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25 April 2024
Japan Provides US$ 3 Million Through FAO to Strengthen Inland Fisheries and Improve Rural Livelihoods in Sri Lanka
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23 April 2024
Climate change and extreme weather impacts hit Asia hard
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07 April 2024
Safeguarding democracy by combatting hate speech and disinformation
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01 April 2024
UN Sri Lanka 2023 Annual Results Report
The 2023 Annual Results Report showcases the collective work and achievements of the UN in Sri Lanka in support of Sri Lanka's national priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals.
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11 May 2021
Verified
Fighting misinformation by flooding the Internet with science, solutions and solidarity.
Become an Information Volunteer! Get a daily Verified briefing. Share life-saving information with your networks.
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19 December 2019
A timeline of the United Nations in Sri Lanka
Check out footprint of Sri Lanka in the United Nations.
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19 December 2019
Peacebuilding Fund in Sri Lanka
As part of the UN’s commitment to support the peacebuilding process, the United Nations Peacebuilding Fund (PBF) began extending support to Sri Lanka in 2015. Check out how the UN is currently providing fast, flexible and relevant funding to over 20 countries.
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14 December 2021
Sri Lanka’s Path to Recovery: Restoring Human Capital in a Post-Pandemic World
Highlights
COVID-19 has had a devastating impact on human capital worldwide and has reversed valuable gains made over the past decade.
Recovery efforts require a renewed commitment and investment in human capital which focuses on establishing robust and resilient systems to reduce exposure and vulnerability to shocks.
Sri Lanka could benefit by bringing together key sectors and stakeholders for comprehensive solutions that can help restore and accelerate human capital.
Abirami is a domestic aide. Daily wage earners like her have been hit hard by the pandemic. Abirami has been out of work since April 2020, barring a few odd jobs that came her way. Her husband Kumar used to operate a food cart, but that too ended abruptly during lockdown. Unable to make ends meet, the couple was compelled to sell the cart, the only asset they had in their name. They now survive on a few thousand rupees a month and have no stable income to rely on.
Insecurity is a familiar feeling for Abirami. As an informal sector worker, she has no employment benefits, or social security. She lives day to day, using her meagre income to cover their daily needs. She does not have the luxury of planning for her future. That is a challenge for another day.
Abirami’s priority is to educate her two sons. A school dropout herself, she is determined that her boys do not have the same fate. Despite her best efforts, she may be unable to give them the future she hopes for. Though Sri Lanka provides free education, disparities in the quality of education often result in unequal employment opportunities, making it harder for children from poorer households to climb out of poverty.
Abirami is also responsible for her elderly mother who was recently diagnosed with cancer. Though she receives free treatment from public hospitals, Abirami is left with many additional costs associated with her care. For a family that survives on a daily income, this cost is overwhelming.
With so much on her plate, Abirami has never had room for her own dreams. “I always wanted to become a beautician,” she says, sounding almost guilty to admit that she once had aspirations for herself.
Sadly, Abirami’s story is not uncommon. It is a story of lost potential, which speaks volumes about the power of investing in human capital. She leaves us with four key takeaways on how best to understand and approach human capital challenges.
Human capital challenges emerge throughout the lifecycle. From raising healthy, educated children, and providing jobs for adults, to supporting social security and healthcare for the elderly, human capital challenges occur at all stages of life. They often have a compounding effect, with challenges from each stage building upon the next. Abirami’s inability to complete schooling hindered her job prospects and quality of life and, in turn, affected her children. Failure to address challenges throughout the lifecycle can trap people in vulnerable positions and perpetuate the intergenerational cycle of poverty.
Human capital challenges require integrated and holistic approaches: Isolated interventions can only go so far in creating sustainable and meaningful change. Human capital challenges require integrated and holistic interventions, based on strong collaborations across key sectors. Additionally, human capital challenges are exacerbated by lack of access to and poor quality of basic services, including water, electricity, and transport. Sri Lanka could benefit from developing a human capital program that brings together key sectors and stakeholders for the implementation of comprehensive solutions that can help restore and accelerate human capital.
The pandemic has reversed valuable human capital gains: For Abirami and others like her the pandemic has exacerbated existing challenges. In Sri Lanka, around 500,000 people have fallen below the poverty line. Jobs have been lost, particularly among women, many of whom will never return to work. The implications of prolonged school closures will be more serious for children who couldn’t access online education, and the ‘silent learning crisis’ will impact future productivity and growth. The pandemic has shown us that robust and resilient systems are needed to reduce exposure and vulnerability to shocks. Adapting and preparing for emerging challenges is also important. For Sri Lanka, the rapidly ageing population and the rising non-communicable disease burden pose a significant threat to human capital, and failing to prepare for these challenges could be disastrous.
Investing in human capital today can save money in the future: Sri Lanka has achieved good results in human capital development with relatively low investment. This remarkable progress demonstrates the country’s potential, and provides a glimpse of what can be achieved with more efficient investment. Human capital challenges reveal inequalities along gender, geography, and income, which allow people like Abirami to fall through the cracks. Investing now can help foster productive citizens who contribute to the national economy, reducing the cost and burden on the system. For instance, in Sri Lanka, only 32 percent of women participate in the labor force as compared to 75 percent of men, and the IMF estimates overall income gains of about 16 percent in 2040 if this gender gap is closed in 50 years.
Looking ahead, Sri Lanka must prepare for the challenge of rebuilding lives and reshaping futures. At this crucial juncture, a renewed focus and commitment to human capital development could support a smooth and resilient recovery.
For Abirami, the road to recovery is long and arduous, but with a little help, her sons could have a very different story.
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07 March 2024
Investment in Women as a Pathway to Societal Progress
International Women’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate women and girls around the world and applaud all they have achieved in the fight for equality. However, despite progress, girls and women continue to face systemic barriers that undermine their rights, limit their opportunities, and diminish their well-being.When global crises such as climate disasters, poverty, and hunger occur, women and girls are affected the most. This is also the case in Sri Lanka where women and girls have been disproportionately affected by the economic crisis and its lasting effects, further exacerbating existing vulnerabilities.Gender inequality is also reflected in women’s representation and participation in leadership, which remains abysmally low in Sri Lanka. At national levels of government, only 5.3 per cent of Parliament members are women, and only one woman is in the Cabinet of Ministers. Although Sri Lanka has previously legislated a 25 per cent quota for women’s representation in local government, women who had been in these positions were often kept from meaningful leadership through harassment and exclusion. Building Blocks of SuccessRealizing women’s rights is not only a moral imperative, but also a smart economic investment. Globally, over 100 million women and girls could be lifted out of poverty if governments employed a comprehensive strategy aimed at improving access to education and family planning, fair and equal wages, and expanding social transfers. Closing gender gaps in employment could boost GDP per capita by 20 per cent, which would grow economies, boost tax revenues, and expand opportunities for all.The story of Vakshala, a 26-year-old mother from Kinnayadi embodies the transformative power of investing in women. After years of displacement due to conflict, Vakshala and her family began to rebuild their lives by starting a business in cement block production. The turning point in Vakshala's entrepreneurial journey came through a training programme supported by the United Nations. The programme, which aims to foster sustainable peace and socio-economic development among resettled communities in Sri Lanka, equipped Vakshala and other entrepreneurs with the insights and resources needed to strategically expand their business. Today, Vakshala's business thrives, producing over 300 cement blocks daily and generating a monthly income that significantly contributes to the livelihoods of her family and broader community. More than just a source of income, her business stands as a beacon of self-reliance and empowerment, offering employment opportunities to young people within her community. Breaking Barriers in the Maritime SectorAs one of the few female transfer crane operators in Sri Lanka's Colombo port, Ruchini is pioneering change in a field traditionally dominated by men. Her participation in a UN-supported work-based learning programme in the maritime sector equipped her with the necessary skills and confidence to excel in her role. Ruchini's story is not just about personal achievement, but about challenging societal norms and inspiring other women to explore opportunities in male-dominated sectors. With women’s participation in Sri Lanka’s labour force continuously stagnant at the lower end of 30%, training programmes such as these create pathways for more women to gain employment in skilled categories and better paying positions. In turn, this invites more diverse insights and perspectives that can drive the industry forward, while also meeting the sector’s increasing labour demand. Unlocking the Potential of Girls through EducationWhen girls and women have an equal opportunity to learn, participate and lead, communities and societies prosper. Investing in girls’ education allows them to earn higher incomes, participate in the decisions that most affect them, and build better futures for themselves and their families. It contributes to more stable, resilient societies that give all individuals – including boys and men – the opportunity to fulfil their potential. But education for girls is about more than access to school. It’s also about girls feeling safe in classrooms and supported in the subjects and careers they choose to pursue. For young girls like Pavani, a 15-year-old student in the Badulla District, innovative educational approaches based on positive disciplining techniques have been instrumental for improving her well-being and academic performance. Initiatives like these are particularly important for girls as they foster an environment where they feel valued, respected, and motivated. By investing in safer learning environments that are more gender-responsive, the UN in Sri Lanka aims to ensure that girls are able engage actively in their education, leading to better outcomes and empowering them to pursue their dreams without limitations. Empowering women – one meal at a timeRuwani’s transformation from a struggling single mother to a successful school meal caterer exemplifies the immense potential of the national school meal programme. Escaping years of abuse at the hands of her partner, Ruwani experienced economic challenges, which were exacerbated during the economic crisis. The Government budget allocated per school meal proved insufficient in the face of soaring food prices, and caterers like Ruwani were operating at a loss. Eggs, among other food items, were in short supply and the school menu’s mandatory requirement of twice-weekly eggs seemed impossible to comply with. Ruwani found a lifeline through the UN’s Home Grown School Feeding project, which provided her with resources including chickens, feed and a shed to establish a poultry farm. Able to source eggs from her own backyard meant Ruwani was finally financially stable. The benefits were manifold, as Ruwani not only gained a sustainable source of income but was also able to help strengthen the school meal programme and provide children with fresh and nutritious food in school. Investing in ProgressIt is time that Sri Lanka prioritizes women’s empowerment and recognizes that gender equality is not only a matter of rights but the bedrock of an equitable, peaceful and prosperous society. However, it takes investment to build inclusive communities and societies with the full participation of women and girls from all backgrounds. This includes public and private investment in programmes to end violence against women, ensure decent work, and drive women’s inclusion and leadership across all sectors of government and the economy.Investing in women also includes actively addressing discrimination and ensuring laws, policies, budgets and investments that respond to their needs. Having women in positions of power can help to drive investment in policies and programmes that respond to women and girls’ realities. Men play a vital role in challenging and changing gender stereotypes and norms within families, communities, and workplaces. By advocating for gender equality, men can be powerful allies and create environments that value and leverage the talents of everyone, paving the way for sustainable development.
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01 March 2024
Mangrove Regeneration in Sri Lanka recognized as one of seven UN World Restoration Flagships
Mangrove forests play critical roles in Sri Lanka’s economy and climate resilience but are rapidly degrading due to climate change and pollution. A large-scale initiative to increase mangrove cover across Sri Lanka by more than 50 per cent was today named as one of seven UN World Restoration Flagships.The World Restoration Flagship awards are part of the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration – led by the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN (FAO) – which aims to prevent, halt, and reverse the degradation of ecosystems on every continent and in every ocean. The awards track notable initiatives following global commitments to restore one billion hectares – an area larger than China. Mangrove forests thrive along the border between land and sea and are the first line of defence for coastlines, reducing erosion from storm surges, currents, waves, and tides. Their intricate root system makes them attractive to fish and other organisms seeking nurseries, food, and shelter. This need for the ecosystem’s mitigating effect was dramatically stressed during the 2004 tsunami, which killed more than 30,000 people in Sri Lanka. The award for the Sri Lanka Mangrove Regeneration initiative was announced by UNEP Advocate for Life Under Water and actor, Jason Momoa. Following the tsunami, Sri Lanka led a mass-drive to plant mangroves. However, noticing that only approximately three per cent of the planted saplings survived, the country changed tactics: from planting mangroves to nurturing them. By creating the right conditions for mangroves to thrive, the plants started regenerating naturally. Ecosystem restoration on the island is now science-driven, co-led by local communities, and focused on restoring the natural balance in the ecosystem. Thanks to the country’s partnership with the Australian and UK governments, the focus on ensuring growth has already resulted in 500 hectares of newly restored mangroves since the initiative was founded in 2015.Today, this resilient and biodiverse ecosystem provides natural protection against climate change – including cyclones, floods, sea level rise, wave action and coastal erosion –as well as medicine, fish, and other food, especially in poorer communities.“As an island nation, mangroves are the first line of defence for us. Investing in restoration is investing in well-being, societal health and economic prosperity of Sri Lanka. It is also our contribution to global priorities and our deep understanding nurtured by living with nature, that all living beings, not just humans, share this wonderful ecosystem," said Mr. B.K Prabath Chandrakeerthi, Secretary, Ministry of Environment of Sri Lanka. In 2015, Sri Lanka became the first nation to legally protect all its mangrove forests and established the National Expert Committee on Mangrove Conservation and Sustainable Use, spurring several actions to protect and manage mangroves including new declarations under the legislations.In 2020, the Government of Sri Lanka adopted a National Policy on Conservation and Sustainable Utilization of Mangrove Ecosystems in Sri Lanka. To maintain the sustainability of the policy, the “National Strategic Action Plan for Conservation and Sustainable Utilization of Mangroves in Sri Lanka” was developed in 2022, complemented by National Guidelines. In 2022, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution sponsored by Sri Lanka to celebrate 1st of March as World Seagrass Day. Seagrasses are closely linked to mangroves and the health of the overall ocean ecosystem.Recognised as a World Restoration Flagship, Sri Lanka’s mangrove restoration drive is now eligible for technical and financial UN support. This will bring it closer to realize its 2030 goal of restoring 10,000 hectares of mangroves – more than 50 per cent of the country’s mangrove cover – benefiting 5,000 households and creating over 4,000 new jobs. “Mangroves are one of the planet’s most productive ecosystems. Sri Lanka’s unwavering commitment to their restoration is one of the best possible bargains to be made with nature,” said Inger Andersen, Executive Director of UNEP. “The country’s relentless work on perfecting the planting of mangroves shows how restoration must be a long-term investment. Sri Lanka’s experience is one which many other nations would do well to draw from.”Sri Lanka expects to be able to achieve its restoration 2030 goals with additional funding of USD 3.5 million to support livelihood activities, maintain restoration sites and restore channels, as well as cleaning and boundary management, awareness raising and calculation of the value of carbon sequestered by the restoration of mangroves. As a World Restoration Flagship, Sri Lanka’s mangrove restoration is recognized as one of the best examples of large-scale and long-term ecosystem restoration in any country or region, embodying the 10 Restoration Principles of the Restoration. The announcement of seven new World Restoration Flagships was made ahead of the 6th UN Environment Assembly (UNEA-6), held between February 26 and March 1, 2024. The Assembly will convene the world’s Environment Ministers in Nairobi, Kenya, to address the triple planetary crisis of climate change, nature and biodiversity loss, and pollution and waste.
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04 December 2023
In the words of P. Logeswary: “I will continue to fight for the rights of my people”
"When I was eight years old, my house was burned down during the ethnic riots, and I missed school for over three months. Ten years later, I attended workshops by women’s rights activists in the country. They inspired me, and for the last 25 years, I have devoted my life to activism on behalf of women, children, minorities and people in the plantation sector.
The Malaiyaga (a hill country Tamil community) has a 200-year history in Sri Lanka and despite making up over 4.7 percent of the country’s population, they continue to face a host of challenges.
Based on available data, at least 67 percent of the community still live in congested ‘line rooms’ established by colonial British planters. We must improve their living standards by abolishing the line room system and creating a strong housing plan with opportunities for land ownership.
Similarly, while 200 years have passed, the plantation sector health system has still not been fully integrated into the national health system. Equal access to healthcare is needed. At a policy level, changes have been made, yet these are vulnerable to alteration when systems change.
Another key issue facing the community is that nearly 8,000 people have lost their Employees' Trust Fund and Provident Fund money due to policy changes. A lot of people begin working at 14 or 15 years old and depend on that money for retirement. Many have passed away, yet their children cannot access that money. We filed a case at the Human Rights Commission, and they are now beginning to receive it.
“Sri Lanka should have a women’s commission and minority commission. They should be able to make direct complaints and secure justice. I am lobbying to make this happen”, said P. Logeswary, Programme Coordinator, Human Development Organization in Sri Lanka.
Language rights also remain unfulfilled. For instance, while people in the Nuwara Eliya District are mostly Tamil speaking, medical officers are mainly Sinhala speaking. This makes it difficult for them to convey their health issues accurately. Even medicine containers do not have information in Tamil. In public transport too, Tamil is not often used. Consider the plight of a woman working in the informal sector in Colombo. How will she recognise her bus to travel home if the bus sign is not in Tamil? Three languages should be used everywhere. These basic rights should be recognised by the state and private sector.
With the ongoing crises, early marriage and teenage pregnancies have also increased as schools closed and the economic crisis prompted parents to marry off their daughters of just 16 or 17 years. Child labour too started to increase again.
The state needs to monitor and support parents in overcoming hardships, and create economic opportunities. Equal access to education is important to enable generational progress through government or corporate jobs. In the plantation sector, the caste system also remains to be a challenge and because of this, many are voiceless with low bargaining power.
Sri Lanka has signed a number of international agreements including the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. These must be implemented at the local level to overcome the hardships of people in the plantation sector.
The Human Development Organization was established in 1990 by young plantation development workers. We lobby and advocate for policy changes to improve their living standards.
In 2003, Sri Lanka granted citizenship to 300,000 stateless people from the plantation sector. This was the culmination of decades of advocacy and lobbying on citizenship rights, with the support of civil society. It is the biggest milestone of our work.
We also engage in grassroots level mobilisation, particularly with women and youth. I personally oversee all programmes with an emphasis on the needs and challenges of women and children.
During the pandemic, we supported 350 to 500 small entrepreneurs to cultivate their own food. This is invaluable because when women are equipped to earn, they do not have to depend on others and can make their own decisions.
Sri Lanka should have a women’s commission and minority commission. They should be able to make direct complaints and secure justice.
I am lobbying to make this happen.
In my lifetime, I need to do something for my people, so I will continue to fight for their rights.”
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04 December 2023
In the words of Maryam: “We assist women at every level to get justice”
The trauma in my family inspired me to work for vulnerable women. My father left my mother and married another woman, providing us with no allowance or care. I grew up feeling the impact. My mother worked tirelessly in the paddy fields and then abroad to educate and care for us.
Despite being raised by our mother's hard work and warmth, we had to get our father’s permission to marry. Under Sri Lankan Muslim marriage law, a girl’s marriage is only valid if her father signs.
But my father said he would not take part in the wedding.
I was also affected when my husband ended our marriage, abandoning me and my child who has special needs. I dreamt of going to Mecca with my daughter, but I needed her father's permission to get her a passport. Yet, he had vanished.
So I went to the Quazi courts for a divorce. This is where the Muslim Marriage and Divorce Act (MMDA) is enforced. They questioned my reasons for the divorce and told me the village officer needed to confirm my husband’s absence. I suffered so much and wondered how other women who have been at home their whole lives would cope. This motivated me to do this work. I started in 2013, and since then, I have fought for the rights of women and girls.
Under Muslim marriage law, marriage can take place without a woman’s knowledge or consent. It can occur with the signature of the girl’s ‘Wali’ (male legal guardian). A family may force a girl to marry against her will.
Under the MMDA, there is no minimum marriage age. A man can legally marry a minor. I met a girl a few days ago who was married at 13. She had a child by 14.
People in rural areas do not register their marriages. A marriage is valid as long as the ‘Nikah’ (religious marriage ceremony) is performed. This makes it difficult to register children’s births. And if her husband abandons her, it becomes difficult for her to file a case.
A man can also divorce without providing a reason or a maintenance allowance. If the woman opts for divorce, she receives no allowance. Some Quazi courts say that even if the husband tries to kill her, the wife must live with him. All these issues result from outdated laws.
Women who do not work outside the home have no options for survival if their husbands leave. Some cannot even eat. One client shared how her husband even threw away the rice. Another took the firewood.
When a woman leaves a marriage, society rarely speaks of the husband’s flaws. Instead, they see problems in her. Some families do not recognise a woman who returns to her parents, no matter what happened.
After I went to the Quazi court for my case, I started helping other women there. My peers and I discussed their concerns and offered support. Some don’t know how to file a case, register a marriage, or what to do if their husband leaves. They face traumas like domestic violence.
We began to face objections. Rumours were spread that we were trying to eliminate Islamic practices. When we met women, husbands scolded and threatened us. Men called at night to harass us, and even followed us.
Still, we kept working.
A lack of clear documentation had meant pending cases were not being referred to the Quazi court. Because we handled documentation properly, they started to support us. Documents, letters and affidavits that had been defective for so long were now correct. It took time, but today, society understands us. Now, people are directed to us. They volunteer support. If we don't go to court, we get a call asking why we didn't come. Quazi judges inform us that there are divorce cases and we should speak for those women.
We assist women at every level to get justice. For example, if they have to go to the Magistrate's Court, we arrange for them to meet lawyers beforehand. As there is no process to provide psychologically distressed women with counselling at the Quazi court, we direct them to the Divisional Secretariat, where there are psychosocial officers.
We serve women every day. We also teach them what is in the law and what is in the religion and hold regular discussions.
The Quazi courts, which are mostly accessed by poor women, should be monitored. Many women in our village don’t go to the court, saying that they will not get justice, but be degraded.
A change in the law is needed.
I want a society where women lead better lives.
In my village, 15-year-old girls have faced the hardships of 45-year-old women because of early marriage. It shouldn’t be like that. Quazi courts should become courts that can maintain justice.
That is my dream”.
*The name has been changed to protect the identity of the individual.
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29 November 2023
In the words of Anushani Alagarajah: "As a human rights defender, you're almost expected to be superhuman”
'I don't know if I ever consciously decided to become a human rights defender. But when I was seven, there was a gang rape of a girl from our school. Her classmates held a sit-in protest. I didn't know what rape meant, but children living with conflict grow up fast. I wanted to protest too. If I see injustice, I want to speak up.
As a child, it was horrible to live in bunkers [during the conflict], to come out and see ashes. I've been in survival mode my entire life. Seeing what's happening in other countries, I worry that children will spend their entire lives trying to make sense of it, trying to be okay.
Grief is not only for people, it's also for a place you called home, that belonged to you. For me, it was always about the childhood I didn't have. I will probably be grieving that for the rest of my life.
I left Sri Lanka in 2009 to study in Bangladesh. I never wanted to come back. But from the time I left, I knew I had to return. I came home every summer, to conduct workshops with orphanages and conflict-affected communities.
I couldn’t run away. Afterall, I am from this community.
I was displaced thrice. I couldn’t sleep peacefully knowing I could have done something, and I didn't do it. I thought, “I can try to make things better.” So, I returned after finishing my studies in 2014. Since then, I have been living my purpose in the community.
Whether it is the economic crisis or a lack of opportunities, a lasting political solution requires the political will for change.
It's difficult when you come from a history of violence, conflict and trauma. During the conflict, a range of violent acts were committed against women.
Women bear the brunt of any damage, and are also expected to be the ones to rebuild, protecting the family unit, community and culture. Yet, particularly in the global South, women are not afforded resources.
Patriarchy is the norm.
Men can take a job in different places, access resources, work with men, divorce, remarry. Women cannot. They must provide out of nothing. Even though they suffered tragic, unspeakable experiences, they are still shackled by stereotypical expectations.
My own work is considered unfitting. I’m expected to be a good woman and get married. We are very far from being inclusive.
In the early days, I would try to talk to older activists about mental health, saying “I'm not doing okay”. But as a human rights defender, you're almost expected to be superhuman. I think being sensitive helps me do my job better because I look out for others.
For the last four years, when my office researches something difficult, we check in with everyone about how they feel. Whenever one of us needs support, the community will hold them, providing a safe space to be vulnerable or angry. It took a long time for me to find this community.
You cannot heal on your own.
With my colleagues, I run practical workshops to create the next generation of activists, training people in small communities and villages to advocate for their rights. We have participants pick an issue, ideate a solution and work with relevant stakeholders. For example, we have young participants who want to reclaim an occupied land in their village. They met the parliamentarian and the Divisional Secretary's Office and are now drafting a lease. If they have the courage and knowledge to do that at 20 years old, there is so much we can do. I'm always looking for a few people to take our struggle forward.
Sometimes, it only takes one person.
A wise woman once told me: “You will not see the changes you work for in your lifetime.” This helps put things in perspective. We can only chip at the corners so that one day, hopefully, things will be different. Giving up is not an option. We can’t stop now.”'
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Press Release
25 April 2024
Japan Provides US$ 3 Million Through FAO to Strengthen Inland Fisheries and Improve Rural Livelihoods in Sri Lanka
The US$ 3 million initiative will bolster food and nutritional security and fortify resilience by establishing four community operated mini hatcheries in Batticaloa, Mullaitivu, Anuradhapura and Monaragala districts, upgrade four NAQDA Aquaculture Development Centres and one community operated mini fish breeding centre to increase breeding and rearing capacity, enhance fingerling stocks in selected reservoirs, develop broodstock for breeding units and promote cage culture for seed rearing among fisher communities.The one-year project will also provide 3 live fish transportation trucks to NAQDA to transport fingerlings, integrate digital technology to inland fisheries, and enhance the technical capacities of officers and fishers in the production, management, processing and value addition of inland fisheries. In his speech, Ambassador Mizukoshi stressed “Japan and Sri Lanka, both island nations, share a deep-rooted appreciation for the importance of fisheries in our economies and cultures. Recognizing this shared significance, Japan has been steadfast in its commitment to supporting Sri Lanka's fisheries development, particularly in the maritime domain, since 2023. With the initiation of this new project alongside our continued efforts, Japan is committed to strengthening Sri Lanka's fisheries sector, thereby improving food security and livelihoods.”"Sri Lanka's inland fisheries sector has historically been supported by the government, contributing significantly to the nation's economy," remarked Hon. Douglas Devananda, Minister of Fisheries. "However, recent financial challenges have left the sector deprived of necessary resources, exacerbating hardships among inland fishing communities and rural populations. This project is a pivotal step towards revitalizing the sector and ensuring sustainable benefits for all stakeholders involved."The project aims to directly support approximately 3,000 inland fishers, 40 farmers engaged in mini hatchery operations, and 20 farmers specializing in fish feed preparation. Moreover, it is expected to have a positive ripple effect on indirect beneficiaries, including family members, consumers, producers of dry fish, and stakeholders in research and academia."Partnerships like these demonstrate the impact of collective action in driving sustainable development. At the United Nations, we are committed to fostering collaborations that empower communities and reinforce crucial sectors like inland fisheries. Through this project, we're not just promoting food security and rural livelihoods; we're also laying the groundwork for a resilient future for Sri Lanka's rural communities," said Mr. Marc-André Franche, UN Resident Coordinator for Sri Lanka."The significance of increasing inland fish production and ensuring the sustainability of the inland fisheries industry cannot be overstated," stated Mr Vimlendra Sharan, FAO Representative for Sri Lanka. "This project is not merely about enhancing food security; it's about uplifting livelihoods and fortifying the resilience of rural communities, particularly inland fisherfolk. The development of self-sustained culture-based fisheries in selected reservoirs is not just necessary; it's imperative for the betterment of these communities."FAO remains steadfast in its commitment to the successful implementation of this project, aiming to create lasting positive impacts on food security, livelihoods, and resilience in Sri Lanka's rural communities.
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Press Release
23 April 2024
Climate change and extreme weather impacts hit Asia hard
Asia remained the world’s most disaster-hit region from weather, climate and water-related hazards in 2023. Floods and storms caused the highest number of reported casualties and economic losses, whilst the impact of heatwaves became more severe, according to a new report from the World Meteorological Organization (WMO).The State of the Climate in Asia 2023 report highlighted the accelerating rate of key climate change indicators such as surface temperature, glacier retreat and sea level rise, which will have major repercussions for societies, economies and ecosystems in the region.In 2023, sea-surface temperatures in the north-west Pacific Ocean were the highest on record. Even the Arctic Ocean suffered a marine heatwave.
Asia is warming faster than the global average. The warming trend has nearly doubled since the 1961–1990 period.
“The report's conclusions are sobering. Many countries in the region experienced their hottest year on record in 2023, along with a barrage of extreme conditions, from droughts and heatwaves to floods and storms. Climate change exacerbated the frequency and severity of such events, profoundly impacting societies, economies, and, most importantly, human lives and the environment that we live in,” said WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo.
In 2023, a total of 79 disasters associated with hydro-meteorological hazard events were reported in Asia according to the Emergency Events Database. Of these, over 80% were related to flood and storm events, with more than 2 000 fatalities and nine million people directly affected. Despite the growing health risks posed by extreme heat, heat-related mortality is frequently not reported.
“Yet again, in 2023, vulnerable countries were disproportionately impacted. For example, tropical cyclone Mocha, the strongest cyclone in the Bay of Bengal in the last decade, hit Bangladesh and Myanmar. Early warning and better preparedness saved thousands of lives,” said Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana, Executive Secretary of the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), which partnered in producing the report.
“In this context, the State of the Climate in Asia 2023 report is an effort to bridge gaps between climate science and disaster risk through evidence-based policy proposals. ESCAP and WMO, working in partnership, will continue to invest in raising climate ambition and accelerating the implementation of sound policy, including bringing an early warning to all in the region so that no one is left behind as our climate change crisis continues to evolve,” she said.
Approximately 80% of WMO Members in the region provide climate services to support disaster risk reduction activities. However, less than 50% of Members provide climate projections and tailored products that are needed to inform risk management and adaptation to and mitigation of climate change and its impacts, according to the report.
The report, one of a series of WMO regional State of the Climate reports, was released during the 80th session of the Commission in Bangkok, Thailand. It is based on input from National Meteorological and Hydrological Services, United Nations partners and a network of climate experts. It reflects WMO’s commitment to prioritize regional initiatives and inform decision-making.
Asia is warming faster than the global average. The warming trend has nearly doubled since the 1961–1990 period.
“The report's conclusions are sobering. Many countries in the region experienced their hottest year on record in 2023, along with a barrage of extreme conditions, from droughts and heatwaves to floods and storms. Climate change exacerbated the frequency and severity of such events, profoundly impacting societies, economies, and, most importantly, human lives and the environment that we live in,” said WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo.
In 2023, a total of 79 disasters associated with hydro-meteorological hazard events were reported in Asia according to the Emergency Events Database. Of these, over 80% were related to flood and storm events, with more than 2 000 fatalities and nine million people directly affected. Despite the growing health risks posed by extreme heat, heat-related mortality is frequently not reported.
“Yet again, in 2023, vulnerable countries were disproportionately impacted. For example, tropical cyclone Mocha, the strongest cyclone in the Bay of Bengal in the last decade, hit Bangladesh and Myanmar. Early warning and better preparedness saved thousands of lives,” said Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana, Executive Secretary of the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), which partnered in producing the report.
“In this context, the State of the Climate in Asia 2023 report is an effort to bridge gaps between climate science and disaster risk through evidence-based policy proposals. ESCAP and WMO, working in partnership, will continue to invest in raising climate ambition and accelerating the implementation of sound policy, including bringing an early warning to all in the region so that no one is left behind as our climate change crisis continues to evolve,” she said.
Approximately 80% of WMO Members in the region provide climate services to support disaster risk reduction activities. However, less than 50% of Members provide climate projections and tailored products that are needed to inform risk management and adaptation to and mitigation of climate change and its impacts, according to the report.
The report, one of a series of WMO regional State of the Climate reports, was released during the 80th session of the Commission in Bangkok, Thailand. It is based on input from National Meteorological and Hydrological Services, United Nations partners and a network of climate experts. It reflects WMO’s commitment to prioritize regional initiatives and inform decision-making.
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Press Release
08 April 2024
Safeguarding democracy by combatting hate speech and disinformation
In the last decade, hatred and misinformation on social media have contributed to violence across the world. When the UN Secretary-General launched his Plan of Action on Hate Speech in 2019, he said “public discourse is being weaponized for political gain with incendiary rhetoric that stigmatizes and dehumanizes…”. In Sri Lanka for example, a mounting campaign of disinformation led to the Digana anti-Muslim riots of 2018 resulting in at least three deaths, over 20 injuries, and the destruction of around 50 homes and businesses. Facebook issued a statement apologizing for its role in fueling the violence.According to the UN Special Rapporteur on Minority Issues, 70% of social media hate victims globally are minorities. In Sri Lanka according to UN data, 51% of harmful speech online last year targeted women and 24% minorities. Through collaboration with tech companies and active efforts of local organizations, targeted online campaigns against minorities have decreased since 2021 — an encouraging trend. However, anti-Christian, anti-Muslim and anti-Hindu sentiments persist alongside harmful speech targeting women, especially those occupying public functions or those speaking up publicly. Furthermore, events such as the Covid-19 pandemic and the war in Gaza have led to spikes in harmful speech online targeting specific communities, notably Muslims.While recent elections in Sri Lanka have been free of major violence and are considered free and fair, they remain a strong vehicle for hate speech and disinformation which has led to tensions, and at times violence. The nation’s history serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of weaponizing hate speech and disinformation leading up to and during elections. Resort to hate speech and disinformation tends to be higher when elections are more contested especially when those elections evolve in a context of increased poverty levels and real or perceived hardships or grievances, notably related to corruption, rule of law, truth and reconciliation.Misuse of information deepens societal divide and hate speech creates an environment that encourages self-censorship, fosters uncertainty and instability. Sri Lanka cannot afford this. In addressing this complex challenge, the solution lies not in restricting free speech, but rather in nurturing information accessibility, transparency and responsible discourse. Doing so effectively requires a comprehensive approach.First and foremost, transparency is a pivotal factor. Government institutions must cultivate an environment of open communication, actively disseminating information and engaging in dialogue with the public. This not only builds trust but also empowers citizens to hold their elected representatives accountable. It also creates better and more effective laws and policies. Empowering individuals and communities is key. Public education initiatives can impart citizens with the skills needed to critically evaluate information, identify and debunk disinformation, and engage in respectful communication. This empowerment cultivates responsible online citizenship and strengthens social cohesion.The Election Commission plays a significant role in this process. Concerns arise regarding the enforcement of campaign finance laws when advertising is conducted via social media platforms. The potential use of deep fakes during elections to disseminate electoral disinformation and hate speech further exacerbates these concerns. Identifying these trends and challenges in advance and enhancing the Commission’s capacity to respond effectively safeguards democracy and peace.By fostering a culture of responsible communication within the political sphere, we can contribute to fair and constructive electoral processes that prioritize the public’s right to accurate and unbiased information. In tandem, political parties and candidates may choose to adopt a voluntary code of ethics, urging their contestants to refrain from using hate speech and disinformation in campaigns.Recognizing the pivotal role of media ethics, we can’t emphasize enough the responsibility of editors and journalists in countering electoral disinformation and hate speech. By upholding the principles of accuracy, impartiality and fairness, journalists can play a crucial role in shaping public discourse and safeguarding the democratic process. Media houses and social media platforms, through self-regulation, coupled with public awareness campaigns, can promote the responsible use of communication channels, and discourage the dissemination of hate speech and disinformation. This strategy encourages a culture of responsible dialogue and self-awareness in reporting, safeguarding free speech against misuse.The private sector can play a key role in fostering inclusive workplace cultures to encourage different viewpoints, promoting ethical advertising practices and refrain from funding or promoting content that propagates hate speech and misinformation, supporting media literacy programs and investing in tech to educate citizens to critically engage with information. Tech companies in partnership with local civil society need to have increased capacity to flag and remove misinformation and harmful content quickly which requires more resources, especially during elections, capable of moderating in local languages. We applaud those companies who signed the voluntary code of conduct through the Asia Internet Coalition and encourage those who have not to join the effort.Recognizing the delicate balance between preserving free speech and shielding individuals and communities from harmful content is crucial. Self-regulation and awareness is more effective than resorting to restrictive laws. They often remain difficult to implement and open to arbitrary enforcement targeting communities and those with opposing opinions, which only fosters more resentment. Prioritizing open access to information, fostering transparency and empowering citizens can create an environment where free speech thrives without succumbing to the corrosive influences of hate speech and disinformation. This collective effort necessitates a broad societal commitment. The United Nations stand ready to support this effort, building on the analysis and accompaniment it has provided so far to local organizations.The impending elections provide an opportunity for the country. Let us choose words that construct bridges, not walls, and ensure a truly informed and empowered electorate.
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Press Release
19 February 2024
Governments from Asia and the Pacific gather to review lessons learned from pandemic and environmental crises and transform agrifood systems for present and future generations
Government policymakers from across the vast Asia and Pacific region are meeting here this week to agree a pathway to reform their agrifood systems and accelerate recovery from pandemic and environmental crises, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), reported today.
Government Ministers and Heads of Delegation from as many as 46 FAO Member Nations have gathered in the Sri Lankan capital for the opening of the 37th Ministerial Session of the FAO Regional Conference for Asia and the Pacific (APRC37). The APRC37 is hosted by the Government of Sri Lanka.
The FAO Director-General, Dr QU Dongyu, is leading a delegation from FAO headquarters in Rome to participate in the four-day forum. He will make a Statement to Conference on the second (Inaugural) day of the APRC37. It’s anticipated the President of Sri Lanka, Ranil Wickremesinghe, will also speak during the morning of the Inaugural Day (20 Feb).
Many challenges remain to fight hunger, poverty and inequalities
The global pandemic and years of environmental crises have hit this region disproportionately hard, with economic progress and individual livelihoods regressed, and floods, droughts and tropical storms badly affecting agricultural production in some parts of the region that are least resilient.
Meantime, hunger and other forms of malnutrition persist, with nearly 371 million people in Asia-Pacific who are undernourished. At the same time, the increasing cost of a healthy diet is leaving many families unable to afford one.
Given the setbacks over the last two years, and the decline in progress in the fight against hunger that preceded the pandemic, it is essential to transform the region’s food systems so that they become more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable, the Conference delegates heard during today’s opening session.
Evidence-based science, innovation and technology point the way forward
In order for FAO Member Nations to accelerate this Agrifood Systems Transformation, three pathways were proposed.
First, by identifying triggers of foresight, shaping, fine-tuning, and implementing food systems transformation pathways through the process fostered by the UN Food Systems Summit 2021, and the follow-up to that Summit, the ‘Stock Taking Moment’ convened last year.
Second, to end hunger there must be much more investment and financing for such a transformation – both from governments and from the private sector and other international financial institutions.
And finally, the region needed to build resilience in its plant, livestock, fisheries, and forestry sectors, while promoting nature-based solutions and emphasizing science, innovation and digitalization in communities large and small while disseminating climate and energy-smart agricultural practices.
The Ministers and Heads of Delegation will participate in a number of roundtable discussions. One is focusing on lessons learned from the pandemic and its impact on food security and nutrition, another on modernization and digitization for smallholders in aquaculture and livestock, building resilience through agrifood systems transformation, the need for investment and financing for poverty reduction and modernization, and another on saving food and water and reducing food loss and waste.
During the APRC37, a Special Ministerial Meeting for Small Island Developing States (SIDS), Least Developed Countries (LDCs), and Land Locked Developing Countries (LLDCs) will be held, with many Ministers from Pacific Island nations participating.
Another special ministerial event on the final day of APRC37 will focus on Agrotourism in Asia and the Pacific, and how it can accelerate rural development and enhance livelihoods.
Civil Society Organizations and the private sector have also been invited to speak at the conference.
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Press Release
05 February 2024
High-level international UN FAO conference convenes to guide recovery and reforms of agrifood systems in Asia-Pacific for future food security
31/01/2024, Colombo, Sri Lanka – A major multilateral conference opened today in the Sri Lankan capital Colombo which aims to transform the Asia-Pacific region’s agrifood systems, after multiple human and economic crises have set back progress to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those to end hunger and poverty and reduce inequalities (SDGs 2, 1, 10).
FAO’s 37th Session of the Regional Conference for Asia and the Pacific (#APRC37) marks a major international, multilateral milestone in an effort to reform agrifood systems across the Asia-Pacific region, after years of pandemic, climate emergencies, volatile markets and economies that have negatively affected millions of producers, farmers, fishers, pastoralists and consumers. The #APRC37 is convened by FAO’s Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific and hosted by the Government of Sri Lanka. The two-part conference began today, with a Senior Officials Meeting which will conclude Friday, 1 February. A Ministerial Session, with Ministers arriving from across the vast region, will follow on 19-22 February, also in Colombo.
The stakes are high, but there’s little time to lose.
The stakes to end hunger, poverty and inequality in the world’s largest region are higher now than any time in recent decades.
“We are currently going through a period of convergent crises. The long term and deep socio-economic impacts of the pandemic on food security and livelihoods have become obvious. But these are being accentuated by conflicts, the effects of climate change, environmental pollution, multiple hazards and risks, including trans-boundary pests and diseases and loss of biodiversity which are particularly affecting agricultural production,” said Jong-Jin Kim, Assistant Director-General and FAO Regional Representative in opening remarks.
The latest Asia and the Pacific Regional Overview of Food Security and Nutrition, published in December 2023, shows that nearly 371 million people are undernourished in this region and this represents half of the world’s undernourished. Nearly 24 percent of the population suffer from moderate or severe food insecurity with women tending to be more food insecure than men.
Stunting among children under 5 years of age, with a prevalence of 23.4 percent, continues to be a public health problem in the region despite the declining trend from 2000.
In recent years, the average cost of a healthy diet in the region has risen to $4.15 per person per day on purchasing power parity basis. Almost 45 percent of the Asia-Pacific population, or 1.9 billion people, cannot afford a healthy diet.
“We realize that given the setbacks over the last two years and the decline in progress in the fight against hunger precedes the pandemic, and so it is important to reshape our food systems so they become more efficient, inclusive, resilient and sustainable,” Kim said. “Transforming global agrifood systems is very much the climate solution and effectively contributes to ensuring food availability, accessibility and affordability.”
Delegates at the APRC heard that FAO is encouraging the mobilization of investment – external and internal – to end hunger and achieve SDG2. FAO is also assisting countries to promote tailored investment plans for
poverty reduction including social protection; fighting food loss and waste and conserving water; building adaptive capacities and collectively responding to specific needs of the Small Island Developing States (SIDS), Landlocked Developing Countries and Least Developed Countries.
The Organization, on behalf of its Members, is also building resilience in the plant, livestock, fisheries and forestry sectors; promoting nature-based solutions; emphasizing science, innovation and digitalization and disseminating climate and energy-smart agricultural practices.
Following the deliberations on these issues by the Senior Officials, a Ministerial Session from the region’s Member Nation’s will convene for high-level talks during a series of roundtable discussions. The FAO’s Director-General, Dr QU Dongyu will also participate in-person during the Ministerial Session.
When it concludes, the 37th Session of the FAO Regional Conference for Asia and the Pacific will have outlined a pathway toward a full recovery from the pandemic and other converging crises of recent years, and ways to rebuild and transform the region’s agrifood systems, delivered through better production, better nutrition, a better environment and leading to a better life for all – leaving no one behind.
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