From Youth to the Next President: A Vision for Sri Lanka’s Future
The Liberal Youth Movement of Sri Lanka presents this vision for governance, articulating our expectations for the next president and the future of our nation. We outline key priorities and policy directions that we believe are essential for Sri Lanka’s progress towards a free, just, prosperous, and unified society. Our blueprint addresses fundamental rights, rule of law, economic reforms, and equitable development, emphasizing national unity, environmental sustainability, and individual freedoms. We call for transparency, accountability, and effective governance to build a Sri Lanka where every citizen can thrive.
The Liberal Youth Movement is a non-aligned, non-partisan organization dedicated to enhancing political literacy and fostering an inclusive society through liberal democratic values. We strive to empower young citizens, encouraging critical thinking and active participation in shaping Sri Lanka’s future.
- National Unity and Social Cohesion
- Foster a unified national identity that transcends divisions based on religion, race, gender, socioeconomic status, or geographic location.
- Implement policies that foster inclusivity and discourage divisive rhetoric, especially during election periods.
- Develop educational programs emphasizing shared national values, aspirations, and mutual respect.
- Enhancement of Fundamental Rights and Human Dignity
- Strengthen and broaden constitutional protections for fundamental rights to ensure a dignified life for all individuals.
- Implement policies to address economic, social, and cultural rights.
- Ensure equal protection under the law regardless of personal characteristics or beliefs.
- Enhance law enforcement practices to respect and protect human rights.
- Strengthening the Rule of Law
- Reduce centralization of power through effective checks and balances.
- Strengthen judicial independence through institutional safeguards.
- Improve the affordability and accessibility of the legal system.
- Address case backlogs and streamline court processes.
- Strengthen the legal aid system.
- Independent Prosecution System
- Establish an independent prosecutor’s office separate from the Attorney General.
- Draw inspiration from successful models in other common law jurisdictions.
- Implement measures to increase public trust in the justice system.
- Anti-Corruption and Transparency Measures
- Implement robust anti-corruption legislation and enforcement mechanisms.
- Enhance transparency in government operations and public procurement.
- Strengthen the role and independence of anti-corruption agencies.
- Economic Reforms for Inclusive Growth
- Implement transparent, market-based energy pricing.
- Ensure projects align with the National Fiscal Plan and undergo feasibility studies.
- Maintain sustainable government expenditure levels.
- Promote free trade and fair competition.
- Maintain Central Bank independence and avoid deficit financing through money printing.
- Implement SOE reforms to improve efficiency and competitiveness.
- Strengthen tax administration system
- Inclusive Development and Equal Opportunities
- Implement policies to ensure equal opportunities for all, including women, disabled individuals, the LGBTQ+ community, rural populations, and plantation workers.
- Develop targeted programs to address challenges faced by marginalized groups.
- Ensure representation of diverse groups/marginalized communities in decision-making processes.
- Freedom of Choice and Personal Autonomy
- Protect and enhance individual freedoms within national unity.
- Ensure a political system offering a wide range of choices for citizens.
- Promote a culture respecting diverse lifestyles and beliefs.
- Create a framework allowing individuals to make optimal personal decisions.
- Digitalization for Empowerment and Transparency
- Implement a comprehensive national digital strategy.
- Improve digital infrastructure and connectivity across the country.
- Promote digital literacy and skills development programs.
- Leverage technology to enhance government services and citizen participation.
- Environmental Sustainability and the Right to a Healthy Environment
- Recognize the right to a clean and healthy environment.
- Integrate environmental costs and considerations into development projects.
- Implement policies to address climate change and protect biodiversity.
- Social Security Net
- Develop a comprehensive social security system protecting vulnerable populations.
- Promote policies supporting work-life balance.
- Implement programs addressing poverty and economic inequality.
- Freedom of Expression and Media
- Protect freedom of speech and press freedom.
- Ensure media independence and diversity.
- Combat misinformation while respecting free expression.
- Promote responsible journalism and media literacy