PM Harini Amarasuriya Calls for Greater Rights and Opportunities for Women on International Women’s Day

As the world observes International Women’s Day, Sri Lanka’s Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya extended her greetings to women both in Sri Lanka and across the globe.

In a message issued to mark the occasion, the Prime Minister drew attention to this year’s theme introduced by the United Nations — “Rights. Justice. Action. For All Women and Girls.” She said the theme highlights the urgent need to secure equal rights, ensure justice, and take concrete steps to improve the lives of women and girls everywhere.

Amarasuriya noted that women play a crucial role in Sri Lanka’s social and economic development, describing them as the foundation of families, communities, and the national economy. She said the government’s policy vision, “A Thriving Nation – A Beautiful Life,” aims to treat women not merely as recipients of support but as key contributors to national progress.

Under this framework, the government plans to introduce several initiatives to strengthen women’s empowerment. These include promoting female entrepreneurship, expanding opportunities for self-employment through financial and technical support, and improving safety in public transport, workplaces, and domestic environments.

The Prime Minister also highlighted efforts to increase women’s participation in leadership and decision-making roles at both national and regional levels. In addition, targeted programs are being developed to improve women’s nutrition, reproductive health, and mental well-being.

Amarasuriya stressed that women should not be viewed as individuals seeking sympathy but as essential partners in society who possess intelligence, creativity, and resilience. She said the government’s goal is to create a country where women can live without fear, have their abilities recognized, and lead dignified lives.

Marking the global celebration, the Prime Minister expressed hope that the day would signal the start of a new chapter in which the aspirations of Sri Lankan women are fully realized and celebrated internationally