Democracy survey april 2016 final report

62
APRIL 2016 SOCIAL INDICATOR CENTRE FOR POLICY ALTERNATIVES DEMOCRACY IN POST WAR SRI LANKA TOP LINE REPORT

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Transcript of Democracy survey april 2016 final report

Page 1: Democracy survey april 2016 final report

APRIL 2016SOCIAL INDICATOR CENTRE FOR POLICY ALTERNATIVES

DEMOCRACY IN POST WAR SRI LANKATOP LINE REPORT

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The Centre for Policy Alternatives (CPA) is an independent, non-partisan organisation that focuses primarily on

issues of governance and conflict resolution. Formed in 1996 in the firm belief that the vital contribution of civil

society to the public policy debate is in need of strengthening, CPA is committed to programmes of research

and advocacy through which public policy is critiqued, alternatives identified and disseminated.

Address: 6/5, Layards Road,

Colombo 5, Sri Lanka

Telephone: +94 (11) 2081384-6

Fax: +94 (11) 2081388

Web www.cpalanka.org

Email [email protected]

Social Indicator (SI) is the survey research unit of the Centre for Policy Alternatives (CPA) and was established in September 1999, filling a longstanding vacuum for a permanent, professional and independent polling facility in Sri Lanka on social and political issues. Driven by the strong belief that polling is an instrument that empowers democracy, SI has been conducting polls on a large range of socio‐economic and political issues since its inception.

Address: 105, Fifth Lane, Colombo 03

Telephone: +94(11)2370472/4/6 Fax: +94(11) 2370475

Web: http://cpalanka.org/survey-research/ Email: [email protected]

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 2

INTRODUCTION 4

METHODOLOGY 5

KEY EVENTS PRIOR TO & DURING FIELDWORK 7

ECONOMY AND DEVELOPMENT 8

TRUST IN INSTITUTIONS 15

PERCEPTIONS ON POLITICS 24

TRANSITIONAL JUSTICE 45

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

• Almost 30% of Sri Lankans believe that the current economic situation in the country

is good, whilst nearly 45% are of the opinion that it is bad. 21.7% of Sri Lankans

believe that it has remained the same.

• The three main results the respondents would like to see from the country’s current

development process are the issues of unemployment being addressed, an increase

in improved infrastructure and better education facilities.

• Almost 30% of Sri Lankans indicate that they are satisfied with the Government’s

performance in addressing the cost of living in the country, while 51.2% indicate that

they are dissatisfied.

• 44.2% of Sri Lankans believe that it is more appropriate for the Local Government

Authorities to carry out small and medium scale development activities within a given

constituency/ district.

• While 72.6% of Sri Lankans agree that female representation in Parliament, Provincial

Councils, and Local Government Authorities is insufficient, 10.1% disagree with the

same.

• On the allocation of a fixed quota for female representation, 70.5% of Sri Lankans

believe that there should be quotas for female representation in Parliament, Provincial

Councils, and Local Government Authorities, while 9.6% of Sri Lankans do not think

that there should be a quota.

• 52% of Sri Lankans are of the opinion that men are both qualified and capable of

winning an election in comparison to women, while 23.7% disagree with the same.

• While 51.4% of Sri Lankans are of the opinion that once elected, women have less

decision making power than their male counterparts, 21.8% disagree with the same.

• Nearly 50% of Sri Lankans state that the Constitution should determine the number

of Ministers and that there should be no room to increase the number of Ministers in

Parliament.

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• A majority (74.4%) of Sri Lankans agree that the Clergy (religious priests/ monks) if

found guilty of unethical/ illegal behaviour or misconduct, must be taken into custody

and dealt with under the rule of law.

• While 48.8% of Sri Lankans agree that the National Anthem should be sung in both

Sinhala and Tamil languages, 41.3% of Sri Lankans disagree with the same.

• 42.2% of Sri Lankans are of the opinion that there should be a mechanism to look

into what happened during the final stages of the war, while 44.2% are of the opinion

that there shouldn’t be such a mechanism.

• Among those who indicate that there should be a credible mechanism to look into

accountability of what happened during the final stages of the war, 47.3% of Sri

Lankans are of the opinion that it should be an exclusively domestic one, whilst 9.2%

of Sri Lankans are of the opinion that it should be an exclusively international one.

• From an ethnic perspective, it is mostly the Sinhala community who favour an

exclusively domestic mechanism with 69.3% indicating the same.

• From those who favour an exclusively international mechanism, it is the Tamil

community with 26.2% indicating the same.

• From those who believe that there should be an international mechanism to

investigate into what happened during the final stages of the war, it is evident that

respondents from the Sinhala, Tamil and Muslim communities mostly prefer the

judges, prosecutors, lawyers and investigators to be from the USA while the Up

Country Tamil community prefer the judges, prosecutors, lawyers and investigators to

be from India.

• On the question of the transitional justice process in Sri Lanka, 28.8% of Sri Lankans

are of the opinion that issues in relation to reparations, which includes the victims’

entitlement for redress and a proper policy framework need to be addressed.

• The top three institutions that citizens trust are the Army (46.7%), Courts (40.1%) and

the Civil Service (22.9%)

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INTRODUCTION

This is the Sixth Wave of the survey ‘Democracy in Post War Sri Lanka’ conducted by Social

Indicator, the survey research unit of the Centre for Policy Alternatives. This survey seeks to

record public perceptions with regard to the general economic situation in the country, the

level of trust the public has on various institutions, the level of confidence in the new

framework of governance, and various reconciliation measures initiated by the Government of

Sri Lanka towards ensuring durable peace, protection of human rights, administration of

justice and strengthening of the rule of law.

This wave was conducted at a time when the Sirisena Government pledges to bring about

various changes and reforms to bridge the governance deficit that had arisen in the recent

past. Various measures towards meaningful reconciliation with accountability for alleged

human rights violations that occurred during the final stages of the war, along with electoral

and Constitutional reforms are a few among the many propositions made and in the process

of being implemented in post war Sri Lanka.

Data was collected from all 25 districts across the four main ethnicities, thereby making the

survey comprehensive and insightful. The research team comprised of Iromi Perera, Sakina

Moinudeen and M. Krishnamoorthy. Data processing was done by Shashik Dhanushka.

We would like to thank Dr. Paikiasothy Saravanamuttu for his valuable input in the survey

design process.

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METHODOLOGY

The Sixth Wave of the survey on Democracy in Post War Sri Lanka was carried out using a

semi structured questionnaire administered through face to face interviews with 2102

respondents in both Sinhala and Tamil languages across all 25 districts. The sample

respondents were selected with the use of a multi-stage stratified random sampling

technique that represents the four main ethnic communities in the country (Sinhala, Tamil, Up

Country Tamil and Muslim communities).

Questionnaire

Discussions, debates and various initiatives that have been proposed/ taken by the

Government in relation to the strengthening of democracy, establishing good governance,

ensuring the protection of human rights and promoting reconciliation in post war Sri Lanka,

were taken into consideration when designing the questionnaire for the Sixth Wave of the

survey on Democracy in Post War Sri Lanka.

The questionnaire was finalised with a group that comprised of Researchers and the

Executive Director of the Centre for Policy Alternatives (CPA).

The questionnaire was translated into Sinhala and Tamil and a pilot survey was conducted by

selected senior field staff. Findings from the pilot survey were taken into account in the

finalisation of the questionnaire.

Sampling and fieldwork

In this survey, Social Indicator (SI) used a multi-stage stratified random sampling technique

and a sample of 2102 respondents spread across all districts were polled. The Population

Proportionate Sampling (PPS) method was used and ethnic proportions were accounted for.

The sample size was determined in order to produce results within a 2% error margin at a

95% confidence level. Electorates were chosen as the strata to distribute the sample, and

Polling Centre’s within each electorate were chosen randomly. From each selected polling

centre the starting point (first household selected for the survey) of the survey was selected

randomly from the 2008 voter registry. Following the completion of an interview at the first

household, 19 other households that come under the same polling Centre were selected

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using the right hand rule._ At each selected household, a respondent was determined using

the last birthday method.

Field Work

Fieldwork for the entire study was conducted from February 18th to March 03rd 2016.

Training of Field Researchers

A total of 60 Field Researchers participated in this study. The Field Researchers consisted of

both male and female enumerators from three ethnic communities – Sinhala, Tamil and

Muslim. Prior to starting fieldwork, they were given comprehensive training on the study, the

survey instrument and field techniques. In order to guarantee the quality of field research, SI

deployed a group of Supervisors to conduct quality control processes during and after

fieldwork, such as accompany visits, spot-checks and back-check were carried out to ensure

the quality of the data collected.

Data Processing and analysis

All the completed questionnaires were scrutinised, checked and entered into a database

designed for the survey. The dataset was further cleaned prior to the analysis. Before starting

the analysis process, the dataset was weighted in order to reflect actual geographical and

ethnic proportion. The data set was analysed using the Statistical Package for Social

Sciences (SPSS).

How to read this report

•This report presents the top line results of the survey. The graphs presented set out a

descriptive explanation on the basis of National data, and have been divided

according to ethnicity.

•Where there was a significant shift or change in opinion over the years, data was

compared with the surveys that were conducted in 2011, 2013, 2014 and 2015.

•For questions that require more than one answer (multiple answer questions) from the

respondents, figures do not add up to a 100%.

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KEY EVENTS PRIOR TO & DURING FIELDWORK

Singing of the National Anthem in both Sinhala and Tamil, at the 68th Independence

Day celebrations.

The Sri Lankan National Anthem was sung in Tamil for the first time since 1949 at the official

Independence Day celebrations held on the 4th of February 2016. The unofficial ban on

signing the National Anthem in Tamil was lifted in March 2015.

Visit of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights.

The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Prince Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein

arrived in Sri Lanka for a four day official visit on the 6th of February 2016. The main purpose

of his visit was to review the implementation of the recommendations made in his report to

the United Nations Human Rights Council, and the subsequent resolution that was submitted

to the UNHRC on Promoting reconciliation, accountability and human rights in Sri Lanka.

Discussions were held with high level Government officials as well as officials from the Human

Rights Commission of Sri Lanka, representatives of the civil society, victims of human rights

violations and religious leaders.

Launch of a Task Force for designing a suitable reconciliation mechanism for post war

Sri Lanka.

In keeping with the mandate presented to the public at the Presidential and Parliamentary

Elections in January and August 2015, the launch of a Task Force comprising of 10 civil

society representatives was initiated by the Foreign Minister of Sri Lanka, to assist in

designing a suitable reconciliation mechanism to ensure transitional justice in post war Sri

Lanka. The purpose of the task force is to ascertain the opinion of stakeholders including the

victims, war widows, security personnel, families of missing, the disabled, political

personalities and religious leaders, which hopes to guide and design the process for

transitional justice in the country.

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1

ECONOMY AND DEVELOPMENT

Summary

• Almost 30% of Sri Lankans believe that the current economic situation in the country

is good, whilst nearly 45% are of the opinion that it is bad. 21.7% of Sri Lankans

believe that it has remained the same.

• Amongst those who believe that the current economic situation in the country is bad,

62.4% believe that the policies introduced by the Government should be held

accountable for the situation.

• While 75.6% of Sri Lankans are of the opinion that the Government is doing a good

job in managing the healthcare service, 21.6% of Sri Lankans do not think they are

doing a good job.

• While 72.8% of Sri Lankans agree that the Government is doing a good job in

managing the education system, 20.3% state the contrary.

• The three main results the respondents would like to see from the country’s current

development process are the issues of unemployment being addressed, an increase

in improved infrastructure and better education facilities.

• Almost 30% of Sri Lankans indicate that they are satisfied with the Government’s

performance in addressing the cost of living in the country, while 51.2% indicate that

they are dissatisfied.

• 44.2% of Sri Lankans believe that it is more appropriate for the Local Government

Authorities to carry out small and medium scale development activities within a given

constituency/ district.

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On the current economic situation in the country, almost 30% of Sri Lankans believe that it is

good, while nearly 45% believe that it is bad. 21.7% of Sri Lankans are of the opinion that the

current economic situation in the country has remained the same.

From an ethnic perspective, it is noteworthy that a significant proportion from the Muslim

community is satisfied with the current economic situation, with almost 70.5% stating that it

is good. The Sinhala community are the least satisfied, with 51.4% indicating that that the

current economic situation is bad. (Refer Graph 1.1)

Sri Lankans appear to be slightly more satisfied with the current economic situation in the

country, than when compared with the surveys conducted in 2013 and 2014. 50.5% in 2013

and 50.1% in 2014 indicated that the current economic situation was bad. This figure

declined to 45% in February 2016.

Graph 1.1: Thinking about the current economic situation in the country, how would

you describe it?

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0

17.5

35

52.5

70

National Sinhala Tamil Up Country Tamil Muslim

4.75.71.3

3.63.51

19.3

8.9

25.220.9

9.8

26.1

19.6

26.224

1411.4

14.5

24.221.7

63.7

34.1

50.6

18.7

27

6.73.45.1

2.12.8

Very Good Somewhat Good Remained the Same Somewhat Bad Very Bad Don't Know

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Amongst those who believe that the current economic situation in the country is bad, 62.4%

indicate that the reason for the country’s economic deterioration is due to the policies

introduced by the Government. (Refer Graph 1.2)

Graph 1.2: If you think the current economic situation in the country is somewhat bad,

or very bad, who do you think is responsible for its deterioration?

Almost 30% of Sri Lankans indicate that they are satisfied with the Government’s

performance in addressing the cost of living in the country, while 51.2% indicate that they are

dissatisfied. It is mostly the Muslim community with 71.8% who are satisfied, whilst the

Sinhala community appear to be the most dissatisfied with 60.9% indicating the same. (Refer

Graph 1.3)

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0

17.5

35

52.5

70

National Sinhala Tamil Up Country Tamil Muslim

23.8

10.3

31.9

25.725.5

14.312.88.7

3.24.3001.41.11

23.825.623.2

4.26.8

38.1

51.3

34.8

65.862.4

The Government's Policies The Previous Government's Policies Influence of the International Community The Citizens Don’t Know

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Graph 1.3: How satisfied are you with the Government’s performance in addressing the

cost of living in the country?

The respondents were asked to indicate their views on the Government’s performance in

managing public services like health care and education. While 75.6% of Sri Lankans are of

the opinion that the Government is doing a good job in managing the country’s healthcare

service, 21.6% state the contrary. From an ethnic perspective, it is the Tamil community

(89.4% indicating satisfaction) who appear to be the most satisfied and the Sinhala

community least satisfied with only 24.9% stating their satisfaction with the Government’s

performance in managing the health care service in the country. (Refer Graph 1.4)

On education, 72.8% of Sri Lankans agree that the Government is doing a good job in

managing the country’s education system, while 20.3% disagree with the same. From an

ethnic perspective, the Tamil community seem to be the most satisfied with 91.5% agreeing

that the Government is doing a good job in managing the education system, while the least

optimistic is the Sinhala community with 24.5% who disagree with the same. (Refer Graph 1.5)

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0

17.5

35

52.5

70

National Sinhala Tamil Up Country Tamil Muslim

3.63.466.15.7 3.6

12.59.4

26.221.7

7.7

26.1

13.6

34.729.5

13.310.2

12.813.413.2

66.7

44.3

52.3

17.4

27

5.13.46

2.12.9

Very Satisfied Somewhat Satisfied Neither Satisfied nor Dissatisfied Somewhat Dissatisfied Very Dissatisfied Don't Know

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Graph 1.4: The Government is doing a good job in managing health care services

Graph 1.5: The Government is doing a good job in managing the education system

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0

15

30

45

60

National Sinhala Tamil Up Country Tamil Muslim

2.11.12.13.12.8 3.1

10.3

3.8

10.59 7.711.5

4.7

14.412.6

51.549.4

38.1

47.747

35.6

27.6

51.3

24.4

28.6

Strongly Agree Somewhat Agree Somewhat Disagree Strongly Disagree Don't Know

0

15

30

45

60

National Sinhala Tamil Up Country Tamil Muslim

1.62.32.1

8.56.94.13.42.5

9.78.14.75.7

3.8

14.812.3

42.5

47.1

35.2

46.745.147.2

41.4

56.4

20.4

27.7

Strongly Agree Somewhat Agree Somewhat Disagree Strongly Disagree Don't Know

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The respondents were asked to state three main results that they would like to see from the

current development process in the country. 65% of Sri Lankans believe that issues

pertaining to unemployment should be addressed while 61.3% of Sri Lankans indicate that

they would like to see an increase in improved infrastructure in the country. The third main

result indicated by the respondents was the creation of better education facilities in country

with 21.1% indicating the same.

When analysing the findings of the survey, with the surveys conducted in 2011 and 2013,

there appears to be a shift in what Sri Lankans believe should be given a priority in the

country’s development process.

In 2013, reduction in the cost of living was given the first priority followed by a need to

address the issue of unemployment and creating better education facilities in the country. In

2011, while reduction in the cost of living was the first priority indicated by the respondents,

there appeared to be slight changes in the second and third preferences chosen by all four

communities. Agriculture was the second preference selected by the Sinhala community and

unemployment was identified by the Muslim community. Reducing poverty, was the second

preference of the Tamil and Up Country Tamil communities. As for the third preference,

improved infrastructure was selected by the Sinhala community while reducing poverty was

selected by the Muslim community. Addressing unemployment issues was selected by both

the Tamil and Up Country Tamil communities as their third preference.

The respondents were given a list of various institutions and were asked to select as to which

institution they think is most appropriate to carry out small and medium scale development

activities within the constituency/ district. The list consisted of the Central Government,

Provincial Councils and Local Government Authorities. While 11.2% of Sri Lankans indicated

the Central Government, 23.1% said that Provincial Councils should carry out small and

medium scale development activities within a given constituency/ district. However, a larger

proportion of Sri Lankans - 44.2% - indicate that it is more appropriate for the Local

Government Authorities to carry out small and medium scale development activities within a

given constituency/ district. (Refer Graph 1.6)

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Graph 1.6: In your opinion, which institution do you think is more appropriate to carry

out small and medium scale development activities within the constituency/ district?

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0

12.5

25

37.5

50

National Sinhala Tamil Up Country Tamil Muslim

27.325

17.921.121.4

31.4

22.7

38.7

47.8

44.2

23.2

37.534.5

20.623.1

1814.8

8.910.511.2

Central Government The Provicial Councils The Local Government Authorities Don't Know

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2

TRUST IN INSTITUTIONS

Summary

• The top three institutions that citizens trust are the Army (46.7%), Courts (40.1%) and

the Civil Service (22.9%)

• Almost 70% of Sri Lankans trust the Central Government, although the figure

highlights a decline from the previous surveys conducted in 2013 (84.2%) and March

2015 (74.5%).

• The survey conducted in February 2016 shows a decline in the percentage of

respondents who indicate that they trust the Police. While 73.5% in 2013 and 71.6%

in March 2015 indicated that they trusted the Police, this figure dropped to 63.5% in

February 2016.

• Nearly 80% of Sri Lankans indicate that they trust the Army, with only 10.5% having

no trust in them. From an ethnic perspective, the Tamil community seem to have the

least amount of trust in the Army with 35.7% indicating the same.

• Overall only 13.2% of Sri Lankans have a great deal of trust in the Parliament, while

34.8% have some trust in the same. 36.5% of Sri Lankans have no trust in the

Parliament.

• Sri Lankans trust the political parties the least with almost 50% indicating that they

have no trust, while 36.7% of Sri Lankans indicate that they trust the political parties of

the country.

• In 2013, 41.7% and in March 2015, 62.3% indicated that they trusted the Election

Commission. A drop in this figure is seen in February 2015 with 54.8% indicating the

same.

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When assessing the level of democracy in a country, it is important to evaluate how much

trust the public has in various institutions of the country, ranging from the Central Government

to Non-Governmental Organisations (NGO’s). The survey sought to evaluate respondents’

level of trust on the Central Government, Provincial Government, Local Government, Civil

Service, Police, Army, Courts, Parliament, Political Parties, Election Commission and NGO’s.

The top three institutions that citizens place a great deal of trust on are the Army (46.7%),

Courts (40.1%) and the Civil Service (22.9%). (Refer Graph 2.1)

Graph 2.1 How much trust do you have in the following institutions? (National)

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Central Government

Provincial Government

Local Government

Civil Service

Police

Army

Courts

Parliament

Political Parties

Election Commssion

NGO's

0 25 50 75 100

39.3

31.9

14.8

15.5

12.8

10.5

6.5

6.8

10.6

11.7

11.8

16.6

13.3

48.5

36.5

7.5

10.5

30

13

24

23.8

19.5

34.7

32.4

28.5

34.8

39.6

32.3

41.7

57.3

48.6

49.9

51.3

9.4

22.4

8.2

13.2

40.1

46.7

21.8

22.9

16.8

14.6

17.4

Great Deal of Trust Some Trust No Trust Don't Know

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Central Government

When comparing the findings of the survey with the surveys conducted in the past, it is

evident that there appears to be a decline in the level of trust Sri Lankans have in the Central

Government. In 2013, 84.2% and in March 2015, 74.5% of Sri Lankans said that they trusted

the Central Government. A drop in this figure to 68.7% is evident in February 2016. (Refer

Graph 2.2)

Graph 2.2: How much trust do you have in the Central Government?

Provincial Government

While 72.7% in 2013 and 67.4% in March 2015 indicated that they trusted the Provincial

Government, there appears to be a decrease in this percentage in February 2016 with 64.6%

indicating the same. (Refer Graph 2.3)

Graph 2.3: How much trust do you have in the Provincial Government?

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0

15

30

45

60

National Sinhala Tamil Up Country Tamil Muslim

17.913.8

5.111.911.8

3.6

11.511

23.219.5

52.850.655.5

50.551.3

25.624.128.4

14.417.4

Great Deal of Trust Some Trust No Trust Don't Know

0

15

30

45

60

National Sinhala Tamil Up Country Tamil Muslim

15.510.2

6.81211.7 12.4

1713.6

2723.8

57.751.1

57.6

47.749.9

14.421.622

13.214.6

Great Deal of Trust Some Trust No Trust Don't Know

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Local Government

In February 2016, 65.5% of Sri Lankans indicated that they trusted Local Government, a

decline from the previous surveys conducted in 2013 (73%) and in March 2015 (68%). The

Tamil community with 74.6% has the most trust in Local Government. The Sinhala

community has the least trust with 26.6% indicating that they have no trust in the same.

(Refer Graph 2.4)

Graph 2.4: How much trust do you have in the Local Government?

Civil Service

From the list of institutions provided to the respondents, 80.2% of Sri Lankans said that they

trust the Civil Service of the country, with 22.9% placing a great deal of trust. 13% of Sri

Lankans indicate that they have no trust in the same. However, when compared with the

survey conducted in March 2015 where 84.9% indicated that they trusted the Civil Service,

there appears to be a slight decline in the percentage of Sri Lankans who hold this view in

February 2016. (Refer Graph 2.5)

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0

15

30

45

60

National Sinhala Tamil Up Country Tamil Muslim

15.413.68.510.210.6 12.8

19.316.9

26.624

56.9

5050.847.248.6

14.917

23.7

1616.8

Great Deal of Trust Some Trust No Trust Don't Know

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Graph 2.5: How much trust do you have in the Civil Service?

Police

In 2013, 73.5% and in March 2015, 71.6% of Sri Lankans indicated that they trusted the

Police, while this figure has declined in February 2016 to 63.5%. Meanwhile, 30% of Sri

Lankans indicate that they have no trust in the Police. (Refer Graph 2.6)

In March 2015, 18.2% from the Sinhala community and 20% from the Muslim community

indicated that they have no trust in the Police. A marked rise in these figures is seen in

February 2016 with 31.9% from the Sinhala community and 30.6% from the Muslim

community indicating the same.

Graph 2.6: How much trust do you have in the Police?

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0

15

30

45

60

National Sinhala Tamil Up Country Tamil Muslim

12.310.35.16.26.8 8.7

12.611.913.613

60

51.75757.457.3

1925.326

22.822.9

Great Deal of Trust Some Trust No Trust Don't Know

0

15

30

45

60

National Sinhala Tamil Up Country Tamil Muslim

11.46.98.9

5.56.5

30.6

13.8

22.5

31.930

44

55.2

38.641.241.7

14

24.1

30.1

21.421.8

Great Deal of Trust Some Trust No Trust Don't Know

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Army

On the level of trust in the Army, nearly 80% of Sri Lankans indicate that they trust the Army

with only 10.5% indicating that they have no trust in them. From an ethnic perspective, the

Tamil community the Army the least with 35.7% stating that they have no trust. (Refer Graph 2.7)

There has been a some change in the percentage of respondents from the Tamil and Up

Country Tamil communities with regard to the level of trust they have in the Army. In 2011,

32.8% from the Tamil community and 27.3 % from the Up Country Tamil community

indicated that they had no trust in the Army. This figure increased to 52% among the Tamil

and 47% among the Up Country Tamil communities in March 2015. When comparing these

figures with the survey conducted in February 2016, we see a notable drop in the

percentages, with 35.7% from the Tamil community and 13.8% from the Up Country Tamil

community who indicate that that they have no trust in the Army.

Graph 2.7: How much trust do you have in the Army?

Page � of �20 60

0

15

30

45

60

National Sinhala Tamil Up Country Tamil Muslim

20.6

31

24.7

5.910.5

22.7

13.8

35.7

5.1

10.5

45.4

40.2

28.530.932.3

11.314.9

11.1

58

46.7

Great Deal of Trust Some Trust No Trust Don't Know

Page 23: Democracy survey april 2016 final report

Courts

While nearly 80% of Sri Lankans trust the courts, only 7.5% indicate that they have no trust in

the same. (Refer Graph 2.8)

Graph 2.8: How much trust do you have in the Courts?

Parliament

Overall only 13.2% of Sri Lankans have a great deal of trust in Parliament while 34.8% have

some trust in the same. 36.5% of Sri Lankans have no trust in Parliament. From an ethnic

perspective, it is the Sinhala community with 41.5% who has the least trust in Parliament in

comparison to 20.3% from the Tamil, 12.5% from the Up Country Tamil and 25.95% from the

Muslim communities. Among those who trust Parliament, it is mostly the Up Country Tamil

community with 75%, followed by 61.9% of the Tamil community, 60.1% of the Muslim

community, and 42.9% of the Sinhala community. (Refer Graph 2.9)

When analysing the findings of the survey, it is evident that the level of mistrust amongst the

Sinhala and Muslim communities has increased in February 2016, when compared with the

surveys conducted in the past. Previously 13.2% in 2011 and 28.7% in March 2015 from the

Sinhala community indicated that they had no trust in the Parliament, and a rise in these

figures to 41.5% is seen in February 2016. As for the Muslim community, 23.3% in 2011 and

14.2% in March 2015 were of the opinion that they had no trust in the Parliament. These

figures increased to 25.9% in February 2016. Page � of �21 60

0

12.5

25

37.5

50

National Sinhala Tamil Up Country Tamil Muslim

12.810.210.2

13.412.8

4.65.78.57.87.5

4139.834.7

40.139.6 41.544.3

46.6

38.740.1

Great Deal of Trust Some Trust No Trust Don't Know

Page 24: Democracy survey april 2016 final report

Graph 2.9: How much trust do you have in the Parliament?

Political Parties

Overall, the trust Sri Lankans have in political parties is at a low level, with nearly 50%

indicating that they have no trust in the political parties of the country. Only 8.2% of Sri

Lankans have a great deal of trust while 28.5% have some trust in the political parties of the

country. From an ethnic perspective, the Up Country Tamil community has the most trust in

the political parties of the country with 55.2% indicating the same. From those who have the

least trust, it is the Sinhala community with 50.8% indicating the same.

Graph 2.10: How much trust do you have in the Political Parties?

Page � of �22 60

0

15

30

45

60

National Sinhala Tamil Up Country Tamil Muslim

1412.517.815.615.5

25.9

12.5

20.3

41.536.5

48.254.5

43.6

30.834.8

11.9

20.518.212.113.2

Great Deal of Trust Some Trust No Trust Don't Know

0

15

30

45

60

National Sinhala Tamil Up Country Tamil Muslim

14.99.2

1415.314.8

45.9

35.639.8

50.848.5

34.5

44.8

36

25.728.5

4.610.310.28.38.2

Great Deal of Trust Some Trust No Trust Don't Know

Page 25: Democracy survey april 2016 final report

Election Commission

In 2013, 41.7% stated that they trusted the Election Commission with an increase in this

percentage in March 2015 to 62.3%. However, a drop in the level of trust is seen in February

2016, with 54.8% indicating the same. While the Up Country Tamil community (78.2%) has

the most trust, the Muslim community (13.4%) has the least trust in the Election Commission.

(Refer Graph 2.11)

Graph 2.11: How much trust do you have in the Election Commission?

Non-Governmental Organisations (NGO’s)

On trust in NGO’s, only 9.4% of Sri Lankans have a great deal of trust in NGO’s while 34.7%

indicate that they have some trust. 16.6% indicate that they have no trust in NGO’s. The

Tamil community with 75.3% has the most trust in NGO’s, as opposed to the Sinhala

community with 18.9% who has the least amount of trust in them. (Refer Graph 2.12)

Graph 2.12: How much trust do you have in NGO’s?

Page � of �23 60

0

12.5

25

37.5

50

National Sinhala Tamil Up Country Tamil Muslim

12.414.915.3

37.731.9

13.4

6.910.6

13.913.3

38.1

47.1

40

29.832.4

36.131

34

18.522.4

Great Deal of Trust Some Trust No Trust Don't Know

0

15

30

45

60

National Sinhala Tamil Up Country Tamil Muslim

25.318.4

14.9

45.839.3

9.889.8

18.916.6

59.3

44.8

53.6

28.334.7

5.7

28.721.7

79.4

Great Deal of Trust Some Trust No Trust Don't Know

Page 26: Democracy survey april 2016 final report

3

PERCEPTIONS ON POLITICS Summary

• While 72.6% of Sri Lankans agree that female representation in Parliament, Provincial

Councils, and Local Government Authorities is insufficient, 10.1% disagree with the

same.

• On the allocation of a fixed quota for female representation, 70.5% of Sri Lankans

believe that there should be quotas for female representation in Parliament, Provincial

Councils, and Local Government Authorities, while 9.6% of Sri Lankans do not think

that there should be a quota.

• 52% of Sri Lankans are of the opinion that men are both qualified and capable of

winning an election in comparison to women, while 23.7% disagree with the same.

• While 51.4% of Sri Lankans are of the opinion that once elected, women have less

decision making power than their male counterparts, 21.8% disagree with the same.

• Almost 60% of Sri Lankans are of the opinion that they are completely free to express

their feelings about politics, irrespective of where they are and who they are with, while

9.1% indicate that they are not free to do so.

• Nearly 50% of Sri Lankans state that the Constitution should determine the number of

Ministers and that there should be no room to increase the number of Ministers in

Parliament.

• A large proportion of Sri Lankans (81.4%) indicate that being involved in national level

issues by participating in debates in Parliament and formulating legislation is an

important function of a Parliamentarian.

• There appears to be a low level of satisfaction among Sri Lankans with regard to the

Government’s commitment in eradicating corruption in the country, when compared

with the survey conducted in October 2015. In October 2015, 49.6% in felt that the

Government is committed to eradicating corruption in the country, while only 34.5% of

Sri Lankans in February 2016 indicate the same.

Page � of �24 60

Page 27: Democracy survey april 2016 final report

Women in Parliament

On female representation in Parliament, Provincial Councils and Local Government

Authorities, 72.6% of Sri Lankans agree that female representation is insufficient, while 10.1%

disagree with the same. From an ethnic perspective, it is the Up Country Tamil community

with 89.8% who believe that female representation is insufficient, followed by 75.4% from the

Tamil community, 72% from the Sinhala community and 66% from the Muslim community. Of

those who are of the opinion that there is sufficient female representation, opinion in the

Sinhala community is highest at 11.4%, followed by 10.8% from the Muslim, 3.8% from the

Tamil and 3.4% from the Up Country Tamil communities. (Refer Graph 3.1)

Graph 3.1: The number of female representation in Parliament, Provincial Councils,

and Local Government Authorities is insufficient

Majority of Sri Lankans (70.5%) believe that there should be quotas for female representation

in Parliament, Provincial Councils, and Local Government Authorities, while only 9.6% of Sri

Lankans disagree. From an ethnic perspective, it is the Up Country Tamil community who

mostly agree on quotas for women with 92% indicating the same. From those who mostly

Page � of �25 60

0

22.5

45

67.5

90

National Sinhala Tamil Up Country Tamil Muslim

8.83.45.17.26.9

10.8

3.43.8

11.410.114.4

3.4

15.79.410.3

66

89.8

75.47272.6

Agree Neither Agree nor Disagree Disagree Don't Know

Page 28: Democracy survey april 2016 final report

disagree on a quota for female representation, it is the Muslim community with 11.3%

indicating the same. (Refer Graph 3.2)

When comparing the data with the surveys conducted in the past, 78.6% of Sri Lankans in

2013, 79% in 2014 and 79.4% in March 2015 indicated that there should be a fixed quota for

women, this figure dropped in October 2015 to 64.8% with a slight increase to 70.5% in

February 2016.

Graph 3.2: There should be quotas for female representation in the Parliament,

Provincial Councils, and Local Government Authorities

The survey sought to evaluate the impact a candidate’s gender and related attributes have on

winning an electoral contest. 54% of Sri Lankans are of the opinion that men are both more

qualified and capable of winning an election than women, while 23.7% disagree with the

same.

From an ethnic perspective, it is the Up Country Tamil community with 65.9% who mostly

agree that in comparison to women, men are both more qualified and capable of winning an

election, while it is the Tamil community with 30.2% who mostly disagree with the same.

(Refer Graph 3.3)

Page � of �26 60

0

25

50

75

100

National Sinhala Tamil Up Country Tamil Muslim

5.72.33

13.411 11.33.44.7

10.59.6 6.22.3

7.69.78.8

76.8

9284.7

66.470.5

Agree Neither Agree nor Disagree Disagree Don't Know

Page 29: Democracy survey april 2016 final report

Graph 3.3: Men, are both qualified and capable of winning an election than women

Around 50% of Sri Lankans are of the opinion that once elected, women have less decision

making power than their male counterparts, while 21.8% of Sri Lankans disagree with the

same. From an ethnic perspective, it is the Up Country Tamil community with 71.3% who

mostly believe that women have less decision making power than their male counterparts

whilst 23.8% from the Tamil community disagree with the same. (Refer Graph 3.4)

Graph 3.4: Once elected, women have less decision making power than their male

counterparts

Page � of �27 60

0

17.5

35

52.5

70

National Sinhala Tamil Up Country Tamil Muslim

8.26.84.79.68.8

24.721.6

30.2

22.623.7

14.4

5.7

24.7

14.915.5

52.6

65.9

40.4

52.952

Agree Neither Agree nor Disagree Disagree Don't Know

0

20

40

60

80

National Sinhala Tamil Up Country Tamil Muslim

9.76.9612.611.4

23.117.2

23.821.521.814.9

4.6

23.4

14.915.4

52.3

71.3

46.85151.4

Agree Neither Agree nor Disagree Disagree Don't Know

Page 30: Democracy survey april 2016 final report

Freedom of Expression

The survey sought to capture the level of freedom the public believed it has in expressing

political opinion, to join a political organisation of choice, voting and protesting/ attending a

demonstration against social and political injustice.

The respondents were asked as to how free they felt to express political opinion, irrespective

of where they are and who they are with. 59.6% of Sri Lankans said that they are completely

free while 25% indicate that they are somewhat free to express their feelings about politics,

irrespective of where they are and who they are with. 9.1% of Sri Lankans indicate that they

are not free.

From an ethnic perspective, it is the Sinhala community with 86.2% who mostly feel free to

express their views about politics, irrespective of where they are and whom they are with.

This figure is followed by 81.8% from the Up Country Tamil community, 81% from the Muslim

community and 77.1% from the Tamil community. Of those who indicate that they are not

free, it is mostly the Tamil community with 15.3%, followed by 12.8% from the Muslim

community, 11.4% from the Up Country Tamil community and 7.7% from the Sinhala

community. (Refer Graph 3.5)

When comparing the data with the surveys conducted the past, there appears to be an

increase in the level of freedom the respondents feel they have to express their views on

politics irrespective of where they are and who they are with. It is important to note that in

February 2016 the Tamil community seems to be more confident, with only 15.3% indicating

that they do not feel free to express their views on politics, when compared to the 32.2% in

2011.

Page � of �28 60

Page 31: Democracy survey april 2016 final report

Graph 3.5: How free are you to express your feelings about politics, irrespective of

where you are and who you’re with?

When asked to indicate as to how free they are to join any political organisation of choice,

86.1% of Sri Lankans indicate that they are free (with 65.4% stating that they are completely

free). When comparing the data of the 2013 survey, it is evident that Sri Lankans feel more

free at present to join any political organisation they desired. While 71.9% in 2013, indicated

that they were free to join any political organisation they desired, it increased to 86.1% in

February 2016.

From an ethnic perspective, it is the Sinhala community (90.7%) who mostly feel free to join

any political organisation they want to, while 12.6% from the Muslim community and 10.6%

from the Tamil community say that they are not free at all. (Refer Graph 3.6)

Page � of �29 60

0

17.5

35

52.5

70

National Sinhala Tamil Up Country Tamil Muslim

6.26.87.66.16.311.3

3.47.2

1.43 1.5

88.16.36.1

32.829.5

2224.225

48.252.3

55.1

62.159.6

Completely free Somewhat free Not very free Not free at all Don't Know

Page 32: Democracy survey april 2016 final report

Graph 3.5: How free are you to join any political organisation you want?

Almost 85% of Sri Lankans believe that they are completely free and 11.4% feel somewhat

free to choose whom to vote for without feeling pressured. From an ethnic perspective,

96.1% from the Sinhala community, 96.6% from the Tamil community, 98.9% from the Up

Country Tamil community and 95.9% from the Muslim community feel free to vote for without

feeling pressured. (Refer Graph 3.7)

Graph 3.7: To choose who to vote for without feeling pressured

Page � of �30 60

0

20

40

60

80

National Sinhala Tamil Up Country Tamil Muslim

16.512.611.9

4.76.912.4

5.710.6

1.13.4 2.64.64.73.53.6

38.1

2326.7

17.720.7

30.4

54

46.2

73.1

65.4

Completely free Somewhat free Not very free Not free at all Don't Know

0

25

50

75

100

National Sinhala Tamil Up Country Tamil Muslim

3.61.11.72.32.3 0.500.40.10.2 001.31.51.35.25.78.5

12.911.4

90.793.188.1

83.284.8

Completely free Somewhat free Not very free Not free at all Don't Know

Page 33: Democracy survey april 2016 final report

When asked to indicate how free the respondents felt to protest/ attend a demonstration

against social injustice, 52.4% of Sri Lankans indicate that they are completely free, while

24.2% indicate that they are somewhat free. 11.6% of Sri Lankans indicate that they are not

free do so. (Refer Graph 3.8)

When comparing the data from the surveys conducted in the past, it is evident that there is a

decrease in the percentage of Sri Lankans who feel free to protest / attend a demonstration

against social injustice. While 56% in 2013 and 69.4% in March 2015 expressed that they

were free, this figure has dropped to 52.4% in February 2016.

Graph 3.8: How free are you to protest/ attend a demonstration against social injustice

(rising I the cost of living, increase in bus fares etc)

While 69.8% of Sri Lankans indicate that they feel free to protest/ attend a demonstration

against political injustice, 15.5% indicate that they do not feel free to do so. From an ethnic

perspective, a larger proportion from the Sinhala community (72.5%) feel free to protest/

attend a demonstration against political injustice as opposed to the 23.1% from the Tamil

community who feel the least free to do so. (Refer Graph 3.9)

When comparing the data with the survey conducted in 2014, there appears to be an overall

rise in the percentage of Sri Lankans who feel free to protest/ attend a demonstration against

Page � of �31 60

0

15

30

45

60

National Sinhala Tamil Up Country Tamil Muslim

19.517.2

11.910.611.88.2

5.76.43.84.6 2.6

85.1

7.87

36.9

26.431.1

21.524.2

32.8

42.545.5

56.352.4

Completely free Somewhat free Not very free Not free at all Don't Know

Page 34: Democracy survey april 2016 final report

political injustice. As such 47.8% in 2014 indicated that they were free, while this figure rose

to nearly 70% in February 2016.

Graph 3.9: How free are you to protest/ attend a demonstration against political

injustice?

Media Freedom

The survey sought to evaluate public perceptions on negative reporting and as to whether the

media should constantly report issues like corruption and mistakes made by the Government.

While 82.3% of Sri Lankans state that news media should constantly investigate and report

on corruption and the mistakes made by the Government, 6.8% state that too much

reporting on negative events, like corruption will harm the country. (Refer Graph 3.10)

When analysing the results of the surveys conducted in the past, it is evident that there has

been an increase in the percentage of respondents who believe that news media should

constantly investigate and report on corruption and the mistakes made by the Government.

While 72.6% in 2011, 73% in 2013 and 78.6% in March 2015 indicated that news media

should investigate and report on corruption and mistakes made by the Government, this

figure rose to 82.3% in February 2016.

Page � of �32 60

0

12.5

25

37.5

50

National Sinhala Tamil Up Country Tamil Muslim

20.518.4

13.713.914.712.3

10.312.8

3.55.7 6.2

12.610.3109.8

29.726.427.4

23.424.5

31.332.235.9

49.145.3

Completely free Somewhat free Not very free Not free at all Don't Know

Page 35: Democracy survey april 2016 final report

From an ethnic perspective, 81.5% from the Sinhala community, 85.6% from the Tamil

community, 80.5% from the Up Country Tamil community and 85% from the Muslim

community are of the opinion that news media should constantly investigate and report on

corruption and the mistakes by the Government.

Graph 3.10: Which statement is most agreeable to you?

Option A: The news media should constantly investigate and report on corruption and the mistakes made by the Government

Option B: Too much reporting on negative events, like corruption only harms the country

Page � of �33 60

National

Sinhala

Tamil

Up Country Tamil

Msulim

0 25 50 75 100

1

1.3

0.1

0.3

6.7

13.8

6.8

6.2

6.6

1.6

0.4

1.8

1.6

0.5

0.8

3

2.4

5.2

5.7

5.1

7.3

6.8

85

80.5

85.6

81.5

82.3

Option A Option B Neither Could not understand No opinion Don't Know

Page 36: Democracy survey april 2016 final report

Political Efficacy

While 67.5% of Sri Lankans agree that if a person is dissatisfied with the policies of the

Government, he/ she has a duty to do something about it, 6.3% of Sri Lankans disagree with

the same. From an ethnic perspective, this view is held by 71.9% from the Sinhala

community, 55.5% from the Tamil community, 55.7% from the Up Country Tamil community

and 51.3% from the Muslim community. From those who disagree, it is mostly the Tamil

community with 10.2% indicating the same. (Refer Graph 3.11)

When comparing the data with the surveys conducted in the past, there appears to be a

slight increase in the percentage of Sri Lankans who agree - while 60% in 2011 and 64.9% in

2014 agreed that if a person is dissatisfied with the policies of the Government, he/she has a

duty to do something about it, this figure rose to 67.5% in February 2016.

Graph 3.11: If a person is dissatisfied with the policies of the government he/ she has a

duty to something about it

Page � of �34 60

0

20

40

60

80

National Sinhala Tamil Up Country Tamil Muslim

2822.7

16.11315.1

5.29.110.2

5.76.3

15.512.5

18.2

9.311

51.355.755.5

71.967.5

Agree Neither Agree nor Disagree Disagree Don't Know

Page 37: Democracy survey april 2016 final report

While 38.6% of Sri Lankans agree that they have no say in what the Government does,

35.3% believe that they do have a say. From an ethnic perspective, 37.7% from the Sinhala

community, 41.3% from the Tamil community, 44.3% from the Up Country Tamil community

and 40.7% from the Muslim community agree that they have no say in what the Government

does. From those who disagree, the respondents consist of 39.5% from the Sinhala, 22.1%

from the Tamil, 22.7% from the Up Country Tamil and 23.2% from the Muslim communities.

(Refer Graph 3.12)

When analysing the data with the surveys conducted in the past, it is evident that there was a

clear decline in the percentage of Sri Lankans (30.1% in 2013, 28.1% in 2014 and 19.7% in

March 2015) who agree that they have no say in what the Government does, with a notable

rise in the percentage of respondents in February 2016 to 38.6%.

Graph 3.12: People like me have no say in what the government does

Page � of �35 60

0

12.5

25

37.5

50

National Sinhala Tamil Up Country Tamil Muslim

23.720.5

15.3

10.812.9

23.222.722.1

39.5

35.3

12.412.5

21.3

12.113.1

40.744.3

41.337.738.6

Agree Neither Agree nor Disagree Disagree Don't Know

Page 38: Democracy survey april 2016 final report

If an unjust law was passed in Sri Lanka, 44.3% of Sri Lankans believe that there is nothing

they can do about it, while 25.3% disagree with the same. From an ethnic perspective,

44.7% from the Sinhala, 42.4% from the Tamil, 52.9% from the Up Country Tamil and 39.7%

from the Muslim communities believe that there is nothing they can do if an unjust law is

passed by the Government. (Refer Graph 3.13)

When comparing the data with the surveys conducted in the past, it is evident that there has

been an increase in the percentage of Sri Lankans who believe that there is nothing they can

do if an unjust law is passed in Sri Lanka. While this view was held by 30% in 2013 and 29%

in 2014, this figure rose to 44.3% in February 2016.

Graph 3.13: If an unjust law was passed by the Government I could do nothing about it

While 38.5% of Sri Lankans agree that it does not really matter which political party is in

power as it will not affect their lives, 28.7% disagree. From an ethnic perspective, 36.4% from

the Sinhala community, 40.7% from the Tamil community, 72.7% from the Up Country Tamil

community, 37.1% from the Muslim community agree that it does not matter which political

party is in power, 34.6% from the Sinhala, 13.1% from the Tamil, 9.1% from the Up country

Tamil and 7.7% from the Muslim communities disagree with the same. (Refer Graph 3.14)

Page � of �36 60

0

15

30

45

60

National Sinhala Tamil Up Country Tamil Muslim

23.719.5

16.113.515

25.3

17.2

23.72625.3

11.310.3

17.815.815.4

39.7

52.9

42.444.744.3

Agree Neither Agree nor Disagree Disagree Don't Know

Page 39: Democracy survey april 2016 final report

In 2011, 7.2% from the Sinhala, 25.9% from the Tamil, 35.1% from the Up Country Tamil and

25.3% from the Muslim communities agreed that it doesn’t matter as to which political party

is in power, as it has no impact on their lives, and when compared to the data from February

2016 it is a noteworthy increase in those who agree that it does not matter.

Graph 3.14: It doesn’t really matter which party is in power, because it will not affect our lives

Number of Ministers in Parliament

Nearly 50% of Sri Lankans say that the Constitution should determine the number of

Ministers in Parliament and that there should be no room to increase the number, while

17.6% indicate that the Government should have some control over determining the number

of Ministers in Parliament. However, 8.3% of Sri Lankans are of the opinion that the

Government should have complete freedom in deciding the number of Cabinet Ministers,

Deputy Ministers and other Ministers in Parliament.

From an ethnic perspective, 56.3% from the Sinhala community, 31.4% from the Tamil

community, 25.3% from the Up Country Tamil community and 21.1% from the Muslim

community are of the opinion that the Constitution should determine the number of Ministers

Page � of �37 60

0

20

40

60

80

National Sinhala Tamil Up Country Tamil Muslim

33

13.6

23.718.219.9

7.79.113.1

34.628.7

22.2

4.5

22.5

10.812.9

37.1

72.7

40.736.438.5

Agree Neither Agree nor Disagree Disagree Don't Know

Page 40: Democracy survey april 2016 final report

and that there should be no room to increase the number. As for the Government having

control over determining the number of Ministers, 15.3% from the Sinhala community, 21.2%

from the Tamil community, 23% from the Up Country Tamil community and 29.4% from the

Muslim community indicate the same. 4.1% from the Sinhala, 17.8% from the Tamil, 26.4%

from the Up Country Tamil and 22.7% from the Muslim communities are of the opinion that

the Government should have complete freedom in deciding the number of Ministers in

Parliament. (Refer Graph 3.15)

Graph 3.15: Please select the statement that you agree with the most.

Option A: The Constitution should determine the number of ministers and there should be no room to increase the number

Option B: The Government should have some control over determining the number of Ministers

Option C: The Government should have complete freedom in deciding the number of Ministers

Page � of �38 60

National

Sinhala

Tamil

Up Country Tamil

Msulim

0 25 50 75 100

26.5

25.2

29.5

24.2

25.1

22.7

26.4

17.8

4.1

8.3

29.4

23

21.2

15.3

17.6

21.1

25.3

31.4

56.3

49

Option A Option B Option C Don't Know

Page 41: Democracy survey april 2016 final report

Choosing a Parliamentary Representative

When choosing a Parliamentary representative, 28% of Sri Lankans prefer their representative

to be from the same geographical area as themselves. This figure consists of 18.4% from the

Sinhala, 60.9% from the Tamil, 60.2% from the Up Country Tamil and 52.1% from the Muslim

communities.

38.2% of Sri Lankans indicate that their representative to the Parliament should represent

their political ideologies. This includes 44.3% from the Sinhala, 17.4% from the Tamil, 25%

from the Up Country Tamil and 20.1% from the Muslim communities.

10% of Sri Lankans indicate that their representatives to the Parliament should represent their

identity such as their ethnicity, caste or class. This figure consists of 9% from the Sinhala,

17.4% from the Tamil, 10.2% from the Up Country Tamil and 9.3% from the Muslim

communities. (Refer Graph 3.16)

Graph 3.16: From the following, please select one of the factors that you find in common with yourself when choosing your representative to the Parliament.

Option A: The Geographical Area

Option B: Politcal Ideologies

Option C: Identity (Class, Ethnicity, Religion)

Page � of �39 60

National

Sinhala

Tamil

Up Country Tamil

Muslim

0 25 50 75 100

7.1

3.2

4.1

9.2

8.3

11.3

1.1

19

15.4

9.3

10.2

17.4

9

10

20.1

25

17.4

44.3

38.2

52.1

60.2

60.9

18.4

28

Option A Option B Option C Other Don't Know

Page 42: Democracy survey april 2016 final report

Functions performed by Members of Parliament

The respondents were given a list of functions performed by Parliamentarians, and were

asked to rate the level of importance of each of those functions.

A majority of Sri Lankans (83.3%) believe it is important that Members of Parliament ensure

that development activities within the districts are carried out by state agencies. From an

ethnic perspective, it is mostly the Up Country Tamil community with 86.2% who believe that

it is important that that ensure that it is carried out.

85.5% of Sri Lankans believe that it is important for Members of Parliament to use their

decentralised budgets to carry out development activities within the district. From an ethnic

perspective, 85.6% from the Sinhala community, 86.4% from the Tamil community, 89.7%

from the Up Country Tamil community and 81.3% from the Muslim community hold this view.

A large proportion of Sri Lankans (81.4%) indicate that being involved in national level issues

by participating in debates in Parliament and formulating legislation is an important function of

a Parliamentarian. From an ethnic perspective, 80.6% from the Sinhala community, 86.4%

from the Tamil community, 85.1% from the Up Country Tamil community and 79.9% from the

Muslim community indicate that it is important for Parliamentarians to be involved in national

level issues by participating in debates in Parliament and formulating legislation.

While 61.3% of Sri Lankans consider it to be very important, 19.4% indicate that it is

somewhat important for Parliamentarians to ensure that the executive arm of the Government

(including Ministries/ Government Authorities and Departments) provides the public with the

relevant services required. From an ethnic perspective, 90.8% from the Up Country Tamil

community, 87.3% from the Tamil community, 79.9% from the Muslim community and 79.2%

from the Sinhala community indicate that it is important for Parliamentarians to ensure that

the executive arm of the Government provides relevant services to the citizens of the country.

(Refer Graph 3.17)

Page � of �40 60

Page 43: Democracy survey april 2016 final report

Graph 3.17: Please indicate the importance of the different functions performed by

Members of Parliament -

Option A: Ensure the development activities within the districts are being carried out by state agencies

Option B : Use his/ her decentralised budget to carry out development activities within the district

Page � of �41 60

National

Sinhala

Tamil

Up Country Tamil

Muslim

0 25 50 75 100

19.2

12.6

11

12.9

13.2

2.1

0.6

0.7

1

1.1

0.8

3.3

2.8

22.3

19.5

14.4

24.9

23.3

57.5

66.7

71.6

58.2

60

Very Important Somewhat Important Not Very Important Not Important At All Don't Know

National

Sinhala

Tamil

Up Country Tamil

Muslim

0 25 50 75 100

17

10.2

9.8

9

9.7

2.1

1.3

1.2

1.6

1.7

4

3.4

25.4

19.5

18.3

18

18.8

56

70.1

68.1

67.6

66.6

Very Important Somewhat Important Not Very Important Not Important At All Don't Know

Page 44: Democracy survey april 2016 final report

Option C: Be involved with national level issues including through participating in debates in Parliament and formulating legislation

Option D: Ensure that the executive arm of the Government (including Ministries/ government authorities and departments) deliver relevant services to citizens

Page � of �42 60

National

Sinhala

Tamil

Up Country Tamil

Muslim

0 25 50 75 100

17

13.5

10.5

12.3

12.5

1

0.4

1.5

1.2

2.1

1.1

2.5

5.6

4.7

22.7

16.1

16.9

19.1

19.1

57.2

69

69.5

61.5

62.3

Very Important Somewhat Important Not Very Important Not Important At All Don't Know

National

Sinhala

Tamil

Up Country Tamil

Muslim

0 25 50 75 100

17.4

9.1

11

15.3

14.5

1

0.8

0.9

0.8

1.5

0.8

4.5

3.6

17

6.9

19.1

20.4

19.4

62.9

83.9

68.2

58.7

61.3

Very Important Somewhat Important Not Very Important Not Important At All Don't Know

Page 45: Democracy survey april 2016 final report

Corruption

The survey sought to evaluate the level of confidence Sri Lankans have in the Government’s

performance and commitment towards eradicating corruption in the country.

On the Government’s performance in eliminating corruption in the country, 41% of Sri

Lankans are of the opinion that the Government has done enough to combat corruption,

while 42.8% do not think they have done enough.

From an ethnic perspective, the Up Country Tamil community appear to be the most satisfied

with 64.4% indicating that the Government has done enough to combat corruption, while the

least satisfied is the Sinhala community with 49.8% stating the contrary. (Refer Graph 3.18)

When comparing the findings with the survey conducted in March 2015, there is no big

change in the public’s opinion with regard to the Government’s performance in combating

corruption in the country. In March 2015, 43.9% of Sri Lankans indicate that the

Government has done enough to combat corruption, while 41.2% disagreed with this view.

From an ethnic perspective, when analysing the data with the survey conducted in March

2015, there appears to be a drop in the percentage of respondents from the Sinhala and Up

Country Tamil communities who believe that the Government has done enough to combat

corruption in the country. In March 2015, 39.9% from the Sinhala community and 72% from

the Up Country Tamil community were of the opinion that the Government has done enough

to combat corruption in the Country. In February 2016 a decline in these figures is evident

with 34% from the Sinhala community and 64.4% from the Up Country Tamil community.

However, there has been an increase in the percentage of respondents from the Tamil and

Muslim communities who believe that the Government has done enough to combat

corruption in the country. In March 2015, 48.4% from the Tamil and 57.9% from the Muslim

communities indicated that the Government has done enough to combat corruption in the

country and a rise in these figures is seen in February 2016 to 61.4% and 62.4%

respectively.

Overall, Sri Lankans have a low level of confidence on the Government’s commitment

towards eradicating corruption in the country. While 40.8% are of the opinion that the

Government is not committed towards eradicating corruption in the country, 34.5% say that

the Government is committed.

Page � of �43 60

Page 46: Democracy survey april 2016 final report

From an ethnic perspective, the Sinhala community seem to be the most skeptical with

47.4% indicating that the Government is not committed towards eradicating corruption in the

country, while the Muslim community is the most optimistic, with 62.9% stating that the

Government is committed. (Refer Graph 3.19)

In October 2015, 49.6% of Sri Lankans were of the opinion that the Government is

committed towards eradicating corruption in the country, whilst 28.1% stated the contrary.

Graph 3.18: In your opinion, has the Government done enough to combat corruption?

Graph 3.19: Do you think the government is committed towards eradicating corruption in the country?

Page � of �44 60

0

17.5

35

52.5

70

National Sinhala Tamil Up Country Tamil Muslim

1813.816.116.216.2 19.621.822.5

49.842.8

62.464.461.4

3441

Yes No Don't Know

0

17.5

35

52.5

70

National Sinhala Tamil Up Country Tamil Muslim

19.61719.126.624.7

17.521.622.5

47.440.8

62.961.458.5

2634.5

Yes No Don't Know

Page 47: Democracy survey april 2016 final report

4

TRANSITIONAL JUSTICE

Summary

• On devolution of power, 25.3% of Sri Lankans agree that power needs to be devolved

to the Provincial Councils, while reducing the power of the Central Government.

• Almost 50% Sri Lankans are of the opinion that certain powers could be decentralised

but the powers of the Central Government should not be reduced.

• On the allocation of resources, 38.5% of Sri Lankans say that there are many other

problems that the country faces and which the Government should focus on, and

rebuilding the conflict affected areas should not be given priority over the needs of the

rest of the country.

• A majority (74.4%) of Sri Lankans agree that the Clergy (religious priests/ monks) if

found guilty of unethical/ illegal behaviour or misconduct, must be taken into custody

and dealt with under the rule of law.

• While 48.8% of Sri Lankans agree that the National Anthem should be sung in both

Sinhala and Tamil languages, 41.3% of Sri Lankans disagree with the same.

• There appears to be a drop in the percentage of Sri Lankans who believe that the

Constitution should recognise ethnicity. While 64.6% in 2013 indicated that the

Constitution recognise ethnicity, this figure dropped to 41.2% in February 2016.

• While 74.1% of Sri Lankans are of the opinion that the Government should find a

solution to address the root causes of the ethnic conflict, 12.7% oppose the same.

• 42.2% of Sri Lankans are of the opinion that there should be a mechanism to look into

what happened during the final stages of the war, while 44.2% are of the opinion that

there shouldn’t be such a mechanism.

• Among those who indicate that there should be a credible mechanism to look into

accountability of what happened during the final stages of the war, 47.3% of Sri

Page � of �45 60

Page 48: Democracy survey april 2016 final report

Lankans are of the opinion that it should be an exclusively domestic one, whilst 9.2%

of Sri Lankans are of the opinion that it should be an exclusively international one.

• From an ethnic perspective, it is mostly the Sinhala community who favour an

exclusively domestic mechanism with 69.3% indicating the same.

• From those who favour an exclusively international mechanism, it is the Tamil

community with 26.2% indicating the same.

• From those who believe that there should be an international mechanism to investigate

into what happened during the final stages of the war, it is evident that respondents

from the Sinhala, Tamil and Muslim communities mostly prefer the judges,

prosecutors, lawyers and investigators to be from the USA while the Up Country Tamil

community prefer the judges, prosecutors, lawyers and investigators to be from India.

• Respondents who believe that there should be an exclusively domestic mechanism,

were asked as to what ethnicity they would prefer the judges, prosecutors, lawyers

and investigators to be from. In response to this question, 62.7% of Sri Lankans

stated that individuals from a combination of ethnicities should act as judges,

prosecutors, lawyers and investigators.

• On the topic relating to transitional justice measures proposed by the Government,

50.8% of Sri Lankans are not aware of the Government’s promise to establish a

special court with a Truth Commission, an Office of Reparations and an Office of

Missing Persons, while only 20.6% of Sri Lankans are aware of the same.

• On the question of the transitional justice process in Sri Lanka, 28.8% of Sri Lankans

are of the opinion that issues in relation to reparations, which includes the victims’

entitlement for redress and a proper policy framework need to be addressed.

Page � of �46 60

Page 49: Democracy survey april 2016 final report

Devolution of power

On the topic of devolution of power, 25.3% of Sri Lankans agree that power needs to be

devolved to the Provincial Councils while reducing the power of the Central Government.

46.5% of Sri Lankans however believe that certain powers could be decentralised, but the

powers of the Central Government should not be reduced.

From an ethnic perspective, 22.5% from the Sinhala, 40.9% from the Tamil, 26.1% from the

Up Country Tamil and 28.4% from the Muslim communities agree that power needs to be

devolved to the Provincial Councils while reducing the power of the Central Government.

48.6% from the Sinhala, 34.5% from the Tamil, 39.8% from the Up Country Tamil and 47.9%

from the Muslim communities agree that powers could be decentralised, but the powers of

the Central Government should not be reduced. (Refer Graph 4.1)

When comparing the surveys conducted in the past, there is a rise in the percentage of Sri

Lankans who believe that power needs to be devolved to the Provincial Councils, while

reducing the power of the Central Government. In 2011, 15.3% from the Sinhala, 40.9% from

the Tamil, 32.5% from the Up Country Tamil, 42.9% from the Muslim communities agreed

that power needs to be devolved to the Provincial Councils, while reducing the power of the

Central Government. In 2015 - 17.8% from the Sinhala, 47.9% from the Tamil, 47.1% from

the Up Country Tamil and 51.5% from the Muslim communities indicated the same. However

in February 2016, there is a drop in the percentage of respondents from the Sinhala (22.5%)

and Muslim (28.4%) communities who hold this view.

In October 2015, nearly 26% of Sri Lankans agreed that power needs to be devolved to the

Provincial Councils while the powers of the Central Government should be reduced, followed

by 41.3% of Sri Lankans who were of the opinion that certain powers of the Central

Government could be decentralised, but the powers of the Central Government should not

be reduced.

Comparing the survey findings with the survey conducted in October 2015, there appears to

be a significant increase in the percentage across the Tamil, Up Country Tamil and Muslim

communities, who agree that certain powers could be decentralised, but powers of the

Central Government should not be reduced. In October 2015 while 18.6% from the Tamil,

25.3% from the Up Country Tamil and 21.6% from the Muslim communities held this view, in

Page � of �47 60

Page 50: Democracy survey april 2016 final report

February 2016, 34.5% from the Tamil, 39.8% from the Up Country Tamil and 47.9% from the

Muslim community indicated the same.

Graph 4.1: Tell me which statement is the most agreeable to you.

Option A: Power needs to be devolved to the Provincial Councils, while reducing the power of the Central Government

Option B: It is ok to decentralise certain powers, but powers of the Central Government should not be reduced

On the question of allocation of resources, 41.5% of Sri Lankans say that the Government

should give priority to allocating resources to rebuild the conflict affected areas, even if it

means that less money is spent towards the rest of the country. 38.5% of Sri Lankans say

that there are many other problems that the country faces for which the Government should

focus on, and rebuilding the conflict affected areas should not be given priority over the

needs of the rest of the country.

From an ethnic perspective, 37.1% from the Sinhala, 61.4% from the Tamil, 46% from the Up

Country Tamil and 51.5% from the Muslim communities say that the Government should give

priority to allocating resources to rebuild the conflict affected areas, even if it means that less

Page � of �48 60

National

Sinhala

Tamil

Up Country Tamil

Muslim

0 25 50 75 100

0.5

0.4

0.1

0.2

21.1

30.7

18.3

21.8

21.7

2.1

2.3

3.8

4.6

4.2

1.1

2.1

2.4

2.1

47.9

39.8

34.5

48.6

46.5

28.4

26.1

40.9

22.5

25.3

Option A Option b Neither Could not understand No opinion Don't Know

Page 51: Democracy survey april 2016 final report

money is spent towards the rest of the country. However, 39.8% from the Sinhala, 30.1%

from the Tamil, 48.3% from the Up Country Tamil and 33.5% from the Muslim communities

say that there are many other problems that the country faces for which the Government

should focus on, and rebuilding the conflict affected areas should not be given priority over

the needs of the rest of the country. (Refer Graph 4.2)

When analysing the data from previous surveys, in 2013 while 61.1% of Sri Lankans were of

the opinion that the Government should give priority to allocating resources to rebuilding the

conflict affected areas, this figure declined to 46.3% in 2014 and 37.5% in October 2015.

However a slight increase to 41.5% is seen in February 2016.

Looking at the increase in the percentage of respondents who say that there are many other

problems in the country for which the Government should direct its focus, as opposed to

prioritising the rebuilding of the conflict affected areas - in 2014 it was 20.5%, in October

2015 it was 37.7% and in February 2016 it increased slightly to 38.5%.

Graph 4.2: Tell me which statement is most agreeable to you.

Option A: The Government should give priority in allocating resources to rebuilding the conflict affected areas, even if this means that less money is spent in the rest of the country

Option B: There are many other problems facing the country that Government should focus on, rebuilding the conflict affected areas should not be given priority over the needs of the rest of the country

Page � of �49 60

National

Sinhala

Tamil

Up Country Tamil

Muslim

0 25 50 75 100

0.3

0.2

0.1

0.3

11.3

5.7

6.4

13.8

12.3

2.6

0.8

1.4

1.4

0.5

0.8

7.7

5.9

33.5

48.3

30.1

39.8

38.5

51.5

46

61.4

37.1

41.5

Option A Option B Neither Could not understand No Opinion Don't Know

Page 52: Democracy survey april 2016 final report

74.4% of Sri Lankans agree that clergy (religious priests/ monks) if found guilty of unethical/

illegal behaviour or misconduct, must be taken into custody and dealt with under the rule of

law. From an ethnic perspective, it is 68.5% from the Sinhala community, 88.1% from the

Tamil community, 93.2% from the Up Country Tamil community and 96.9% from the Muslim

community who hold this view. On the contrary, 14.3% of Sri Lankans are of the opinion that

the clergy (religious priests/ monks) are ordained to be formal leaders who are distinguished

from the laity, and therefore taking them into custody despite their unethical behaviour should

not be allowed. From an ethnic perspective, it is the Sinhala community with 18.4% who

mostly agree with the same. (Refer Graph 4.3)

Graph 4.3: Tell me which statement is most agreeable to you -

Option A: The Clergy, (religious priests/ monks) who are found committing unethical/ illegal behaviour or misconduct, must be taken into custody and dealt with under the rule of law Option B: The Clergy, (religious priests/ monks) are ordained to be formal leaders who are distinguished from the laity. Hence, taking them into custody, despite their unethical behaviour should not be allowed

Page � of �50 60

National

Sinhala

Tamil

Up Country Tamil

Muslim

0 25 50 75 100

0.5

0.4

0.1

0.2

1

3.2

7.5

6

5.5

0.8

0.8

0.7

1.7

6.2

4.8

1.5

3.4

1.3

18.4

14.3

96.9

93.2

88.1

68.5

74.4

Option A Option B Neither Could not understand No opinion Don't Know

Page 53: Democracy survey april 2016 final report

In March 2015 the Sirisena Government lifted the unofficial ban on singing the National

Anthem in Tamil. This was followed by the National Anthem being sung in Tamil at the closing

ceremony of Sri Lanka’s 68th Independence Day celebrations on 04th February 2016.

While 48.8% of Sri Lankans agree that the National Anthem should be sung in both Sinhala

and Tamil languages, 41.3% of Sri Lankans disagree. Among those who agree that the

National Anthem should be sung in both Sinhala and Tamil languages, 33.2% from the

Sinhala, 96.2% from the Tamil, 97.7% from the Up Country Tamil and 97.9% from the Muslim

communities indicate the same. From those who disagree, it is mostly the Sinhala community

with 54.3% indicating the same. (Refer Graph 4.4)

When analysing the data with the survey conducted in March 2015, there does not appear to

be any significant changes to the percentage of respondents who both agree as well as

disagree with singing the national anthem in both languages. In March 2015 while 49.8% of

Sri Lankans agreed, 41.3% disagreed with singing the National Anthem in Sinhala and Tamil.

Graph 4.4: The “National Anthem should be sung in both Sinhala and Tamil

languages.” Please indicate as to how far you agree/ disagree with this statement.

Page � of �51 60

0

25

50

75

100

National Sinhala Tamil Up Country Tamil Muslim

0.51.10.46.75.2 002.6

40.330.7

0.50014.110.7 11.10.95.84.6 9.303

14.612.2

88.697.793.2

18.5

36.6

Strongly Agree Somewhat Agree Neither Agree nor Disagree Somewhat Disagree Stongly Disagree Don't Know

Page 54: Democracy survey april 2016 final report

Role of Ethnicity in Politics

On the question of ethnicity and the Constitution of the country, 42.1% of Sri Lankans believe

that the Constitution should recognise ethnicity, while 34.7% state that the Constitution

should have no reference to ethnicity. From an ethnic perspective, 45.1% from the Sinhala,

29.8% from the Tamil, 27.6% from the Up Country Tamil and 39.2% from the Muslim

communities say that the Constitution should recognise ethnicity. From an ethnic perspective,

the respondents who stated that the Constitution should have no reference to ethnicity

consists of 28.3% from the Sinhala, 55.7% from the Tamil, 63.2% from the Up Country Tamil

and 47.4% from the Muslim communities. (Refer Graph 4.5)

When comparing the results of the surveys conducted in the past, it is interesting to note that

in 2013, while 64.6% of Sri Lankans indicated that the Constitution should recognise

ethnicity, 12.1% of Sri Lankans indicated that the Constitution should have no reference to

ethnicity.

Graph 4.5: Do you think that Sri Lanka’s Constitution should recognise ethnicity or

should our constitution have no reference to ethnicity?

Page � of �52 60

0

17.5

35

52.5

70

National Sinhala Tamil Up Country Tamil Muslim

13.49.214.5

26.623.3

47.4

63.255.7

28.334.7 39.2

27.629.8

45.142.1

Yes No Don't Know

Page 55: Democracy survey april 2016 final report

While 74.1% of Sri Lankans are of the opinion that the Government should find a solution to

address the root causes of the ethnic conflict, 12.7% oppose the same. From an ethnic

perspective, 71% from the Sinhala, 83.5% from the Tamil, 80.7% from the Up Country Tamil

and 85.1% from the Muslim community are of the opinion that the Government should find a

solution to address the root causes of the conflict. 13.6% from the Sinhala, 10.6% from the

Tamil, 10.2% from the Up Country Tamil and 9.3% from the Muslim communities are of the

opinion that the Government should not find a solution to address the root causes of the

conflict. (Refer Graph 4.6)

When analysing the survey conducted in March 2015, 80.6% of Sri Lankans indicated that

the Government should, whilst only 6.5% indicated that the Government should not find a

solution to address the root causes of the conflict.

Graph 4.6: In your opinion, do you believe that the Government should find a solution to address the root causes of the ethnic conflict?

From those who indicate that the Government should find a solution to address the root

causes of the conflict, 50.1% of Sri Lankans indicate that they are satisfied with the

Government’s efforts so far, while 26.2% indicate that they are not satisfied. Among those

who are satisfied, it is mostly the Up Country Tamil community with 81.7% indicating the

same. The least satisfied is the Sinhala community with 32.4%. (Refer Graph 4.7) Page � of �53 60

0

22.5

45

67.5

90

National Sinhala Tamil Up Country Tamil Muslim

5.79.15.915.413.2 9.310.210.613.612.7

85.180.783.57174.1

Yes No Don't Know

Page 56: Democracy survey april 2016 final report

When analysing the data with the survey conducted in March 2015, there appears to be a

drop in the percentage of respondents who are satisfied with the Government’s efforts, and

an increase in the percentage of respondents who are dissatisfied with the Government

efforts in addressing the root causes of the conflict. As such, in March 2015, nearly 57% of

Sri Lankans were satisfied while nearly 19% were not.

Graph 4.7: If yes, how satisfied are you with the Government’s efforts in addressing the

root causes of the ethnic conflict?

When asked whether a credible mechanism is required to look into accountability of what

happened during the final stages of the war, 42.2% of Sri Lankans are of the opinion that

there should be such a mechanism, whilst 44.2% are of the opinion that there should not be

one. From an ethnic perspective, it is the Tamil community with 89.8% who mostly feel that

there should be a credible mechanism to look into accountability of what happened during

the final stages of the war, followed by 77% from the Up Country Tamil, 72.7% from the

Muslim and 29.6% from the Sinhala communities. From those who are of the opinion that a

credible mechanism is not required to look into accountability of what happened during the

Page � of �54 60

0

15

30

45

60

National Sinhala Tamil Up Country Tamil Muslim

6.74.27.112.911.1

0.605.611.69.2

5.58.58.1

20.817 17.1

5.66.613.412.6

50.654.957.4

35.841

19.526.8

15.2

5.49.1

Very Satisfied Somewhat Satisfied Neither Satisified not Dissatisfied Somewhat Dissatisfied Very Dissatisfied Don't Know

Page 57: Democracy survey april 2016 final report

final stages of the war, it is mostly the Sinhala community with 55.8% who indicate the same.

(Refer Graph 4.8)

When analysing the data from previous surveys, there is an increase in the percentage of

respondents who believe that there should not be a credible mechanism to look into what

happened in the final stages of the war. While 36.3% in March 2015 and 37.7% in October

2015 were not in favour of a credible mechanism, this figure has risen to 42.2% in February

2016.

There appears to be a noteworthy increase in the Sinhala community of those who are not in

favour of a credible mechanism - 44.4% in March 2015 and 47.1% in October 2015 from the

Sinhala community indicated that they were not in favour of a credible mechanism, while this

figure rose to 55.8% in February 2016.

Graph 4.8: Do you think there should be a credible mechanism to look into

accountability of what happened during the final stages of the war?

From those who indicate that there should be a credible mechanism to look into

accountability of what happened during the final stages of the war, 47.3% of Sri Lankans are

of the opinion that it should be an exclusively domestic one, whilst 9.2% of Sri Lankans are of

Page � of �55 60

0

22.5

45

67.5

90

National Sinhala Tamil Up Country Tamil Muslim

1612.64.714.613.5 11.310.35.5

55.844.2

72.77789.8

29.642.2

Yes No Don't Know

Page 58: Democracy survey april 2016 final report

the opinion that it should be an exclusively international one. 37.3% of Sri Lankans are of the

opinion that the mechanism should be a combination of both a domestic and international

one.

From an ethnic perspective, it is mostly the Sinhala community who favour an exclusively

domestic mechanism with 69.3% indicating the same. This figure is followed by 19% from

the Tamil, 26.5% from the Up Country Tamil and 26.1% from the Muslim communities.

From those who favour an exclusively international mechanism, it is the Tamil community with

26.2% indicating the same. This figure is followed by, 17.6% from the Up Country Tamil

community, 6.3% from the Muslim community and only 1.3% from the Sinhala community.

From those who favour a combination of both a domestic and international mechanism, it is

mostly the Muslim community with 59.2% indicating the same. This figure is followed by

52.9% from the Up Country Tamil, 50.5% from the Tamil and 22.6% from the Sinhala

communities. (Refer Graph 4.9)

Graph 4.9: If yes, in your opinion please select the statement which accurately reflects

your views on the assessment of alleged war crimes/ crimes against humanity, that

occurred during the final stages of the war?

Page � of �56 60

0

17.5

35

52.5

70

National Sinhala Tamil Up Country Tamil Muslim

8.52.94.36.86.2

59.252.950.5

22.6

37.3

6.3

17.626.2

1.39.2

26.126.519

69.3

47.3

Exclusively Domestic Mechanism Exclusively International Mechanism A Combination of both Domestic and International Don't Know

Page 59: Democracy survey april 2016 final report

The respondents who believe that there should be an exclusively international or a hybrid

court system to investigate into what happened during the final stages of the war were asked

to indicate as to what nationality they would prefer the judges, prosecutors, lawyers and

investigators to be from. Most respondents were of the opinion that they would prefer judges,

prosecutors, lawyers and investigators to be from the USA (27.4%), followed by India (19%)

and Norway (4.2%).

From an ethnic perspective, it is evident that respondents from the Sinhala, Tamil and Muslim

communities mostly prefer judges, prosecutors, lawyers and investigators to be from the USA

while the Up Country Tamil community prefer judges, prosecutors, lawyers and investigators

to be from India.

The respondents who believe that there should be an exclusively domestic mechanism were

asked as to what ethnicity they would prefer the judges, prosecutors, lawyers and

investigators to be from. 5.8% of the respondents prefer only Sinhalese individuals, 2.2% of

respondents prefer only Tamil individuals while 62.7% of Sri Lankans indicate that individuals

from a combination of ethnicities should act as judges, prosecutors, lawyers and

investigators. 14.2% of the respondents indicate that they are not concerned with the

ethnicity of the judges, prosecutors, lawyers and investigators. (Refer Graph 4.10)

On the topic relating to transitional justice measures proposed by the Government, 50.8% of

Sri Lankans are not aware of the Government’s promise to establish a special court with a

Truth Commission, an Office of Reparations and an Office of Missing Persons, while only

20.6% of Sri Lankans are aware of the same.

Along those who indicate that they are aware, it is mostly the Tamil community with 32.2%

followed by 29.7% from the Muslim community, 18.4% from the Up Country Tamil community

and 17.9% from the Sinhala community who indicate the same. From those who indicate that

they are not aware, it is mostly the Muslim community with 52.8% followed by 52.1% from

the Sinhala community, 43.2% from the Tamil community and 41.4% from the Up Country

Tamil community who indicate the same. (Refer Graph 4.11)

Page � of �57 60

Page 60: Democracy survey april 2016 final report

Graph 4.10: If you are of the opinion that there should be an exclusively domestic mechanism, what ethnicity would you prefer the judges, prosecutors, lawyers and investigators to be from?

Graph 4.11: As a means of addressing transitional justice in the country, the Government has promised to establish a special court with a Truth Commission, an Office of Reparations and an Office of Missing Persons. Are you aware of this?

Page � of �58 60

0

22.5

45

67.5

90

National Sinhala Tamil Up Country Tamil Muslim

1018.923.8

13.215.18.37.58.2

18.814.2

81.771.7

56.558.562.7

01.910.202.2 001.49.55.8

Only Sinhalese Individuals Only Tamil Individuals Individuals from a combination of ethnicities I am not concerned with what enthnicity the individuals are from Don't Know

0

15

30

45

60

National Sinhala Tamil Up Country Tamil Muslim

17.4

40.2

24.63028.6

52.8

41.443.252.150.8

29.7

18.4

32.2

17.920.6

Yes No Don't Know

Page 61: Democracy survey april 2016 final report

From those who are aware of the Government’s promise to establish a special court with a

Truth Commission, an Office of Reparations and an Office of Missing Persons, 64.2% of Sri

Lankans approve (with 29.6% strongly approving) while 20.1% disapprove.

The Muslim community expressed the highest level of approval with 87.9%, followed by

81.3% from the Up Country Tamil, 80% from the Tamil and 54.4% from the Sinhala

communities. From those who disapprove, it is mostly the Sinhala community with 27.2%

followed by 8.6% from the Muslim community, 6.3% from the Up Country Tamil community

and 4% from the Tamil community. (Refer Graph 4.12)

Graph 4.12: If yes, please indicate as to how much you approve/ disapprove the same?

The resolution titled ‘Promoting Reconciliation, Accountability and Human Rights in Sri Lanka’

was submitted to the UNHRC in October 2015, and was co-sponsored by Sri Lanka and 25

additional co-sponsors. Many initiatives have been proposed in line with the UNHRC

resolution which hopes to achieve a long term goal of attaining truth and justice in post war

Sri Lanka. Taking this into consideration, the respondents were asked to indicate key issues

that they would highlight, if they were to appear before or be present at public sitting on the

transitional justice process of the country. 28.8% of Sri Lankans are of the opinion that issues

in relation to reparations, which includes the victims’ entitlement for redress and a proper Page � of �59 60

0

15

30

45

60

National Sinhala Tamil Up Country Tamil Muslim 3.4

12.547.46.4 1.702.7

12.79.3 6.96.31.3

14.510.8

0012119.3

51.7

31.3

54.7

25.834.6 36.2

50

25.328.629.6

Strongly Approve Somewhat Approve Neither Approve nor Disapprove Somewhat Disapprove Stongly Disapprove Don't Know

Page 62: Democracy survey april 2016 final report

policy framework need to be addressed followed by 11.4% who indicate that issues

pertaining to non-recurrence must be addressed.

5.6% of Sri Lankans are of the opinion that issues in relation to the right to know the truth

should be addressed, followed by 9.2% who indicated that issues with regard to the right to

justice and an unbiased judicial process should be addressed. From an ethnic perspective it

is mostly the Up Country Tamil community with 11.9% who indicate that issues with regard to

the right to know the truth should be addressed. This figure is followed by 8% from the

Muslim, 6.5% from the Tamil and 4.9% from the Sinhala communities.

From the respondents who are of the opinion that issues pertaining to the right to justice

must be addressed, it is mostly the Tamil community who supports this with 36.4% indicating

the same. This figure is followed by 20.1% from the Muslim, 11.9% from the Up Country

Tamil and 3.6% from the Sinhala communities.

From the respondents who are of the opinion that issues pertaining to reparations must be

addressed, it is mostly the Sinhala community with 31.8%. This figure is followed by 28.8%

from the Up Country Tamil, 20.1% from the Tamil and 14.8% from the Muslim communities.

That issues pertaining to the guarantee of non-recurrence must be addressed, it is mostly the

Sinhala community with 13.2% who hold this view, followed by 9.8% from the Muslim, 3.8%

from the Tamil and 1.9% from the Up Country Tamil communities.

However, it is important to note that a majority of Sri Lankans (60.4%) remain unaware as to

the issues that they would highlight, if they were to appear before a public sitting on

transitional justice.

The respondents were asked to indicate as to what they would like to see from the current

and future initiatives taken by the Government on ensuring transitional justice in the country.

While most are unaware as to what should come out of the process with 65.3% indicating

that they didn’t know, 21.7% of Sri Lankans indicate that the Government’s initiatives in

ensuring transitional justice in the country should strengthen the rule of law, promote human

rights and ensure unity amongst the different ethnic groups that would secure peace, and a

guarantee of non-recurrence of violence in the future.

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