What impact did the assassination of Lasantha Wickrematunge have on journalism in Sri Lanka?
The assassination of Lasantha Wickrematunge in **2009** intensified fear among journalists in Sri Lanka and became a stark warning about the risks of criticising powerful figures. Some journalists and media outlets faced pressure, threats, or violence, encouraging **self-censorship** and making investigative reporting more difficult.
His killing also drew international attention to press freedom and the need to investigate attacks on journalists. Because the case remained unresolved for many years, it reinforced concerns about impunity and weakened trust that journalists could be protected or that those responsible would be held accountable.
