As another turbulent year comes to a closure, most Sri Lankans find themselves reflecting on the trials that they endured over the past few years. 

The past few years were filled with challenges. It started with the Covid-19 pandemic which brought all affairs of the country to a standstill. The economic crisis came next, which reached its peak in 2022 and resulted in long-lasting impacts on the economy and the public. Amidst political, social, and economic challenges, this year, the country saw both promising and disheartening developments. The national-level crises that have triggered long-term, complex challenges took a significant toll on individuals, households, communities, and the public. Among them, the elderly, the young, other groups living with inadequate resources, and those living with disabilities were disproportionately affected. Nutrition and healthcare became expensive commodities for many and seemed to be growing out of reach. These challenges weakened us at times, but in face of hardship, they also made us strong. 

However, the country is now ready to enter the New Year with the good news that Sri Lanka’s efforts aimed at economic revival have been internationally recognised. There seems to be some light at the end of the tunnel, provided that the country makes sure that it does not repeat the mistakes of the past. The suffering and uncertainty that we collectively endured should be considered a lesson that teaches us how to take the future steps carefully and collectively as one nation. As we are getting closer to Christmas and the New Year, we would like to urge our readers to reflect on the path that we travelled and survived during the past few years, look at the lessons that we learnt or are yet to learn, and take pride in our efforts, patience, and strengths.

As the country enters the new year with this cautious optimism, it is also crucial for the people not to wait idly for the Government’s reforms to take full effect, because the path to recovery and progress lies not only in top-down policy changes but also in the collective action of its citizens. Every individual, every community, and every organisation has a role to play in building a more resilient future. People must take ownership of their lives, and extend their strength to local initiatives, small-scale businesses, and community-driven projects that can uplift society as a whole. It is in these grassroots efforts that the spirit of unity and hope can be found. In doing so, being respectful of opposing views and being considerate of the many cultures which join to form our lovely tapestry, is ever more important. Sri Lankans need to forage an ‘Sri Lankan’ identity which our future generations can rally around. 

Moreover, as citizens actively engage in these efforts, they must continue to hold themselves accountable to the lessons learned from the past. Sustainable development, transparency and accountability, equitable access to resources, and social cohesion should remain central. It is crucial that the public draw on the strength and patience that they have exhibited in difficult times to improve their participation in community-building initiatives and economic recovery programmes. The state cannot do it all, and should not have to, there is a role for everyone to play. Whether it is through collaboration with local businesses, supporting sustainable agriculture, or contributing to education and health programmes, each effort can help the country rise stronger.

The Government has to shoulder a majority of responsibility in this process. This, despite the new Government lacking legacy governance experience. We hope that those at the helm of the governing process have steady hands, a sharp mind, and foresight to navigate Sri Lanka into a better future. The Government – on which the majority of the population depends, should create an environment that supports collective action among and with the people. This includes making scientifically informed, practical, and people-friendly decisions that prioritise the wellbeing of the citizens and puts Sri Lankan interest first. The Government should invest in policies that encourage and empower local communities, and create opportunities for sustainable growth. By supporting grassroots initiatives and ensuring that reforms are inclusive, transparent, and aligned with the people's interests, the Government can facilitate a brighter future for Sri Lanka.