National security think tank launches ‘Threat Lens’

The Institute of National Security Studies Sri Lanka (INSSSL) held its first ‘Threat Lens’, a closed roundtable discussion at the Ministry of Defence on 9 February with the participation of a number of high level government officials, scholars and policy makers. 

The topic selected for discussion was ‘Large Scale Foreign Projects and Security implications in South Asia’. This is especially important as large scale foreign projects are becoming increasingly important and play a pivotal role in the Sri Lankan economy. While being a catalyst for the nation’s economic development and stability, the origin and objectives of certain foreign investments carry with them risks and threats. Sri Lanka therefore requires sound official supervision to persuade private investors to take national security considerations into account when making business decisions. Consequently, the increase in large scale foreign projects have caused a major debate between the ‘freedom of investment’ and concerns of national security.

INSSSL Director General Asanga Abeyagoonasekera made the opening remarks bringing to the fore that thus far there has been no input or study on the impact large scale strategic projects could have on national security. Hence a foresight analysis should be conducted in consideration of the long-term security threats to a nation. Presentations were made by the Institute’s Research Analyst with a video recording by Dr. Rohan Gunaratna from the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, Singapore. Ranuk Mendis, INSSSL’s Analyst provided examples of several models used in other nations such as China, when deciding on strategic foreign projects where as a first step, it would be imperative that security clearance be taken. The valuable input by the Institute was greatly appreciated by the audience. 

Following this, there ensued a very productive discussion with useful and informative perspective and recommendations on the topic, both in favour of and against Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). A senior government official explained the importance of strict guidelines with the suggestion that INSSSL could provide input for such projects in the future. There was also concern about foreign workers who arrive in the guise of tourists and integrate themselves into numerous industries both in urban and rural areas. This could create situations of social conflict. 

Another issue highlighted was international agencies registering persons as ‘asylum seekers’ whose whereabouts are not monitored and some of these persons are even a health hazard and therefore has implications for security. An important point was that with the undocumented number of persons entering Sri Lanka, the country could even be used as a training hub for terrorism. The general sentiments however, were that the government should encourage FDIs whilst exercising caution when engaging and entering into agreements with foreign investors. Inter-agency cooperation on guidelines and using FDIs for the country’s benefit were some of the suggestions in this regard. 

The event was very well received by all those present with feedback to ensure its continuity with similar discussions in the future.