The National Peace Council

The conclusion of the international Walk for Peace led by Most Venerable Bhikkhu Thich Paññākāra from Vietnam, that took place in Sri Lanka on April 21-18 generated interest and discussion across the country about the importance of peacebuilding and coexistence in the country. The public response to the walk, including support extended by people from different religious and ethnic communities, showed that there is much space within society for initiatives that encourage dialogue, restraint and mutual respect.

The National Peace Council believes this positive response should be used constructively, while recognising that reconciliation in Sri Lanka remains a long term challenge. More than seven decades of political conflict, ethnic polarisation, violence and mistrust cannot be overcome through symbolic events alone. Lasting reconciliation requires sustained political engagement, institutional reform and consistent efforts to build trust among communities. The underlying political issues linked to power sharing, equality, representation and accountability cannot be postponed indefinitely if reconciliation is to move forward in a meaningful way.

In this context, the holding of Provincial Council elections has become increasingly important. The demand made by opposition parties and civil society groups for these elections reflects the wider concern that democratic institutions linked to devolution and local representation need to be revitalised. The continued delay in holding these elections limits opportunities for inclusive governance, particularly in areas most affected by conflict. NPC believes that the government should take steps to engage all political parties, civil society organisations and communities on the way forward regarding devolution, power sharing and democratic participation.

The Walk for Peace should therefore be viewed not as an end in itself, or as a stand-alone event, but as one contribution within a much larger national process. Future peacebuilding initiatives needs to involve broader participation by civil society organisations, inter religious groups, youth organisations, educators and local communities, including stronger engagement with the North and East where the impact of war continues to shape public attitudes and political realities. Continued efforts towards dialogue, democratic participation and political inclusion are needed if the country is to move towards a more stable and peaceful future.

Governing Council

The National Peace Council is an independent and non partisan organization that works towards a negotiated political solution to the ethnic conflict in Sri Lanka. It has a vision of a peaceful and prosperous Sri Lanka in which the freedom, human rights and democratic rights of all the communities are respected. The policy of the National Peace Council is determined by its Governing Council of 20 members who are drawn from diverse walks of life and belong to all the main ethnic and religious communities in the country.