In a decisive move toward fostering inclusive governance, a recent high-level panel discussion hosted by the Federation of Local Government Authorities (FSLGA) brought together policymakers, activists, and former council members to address the critical need for increased participation of women and youth in Sri Lankan politics. The program served as a platform to evaluate the impact of existing legislative quotas, identify persistent barriers to political engagement, and generate actionable strategies for building a more representative political landscape. The forum titled, “Hetata Ratata Pilithuru” highlighted the transformative potential of women and young leaders in shaping equitable, forward-thinking policies that respond to the needs of all citizens.
Advancing Meaningful Representation in Politics
While the 25 percent quota for women and youth in local government has led to measurable gains, including the election of over 1,900 women between 2018 and 2023, panelists agreed that quotas alone are not sufficient. True representation requires deeper structural reforms, sustained political will, and inclusive party policies. Speakers emphasized the importance of moving from symbolic inclusion to substantive participation by creating enabling environments that support women and youth in leadership roles.
Tackling Barriers to Political Participation
The discussion shed light on the social, cultural, and economic barriers that continue to limit political participation for women and youth. Gender-based discrimination, lack of financial resources, and restricted access to decision-making spaces remain significant challenges. Participants called for targeted awareness campaigns, legal protections, and community-based initiatives to dismantle stereotypes and foster inclusive political engagement—especially for young women in rural and marginalized communities.
Empowering Future Leaders Through Training and Reform
To build a sustainable pipeline of female and youth leaders, the panel highlighted the need for comprehensive capacity-building efforts. Structured training programs, mentorship networks, and reforms within political party structures were identified as key strategies to empower new voices in governance. The discussion also encouraged the use of digital platforms to reach and mobilize young leaders, alongside promoting male allyship and a cultural shift toward more collaborative, inclusive political practices.
Achievements and Impact
The introduction of the 25 percent quota for women in local government has been a pivotal step in enhancing gender representation in Sri Lankan politics. While symbolic in its early stages, the quota has laid the groundwork for a broader conversation on structural reform and meaningful political participation. Over 1,900 women have secured council seats since 2018, reflecting growing awareness and a shift toward inclusivity. Continued advocacy and public discourse have brought gender-based discrimination into focus, encouraging legal reforms and greater societal accountability. Awareness campaigns targeting communities and political stakeholders have contributed to breaking down stereotypes and challenging the systemic barriers women face in governance. Youth engagement has gained traction through targeted leadership and mentorship programs that address financial and institutional obstacles. These initiatives aim to equip young leaders with the skills, networks, and resources needed to participate confidently in political processes, especially at the local level. Efforts to expand political awareness in rural and underserved have led to increased interest and participation among women and youth. Public engagement initiatives, often supported by civil society organizations, are helping to create a more informed electorate and a more accessible political space. The discussion emphasized the importance of embracing political conflict as a tool for constructive change. Encouraging diverse perspectives and inclusive decision-making is fostering a culture of open dialogue, innovation, and shared leadership, essential components of a resilient and representative political system.
Paving the Way for Inclusive Political Leadership
This panel discussion served as a timely and powerful reminder of the importance of inclusive governance in Sri Lanka’s democratic journey. By amplifying the voices of women and youth, the event highlighted the need for sustained reforms, capacity-building, and cultural transformation within political structures. While progress has been made through legislative quotas and community engagement, lasting impact will depend on the continued collaboration of policymakers, civil society, and citizens. Building a truly representative political future means not just making space at the table,but making sure everyone has a real voice and a chance to be heard.