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Corruption in Srilanka is considered a major problem in all levels of society, from the top echelons of political power to minor staff levels.

Corruption directly affects the welfare of citizens by decreasing public investments in health, education, infrastructure, security, housing and plantations. One of the more recent forms of corruption is through public procurement because of the lack of transparency with transactions that happen within the government.

Officials and politicians who have been involved in corruption have been either given presidential pardons or have escaped to foreign countries to escape punishment. A number of incidents have occurred where corrupt individuals were freed without penalty due to their political connections. Although the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption exists, its powers have been curbed by powerful politicians and business tycoons and, in most cases, the commission has not been able to act in an independent manner.

Corruption in Sri Lanka is considered as an ongoing serious national issue which has dampened economic growth and lowered quality of life for most Citizens.

Corruption was among many issues which provoked the 2022 nationwide protests so called, “Aragalaya”. These were massive demonstrations against the administration of Gotabaya Rajapaksa and their impetus stemmed from the inability of general public to fulfil their basic needs and wants due to shortages, rolling power cuts, hyperinflation, the decline in disposable income and the lack of foreign reserves to import basic essentials.

SriLanka need again organise mass movements calling for action against corruption & need to build on this awareness and anger, and go beyond acknowledgement of the critical risks corruption brings to our society.