A Lasting Legacy of Social Cohesion in Sri Lanka
Over the past three-and-a-half years, the Social Cohesion and Peace in Sri Lanka (SCOPE) programme has made significant strides in fostering unity among different communities and institutions. The initiative, supported by the European Union and Germany, has played a crucial role in bridging gaps between various stakeholders in the country.
Carmen Moreno, the European Union Ambassador to Sri Lanka and the Maldives, emphasized the importance of this effort during the closing event of the SCOPE programme. She highlighted that the EU is proud of its contribution to strengthening social cohesion in Sri Lanka. “As Sri Lanka continues on this journey, the lessons and partnerships forged through SCOPE will remain a lasting contribution,” she said.
The event was held at the Galle Face Hotel and marked the end of a long-term commitment to promoting peace and unity. It served as a platform for reflecting on the achievements of the programme and discussing future steps to sustain the momentum.
Dr. Felix Neumann, the German Ambassador to Sri Lanka and the Maldives, also spoke about the significance of the programme. He noted that Germany, as a co-supporter, values open dialogue, reconciliation, and learning from the past. “SCOPE has shown how honest reflection and cooperation can build the foundations for lasting social cohesion. We are proud to have supported a programme that strengthened institutions and empowered communities to move forward together,” he added.
Collaborative Efforts and Community Engagement
Since March 2022, the SCOPE programme has worked closely with over 50 government and civil society partners. Its primary goals include enhancing community and institutional capacities, promoting a more inclusive public discourse, and supporting economic inclusion. Over the course of its implementation, SCOPE engaged with more than 175,000 people across all 25 districts of Sri Lanka.
The programme is co-funded by the European Union and the German Federal Foreign Office, and it is implemented by GIZ in partnership with the Justice and National Integration Ministry. This collaboration has allowed for a comprehensive approach to addressing challenges related to social cohesion.
The closing ceremony brought together a wide range of participants, including representatives from the government, the international community, civil society, academia, media, and the private sector. Attendees gathered to celebrate the achievements of the programme, reflect on lessons learned, and discuss how to maintain the progress made in the years ahead.
Key Figures and Events
Distinguished guests at the event included Muneer Mulaffer, former National Integration Deputy Minister and current Religious and Cultural Affairs Deputy Minister; European Union Ambassador Carmen Moreno; and German Ambassador Dr. Felix Neumann. Their presence underscored the importance of the programme and the support it has received from key stakeholders.
In addition to speeches from dignitaries, the event featured a presentation on the impact and results of the SCOPE programme. A panel discussion with civil society representatives explored shared learnings, while a photo stories book was launched, capturing personal narratives and community experiences from across the island.
The event concluded with an art performance by the Temple of Fine Arts, celebrating unity through creative expression. An appreciation segment for SCOPE’s partners and collaborators followed, highlighting the collective efforts that contributed to the programme’s success.
Accompanying exhibition spaces featured installations by the Centre for Policy Alternatives, the Archive of Memory, and the Sri Lanka Barometer, all of which were supported by SCOPE.
A Celebration of Unity and Reflection
The event served as both a celebration and a moment of reflection, emphasizing the collective efforts that shaped the success of the SCOPE programme. It also recognized the many dedicated individuals and organizations that continue to promote dialogue, inclusion, and unity across Sri Lanka.