In the face of historical injustices and ongoing challenges, the Tamil community in Sri Lanka must urgently reconsider its political strategy. The rejection of past opportunities in pursuit of an ideal solution has hindered meaningful progress. It is imperative now, more than ever, to adopt an engagement-based political approach that bridges divides and fosters collaboration across all communities. The Tamil civil society, along with its allies, must strive to build a credible and inclusive alliance that can effectively address the grievances of all victimised groups—Tamils, Muslims, Malayaga Tamils, and the majority Sinhalese—while advocating for transitional justice and sustainable reforms.
The Sri Lankan state has long perpetuated systemic injustices through its structures and policies. From anti-Tamil pogroms and the denial of constitutional safeguards to the institutionalisation of impunity, the state has historically reversed the multi-ethnic fabric of the nation. These actions, coupled with the lack of accountability for violations of International Humanitarian Law and International Human Rights Law, have entrenched ethnic hegemony and exacerbated divisions. The failure to share power equitably among constituent nations has further alienated minority communities and undermined the principles of justice and equality.
While we acknowledge the government’s recent efforts toward ethnic egalitarianism through Sri Lankan identity, these steps remain insufficient without addressing the deep-rooted grievances of oppressed communities. The Tamil, Muslim, and Malayaga peoples have endured decades of atrocity crimes, systemic discrimination, and the misuse of laws such as the Prevention of Terrorism Act to suppress dissent and deny fundamental freedoms. These injustices continue to erode trust and hinder reconciliation. True progress demands accountability, transparency, and guarantees of non-recurrence, alongside constitutional and institutional reforms that ensure power-sharing and participatory democracy.
To achieve these goals, the Tamil civil society must take proactive steps to build bridges with the Sinhala progressives, democrats, trade unions, students, civil society and other marginalised groups. Winning the hearts and minds of all communities is essential to fostering mutual understanding and solidarity. End of the day, it is the referendum for a new constitution that will fix the festering problems envisaged by all Peoples of Sri Lanka. By engaging in constructive dialogue and advocating for a shared vision of justice and equality, we can work toward a New Sri Lanka—one that is founded on international conventions, ethnic justice, and democratic principles.
The time has come for Sri Lanka to embark on a path of reconciliation, justice, and inclusivity. This is an appeal to all members of Tamil civil society, as well as to the broader Sri Lankan community, to reconsider rejectionist approaches and embrace a strategy of engagement. While the Tamil people have faced immense suffering and injustice, we cannot afford to wait for an ideal solution in a chaotic and imperfect world. Instead, we must act decisively, constructively, and collaboratively to build a future rooted in justice and equity.
The Global Tamil Civil Society (GTCS) firmly believes that unity among Tamil-speaking peoples and other marginalised communities is the cornerstone of meaningful progress. Historical divisions must be set aside to create a cohesive alliance that represents the aspirations of all oppressed peoples in Sri Lanka. This includes fostering solidarity with progressive Sinhalese allies and civil society groups who share our vision for a just, inclusive, and multi-ethnic Sri Lanka.
A Call to All Communities
This appeal is not limited to the Tamil, Malayaga Tamil, and Muslim communities. It is a call to all Sri Lankans, including the Sinhalese majority and civil society members who share our vision for a multi-ethnic and equitable future. The pursuit of justice is not just a moral obligation—it is a vital foundation for sustainable peace and prosperity for everyone in Sri Lanka.
We urge all communities to seize this opportunity to unite, strategise, and act with purpose. Together, we can challenge impunity, demand accountability, and work towards a Sri Lanka where the voices of all communities are heard, respected, and valued.
The scars of the past cannot be erased, but they can guide us toward a future of unity and progress. Let us move forward together, with a shared commitment to justice, reconciliation, and the collective advancement of all communities in Sri Lanka.
Let us move forward with hope, resilience, and determination. The time for justice, equity, and unity is now.
