March 08, Colombo (LNW): Prime Minister Dr Harini Amarasuriya has conveyed her wishes to women in Sri Lanka and across the world in a message marking International Women’s Day, while urging greater efforts to ensure equality, justice and opportunity for women and girls everywhere.
Referring to this year’s United Nations theme, “Rights. Justice. Action. For All Women and Girls,” the Prime Minister said the observance serves as an important reminder of the need to translate commitments to women’s empowerment into practical measures that protect rights and expand opportunities.
Dr Amarasuriya noted that women remain central to the social and economic fabric of Sri Lanka, describing them as a driving force behind both family life and national progress. She said the Government’s policy agenda, titled “A Thriving Nation – A Beautiful Life,” aims to move beyond viewing women solely as recipients of assistance and instead recognise them as equal partners in shaping the country’s development.
Under this framework, a number of initiatives are being pursued to strengthen women’s economic and social participation. These include encouraging women-led enterprises, providing technical guidance and financial backing for those pursuing self-employment, and improving protections for women in public spaces, workplaces and public transport systems.
The Prime Minister also highlighted efforts to increase the presence of women in leadership and decision-making positions at both national and local levels. In addition, she said programmes focusing on women’s health and well-being — including nutrition, reproductive healthcare and mental health support — are being expanded.
Emphasising the broader role women play in society, Dr Amarasuriya said women should not be viewed through a lens of vulnerability but rather recognised as capable and dynamic contributors equipped with knowledge, determination and creativity.
She expressed hope that Sri Lanka can build a future where women are able to live safely, have their abilities acknowledged and pursue their ambitions with dignity.
Concluding her message, the Prime Minister said she hopes International Women’s Day 2026 will symbolise a fresh chapter for women in Sri Lanka — one in which their aspirations are fulfilled and their achievements gain recognition both at home and internationally.