November 13, Colombo (LNW): The most recent Sri Lanka Opinion Tracker Survey (SLOTS), conducted by the Institute of Health Policy (IHP) from August to November, reveals that economic issues are of paramount concern for Sri Lankans, with 74% of respondents highlighting the economy as their top priority.
Among economic challenges, inflation (44%) and unemployment (40%) emerged as the next significant concerns. T
he survey asked participants to name the two most pressing issues facing the country, and other concerns such as corruption and high taxes were also mentioned by 14% of respondents.
IHP, a non-partisan research institution based in Colombo, commissioned and designed the SLOTS survey.
The survey’s lead investigator, Dr. Ravi Rannan-Eliya, brings over three decades of experience in public opinion polling, having been trained at Harvard University.
The survey is conducted through random digit dialing of mobile numbers, along with a national panel of respondents, ensuring that the data is representative of Sri Lanka’s population.
The sample is weighted for various demographic factors such as age, gender, education, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status to reflect the broader population.
The main objective of the SLOTS survey is to track public opinion and social conditions in Sri Lanka, offering valuable insights into the concerns and experiences of the population.
The fieldwork, conducted daily by IHP staff, relies on random phone interviews to gather data, making it a timely and consistent tool for monitoring public sentiment.
The survey’s results indicate that Sri Lankans are deeply concerned about the economic situation in the country, particularly with respect to inflation and unemployment.
This reflects a broader trend of economic discontent, exacerbated by the country’s ongoing financial crisis.
The high levels of inflation, coupled with rising unemployment, have placed significant strain on household budgets and living standards, leaving many people struggling to make ends meet.
This survey underscores the urgency of addressing these economic challenges, which could have long-term social and political implications.
Other notable issues, such as corruption and high taxes, are also seen as significant barriers to economic recovery.
The persistence of corruption within the political and public sectors undermines trust in government and its ability to manage public resources effectively.
High taxes, on the other hand, are perceived by many as an additional burden, particularly when wages are stagnant, and economic conditions are harsh.
In terms of funding, the SLOTS survey has been supported by various organizations, including the Velux Stiftung foundation and USAID, among others.
However, these organizations have no influence over the survey’s design, analysis, or reporting, ensuring its independence.
The survey results highlight the need for effective policy interventions to address Sri Lanka’s economic issues, focusing particularly on controlling inflation, reducing unemployment, and restoring public trust in governance.
The findings also suggest that while economic challenges dominate, other issues like corruption and taxation must not be overlooked in the quest for sustainable recovery.
