was included by eight countries. India, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Afghanistan and Maldives. India is one of the oldest civilizations in the world with a kaleidoscopic variety and rich cultural heritage. It is the second-most populous country and the most populous democracy in the world. India is the largest economy in SAARC. There by having the highest influence in economic matters, political matters. Also in terms of geography, land size, population and political clout, India dominates SAARC. The real role is to ensure stability, peace and development in the South Asian Region. Hence, this study focuses on did India fulfill its responsibilities in SAARC as a regional power. This study is a qualitative research which utilizes secondary data collected from previous studies and books. India is playing the role of a big brother in the formation and functioning of SAARC. We can identify India’s role in SAARC. From that we can go in to the SAARC has already succeed or not. On the time of its establishment SAARC was facing many problems. The relationship of India and Pakistan has especially affected the way of SAARC. The main problems in the way of SAARC are, Tension between India and Pakistan, Interference of superpowers, Political disturbance, Terrorism. Accordingly India has a big responsible for resolving these problems in South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation.
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.
Brexit and United Kingdom’s Future.
(1st International Studies Students’ Research Symposium-2017 (ISSRS 2017) ,Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2017) Fernando, U.G.G.
European Union plays an important role in multilateral organizations in the world. UK has taken a decision to leave EU. This is named as Brexit referendum in 2016. United Kingdom leaves EU for several reasons. This research is meant to find the reasons why UK left the EU and to understand its future prospects. The research has been conducted in a qualitative approach by analyzing secondary data found through academic journals, books, research papers and statistics. The analysis of these data shows several realities concerning this issue. Once a year more than 300000 immigrates are coming to UK because of which UK decreased their job opportunities. Also as a member of the EU, UK pays 350£ million every week. The counter campaign believed that it will be more useful to use the money for the sustainability in National Health Service. While UK staying as a member in EU, it should consider about immigration problems, unless immigration percentage will be more in near future. The former Prime Minister was not able to successfully promote the reasons why UK should continue to be with EU which made his policy decisions quite unreliable. In addition the Golden Brown and Sadiq Khan issue spread the situation to a conflict level. Alen Jonson and Jeramy Corbin were not supported by others. Cameron favouring Bremain campaign by Boris Jonson also tarnished his image. The senior citizens population in UK is high with nationalistic opinions and imperialist thoughts. Due to these reasons the UK should stand as a sovereign state and be independent in political and economic aspects. Considering about the Brexit, there are positive impacts like sovereignty, freedom to go outside the common Agricultural Policy and the booming of the fishing industry. There will also be no more contribution to the EU budget. However there are also negative impacts like a hard hit economy after withdrawing from the EU and safety issues.
BREXIT: Economic Implications for Sri Lanka and the Way Forward
(Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, 2019) Wisidagama, W.D.D.Shevoni
The European Union (EU) is the largest trading block in the world, accounting for around one third of global trade. Therefore, when the United Kingdom (UK) voted to leave the European Union in 2016 referendum, it presented significant implications to the economy of the rest of the world. Sri Lanka shares strong trade relations with the EU compared to other trading blocs in the world and the involvement of Sri Lanka with the UK is considerably higher than its involvement with any other EU country, annual trade with the UK amounting to over ten percent. Hence, it is evident that Brexit would bring about changes to trade relations Sri Lanka enjoys with the UK at present. Thus, this study aims to examine the challenges that Sri Lanka might encounter in the post Brexit context by analysing the current relations between Sri Lanka and the UK and the Brexit process. Further, the study explores the changes that should be made to the current trade policies of Sri Lanka to strengthen its trade relations with the UK. The methodology of this study includes qualitative methods which gathered statistical data from secondary sources to calculate the impact of Brexit on trade relations between Sri Lanka and the UK. The findings of this study illustrate that Brexit could prompt a drop in demand for Sri Lankan goods in the UK post Brexit and that there could be changes in tariff access to the UK, reducing Sri Lankan exports to the UK. The study identifies that Brexit negatively impacts the economy of Sri Lanka and suggests making policy changes to strengthen economic relations of Sri Lanka with the UK to overcome post Brexit challenges.
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.
Challenges and Barriers for the Reconciliation in the Post War Period of Sri Lanka (Special Reference to Northern Province)
(Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, 2019) Hettiarachchi, Sadeepa Randunu
The Sri Lankan government engaged in a war with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). And they declared the end of the 30 years’ war with LTTE on May 2009. After the end of the war, reconciliation has become the first task of the peacebuilding discourse in Sri Lanka. Although the civil war has finished through the war victory, the ethnic conflict is still going on with the absence of physical violation movements with each other. But there are great possibilities for a restoration of the civil war. Hence, it is necessary to distinguish the major factors which will lead to a reproduction of war in the future. Therefore, the main objective of this study was to identify the challenges and barriers for the reconciliation in the post-war period of Sri Lanka. This study has used questionnaires to gather the primary data and previous research, books, online web articles were used as secondary data. The survey was conducted in the Vavuniya district with a total sample of 100 and it represented Sinhala, Tamil and Muslim ethnicities. According to the findings, it was found that the possible factors for the restoration of civil war in the future are the lack of consensus within the political actors of government regarding the post-war reconciliation; the lack of confidence among the ethnic groups about the policies of reconciliation; the contradictory policies among the government, NGOs, civil society organizations and international community for the reconciliation mechanism; and the inequalities of government policies regarding language. Although the war has ended, still Sri Lanka has failed to eliminate the risk of war in the future. Therefore, the lack of a formal mechanism of national and international policies for the reconciliation can identify as a decisive factor for the reproduction of civil war in the future.
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.