Prime Minister calls for urgent action to address barriers and discrimination against women

Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya on Saturday called for swift and decisive action to eliminate the barriers, challenges, and discrimination faced by women in Sri Lanka and around the world. 

In her keynote address at the International Women’s Day celebration organised by the United Nations Association in Sri Lanka, held at the Sri Lanka Foundation Institute in Colombo, Dr. Amarasuriya emphasised the importance of protecting all women, regardless of their socio-economic background, education level, ethnicity, religion, disability, or personal identity. 

During the event, awards were presented to women who have made significant contributions to society in various fields.

She highlighted Sri Lanka’s rich history of strong women who have shaped the nation’s progress, many of whom were present at the event.

“Women are leading transformational change in politics, business, and social movements. Our Government has introduced various policies and programs to support and empower women. The 2024 Women’s Empowerment Act is a major step forward, establishing an Independent National Women’s Commission to institutionalise gender equality,” she said.

The Prime Minister noted that the Government is focusing on increasing women’s participation in the workforce through entrepreneurship and digital financial literacy programs, particularly for rural women. Additionally, nine Ministries have been established to uplift both women and the nation’s economy. Several initiatives were also incorporated into the recent national Budget to support this vision.

Despite progress, Dr. Amarasuriya acknowledged that women’s representation in leadership, decision-making, and economic sectors remains disproportionately low.

“While the percentage of women in Parliament has doubled, it still stands at just 10%. Women’s participation in the formal workforce is only 32%, significantly lower than that of men. We need to create an environment where women are encouraged to lead and actively participate in shaping policies,” she pointed out.

She also addressed the societal expectation that women must balance professional and domestic responsibilities, often without adequate support. She emphasised the need for families and society to recognise and respect women’s choices while acknowledging the critical role of unpaid caregivers.

Dr. Amarasuriya stressed that gender-based violence and discrimination remain significant issues that require immediate legal and social reforms.

“The journey towards gender equality cannot be undertaken in isolation. As a country committed to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals – particularly Goal 5 on Gender Equality – we must foster strong global partnerships and take meaningful steps towards women’s empowerment,” she added.

Dr. Amarasuriya asserted that women’s empowerment must go beyond policy discussions and translate into tangible actions that ensure their active participation in national development. She also acknowledged the United Nations in Sri Lanka for its continued role as an adviser and advocate for women’s rights.

The Prime Minister reiterated the need for effective measures to eliminate barriers and discrimination against women, both locally and globally.

The event was attended by several high-profile figures, including Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism Minister Vijitha Herath, United Nations Association of Sri Lanka Secretary-General M.M. Rushaudeen, Assistant Secretary-General Panchali Ratnayake, and other distinguished guests.