Common Social Issues

1. Governance and Political Reform

Context:

Sri Lanka has faced recurring governance challenges, including political instability, corruption, and economic mismanagement. The CBCSL views systemic reform as a key to solving the nation’s social and economic crises.

CBCSL’s Stance:

• Advocates for a complete overhaul of the political and administrative system to alleviate the hardships faced by ordinary citizens.
• Calls for accountability and transparency in governance.
• Stresses the importance of leadership that prioritizes public welfare over political gains.
• Highlights the necessity of policies that serve the common good and empower citizens.

Action:

Through pastoral letters and public statements, the CBCSL has encouraged citizens to push for democratic reforms and emphasized ethical governance rooted in justice and equity.

2. Justice for Easter Sunday Attack Victims

Context:

The 2019 Easter Sunday bombings killed over 250 people and left the nation in shock. The attack exposed significant security lapses and potential political manipulation.

CBCSL’s Stance:

• Advocates for justice and truth for the victims and survivors.
• Criticizes delays in legal proceedings and the lack of transparency in investigations.
• Urges the government to identify and hold accountable those responsible, including individuals implicated in negligence or conspiracy.

Action:

The bishops have regularly highlighted this issue in sermons, public appeals, and legal forums, keeping the plight of the victims in the national consciousness.

3. Economic Challenges and Poverty Alleviation

Context:

Sri Lanka’s economic crisis, marked by soaring inflation, unemployment, and food shortages, has disproportionately affected the marginalized.

CBCSL’s Stance:

• Expresses deep concern over the rising cost of living and widespread poverty.
• Urges leaders to focus on addressing basic human needs, including food, shelter, healthcare, and education.
• Promotes social justice by calling for equitable resource distribution.

Action:

• Mobilizes church resources to provide relief through food distribution, livelihood support, and skills development programs.
• Advocates for long-term solutions, including sustainable development and financial reforms.

4. Electoral Integrity and Leadership

Context:

Political corruption and weak leadership have plagued Sri Lanka’s governance structure.

CBCSL’s Stance:

• Encourages voters to choose wise, courageous, and ethical leaders during elections.
• Stresses the importance of free and fair elections as a means to restore public trust in the democratic process.
• Opposes vote-buying and other forms of electoral malpractice.

Action:

CBCSL has launched voter education campaigns, urging citizens to recognize the value of their votes and the impact of choosing leaders committed to the nation’s welfare.

5. Social Harmony and Minority Rights

Context:

Sri Lanka is a multi-ethnic and multi-religious society, yet religious and ethnic minorities often face discrimination and marginalization.

CBCSL’s Stance:

• Advocates for equal rights and dignity for all citizens, irrespective of religion or ethnicity.
• Calls for the protection of minority cultures, languages, and traditions.
• Emphasizes interfaith dialogue as a means of fostering mutual respect and understanding.

Action:

• Facilitates community-based programs promoting reconciliation and inclusivity.
• Engages with political leaders to ensure minorities are treated with fairness and respect in policymaking.

6. Environmental and Social Justice

Context:

Environmental degradation, including deforestation and pollution, has severe implications for communities, particularly the poor.

CBCSL’s Stance:

• Advocates for ecological conservation and sustainable development practices.
• Calls for policies that address climate change and protect natural resources.

Action:

• Promotes environmental awareness campaigns.
• Collaborates with organizations like Caritas Sri Lanka to support reforestation, water conservation, and organic farming.

7. Justice for the Plantation Community

Context:

Plantation workers, predominantly of Indian Tamil descent, face poor working conditions, low wages, and limited access to healthcare and education.

CBCSL’s Stance:

• Highlights the socioeconomic injustices faced by plantation workers.
• Advocates for their integration into mainstream society with equal opportunities.

Action:

• Engages in advocacy to improve wages and living conditions.
• Supports initiatives to enhance access to education, healthcare, and housing for plantation communities.