(Sri Lanka Brief/24 November 2025) The government is pressing ahead with plans to host Sri Lankan Day celebrations from 12–14 December in Colombo, positioning the event as a national platform to unite communities. Approved by the Cabinet of Ministers, the initiative seeks to create a space where citizens feel respected regardless of political, religious, or cultural identity.
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has already reached out to Tamil and Muslim political parties to brief them on preparations—a move widely seen as a constructive step towards building trust and collective ownership. However, analysts and civil society leaders warn that the success of Sri Lankan Day will depend on the government’s willingness to embrace inclusivity and collaboration.
The National Peace Council stressed that opposition parties and civil society organisations must be actively involved in planning and implementation. “If this event is to reflect the full diversity of the country, it cannot be a government-only initiative,” the Council noted. Civil society groups, which have championed reconciliation and grassroots engagement even during times of conflict, are regarded as essential partners in making Sri Lankan Day meaningful.
Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath, speaking at a recent event marking the 25th anniversary of UN Security Council Resolution 1325, acknowledged civil society’s role as an ally in addressing national challenges. His remarks signalled a shift towards dialogue and cooperation—moving beyond limited engagement.
Advocates believe Sri Lankan Day offers an opportunity to consolidate this positive momentum. But they caution that planning must embody the principles the event seeks to celebrate. A structured mechanism for civil society participation, transparency in decision-making, and bipartisan engagement will demonstrate that reconciliation is not just a government goal but a shared national effort.
(With the inputs from a press release issued by National Peace Council)