August 14, Colombo (LNW): The latest July 2024 polling data from SLOTS reveals that while a significant portion of Sri Lankans remain concerned about the country’s direction, there has been a small yet notable increase in optimism.
Currently, 72% of Sri Lankans believe the country is moving in the wrong direction, but this is an improvement from previous months, with 8% now stating that the nation is on the right track—up from below 5% in July 2023.
This positive shift, although modest, suggests a growing sense of hope among the population, particularly as the number of uncommitted respondents has decreased.
Despite Sri Lanka still having the highest percentage of people who think their country is on the wrong path compared to other nations polled, this upward trend in positive sentiment is a step in the right direction.
Globally, 62% of adults in 29 countries surveyed by IPSOS in June–July 2024 felt their country was headed in the wrong direction, compared to Sri Lanka’s 93%.
Public opinion in Sri Lanka varies slightly across age groups, with younger adults (ages 18–29) and those aged 30–44 more inclined to believe the country is on the wrong track compared to older adults.
The July 2024 estimates are based on 680 interviews, carefully adjusted to reflect the demographics of Sri Lanka, including age, gender, education, socioeconomic status, ethnicity, religion, geographic location, and sector.
SLOTS gathers public opinion on the country’s overall direction by asking a straightforward question: “Would you say things in the country are headed in the right direction or the wrong direction?”
Respondents have the option to not answer or to express uncertainty. The reported percentages reflect the views of all respondents, with numbers adjusted to account for those who are unsure or declined to respond.
