LESSONS FOR SRI LANKA FROM THE RWANDA EXPERIENCE

Abstract

Sri Lanka had an ethnic disturbance situation since 1981 which concluded in 2009. In Sri Lanka, there were thousands of civilians and combatants who were killed during the conflict. The genocide in Rwanda was based on two ethnic groups, the Hutu and the Tutsi. 85% was Hutu, 14% was Tutsi, and 1% was Twa. The ethnic conflict in Sri Lanka has many root causes and consequences that are closely interlinked. Rwanda has successfully overcome the accountability challenges through good governance. It seems clear that in comparison to Rwanda, Sri Lanka’s position after the war appears to be quite strong, but both countries faced pressure from international community for an accountability mechanism in the post conflict era. The Objective of this research is to study Rwanda’s experience and how it can be adopted to suit Sri Lanka’s needs.

The study was carried out by a survey and an interview held with, Rwanda Hon Consul Cally Alles. A Questionnaire has been formed and distributed among the 36 Rwandan scholars in Kotelawala Defence University to facilitate responses to research questions and eventually contribute to the findings of this study. Written consent was obtained before distributing the questionnaire. Maximum number of participants who were in survey believed that Constitutional and Legal recognition for local democracy (86%), Capacity Building for Effective Leadership (86%) and Open Local Government –Transparency (78%) are key factors for accountability issues which should be addressed. In view of Rwanda Hon Consul it is found that Chain of command is always observed, Promotion and appointments are made purely on qualification.

Every country faces different development challenges. But Rwanda’s ambitious and complex reform program may offer lessons for others. Taking lessons from good governance in Rwanda will help Sri Lanka to overcome accountability charges laid by the international community.