Sri Lankan government officially withdrew its support for a campaign aimed at promoting the country as an inclusive destination for LGBTQ+ tourists.
Posted on February 14th, 2026

Sri Lanka News

In February 2026, the Sri Lankan government officially withdrew its support for a campaign aimed at promoting the country as an inclusive destination for LGBTQ+ tourists. This reversal followed intense pressure from influential religious leaders, including senior Buddhist monks and the head of the Catholic Church in Sri Lanka. 

The decision impacted the following areas:

  • Policy Withdrawal: The Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) rescinded a letter of support for a project proposed by the advocacy group Equal Ground, which sought to market the island as a safe and welcoming destination for diverse travellers.
  • Religious Opposition: Prominent figures, such as Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith and leaders of the three main Buddhist monastic chapters, argued that promoting such tourism undermined the nation’s moral and cultural heritage.
  • Legal Context: The Attorney General confirmed the withdrawal during a court hearing for a writ petition filed by citizens who claimed the initiative was unconstitutional and encouraged “unethical” behaviour.
  • Impact on Image: While tourism officials originally viewed the project as a way to diversify markets and boost foreign exchange, the government ultimately prioritised alignment with national traditional values. 

Would you like more details on the current safety advisories for travelers or information on Sri Lanka’s general tourism targets for 2026?

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