Fear grips refugees after UNHCR says it will close Sri Lanka operations

The UNHCR plans to close its operations in Sri Lanka by the end of 2024, leaving hundreds of refugees, primarily Rohingya and Pakistani, in a precarious situation. The closure will end the monthly allowances and support provided to refugees, who are already struggling due to Sri Lanka's economic crisis and legal restrictions on work. Refugees fear being stranded without support, as Sri Lanka lacks a domestic legal framework for asylum seekers. The UNHCR's departure raises concerns about increased abuse and deportations, with calls for Sri Lanka to develop a national asylum system and provide basic rights to refugees.

Bombs to buzzing beaches: Sri Lanka sees tourism surge after long crisis

Sri Lanka's tourism industry is experiencing a significant resurgence after years of crises, including the 2019 bombings, the COVID-19 pandemic, and economic and political turmoil. The country recorded over 1.3 million tourist arrivals by December 2023, the highest in four years, with India and Russia being the top sources of tourists. Despite the positive trend, industry stakeholders emphasize the need to attract high-spending tourists to boost revenue. Challenges such as increased taxes, mounting debt, and outdated infrastructure remain, but the government and tourism authorities are optimistic, launching global marketing campaigns and offering incentives to attract more visitors. The sector also faces a brain drain, with many skilled workers migrating abroad. However, efforts are being made to train and retain local talent to support the industry's growth.

‘Palestine will win’: Sri Lanka businesses raise funds for war-ravaged Gaza

Sri Lankan businesses, led by young entrepreneurs like Aisha Altaf, are raising funds for Gaza through a fundraiser at Dolci Falasteen restaurant in Colombo. The LURE Foundation, in partnership with the Africa Muslims Agency, has collected over 2.1 million Sri Lankan rupees to provide aid, including hot meals and winter jackets for displaced children. The event symbolizes solidarity with Palestine amidst ongoing conflict. Sri Lanka's historical and political context is discussed, highlighting the country's stance on the Israel-Palestine conflict and the parallels drawn by Sri Lankan Tamils between Gaza and their own civil war experiences. Protests across Sri Lanka have shown widespread support for Palestine, with various community leaders and activists participating.

Sri Lanka's crisis unites communities as country faces economic despair

Sri Lanka is experiencing a severe economic crisis, exacerbated by political corruption and mismanagement. The crisis has united Sri Lankans across ethnic and religious divides, as they collectively face hardships such as food shortages, power cuts, and a lack of essential supplies. Community kitchens, like those run by the Voice Foundation, have become hubs for solidarity. The crisis led to the resignation of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, with Ranil Wickremesinghe taking over as the new president. However, Wickremesinghe's ties to the former regime have led to skepticism and continued protests. The country is facing a long road to recovery, with experts suggesting it may take until 2030 to achieve economic stability. The World Food Programme has reported widespread food insecurity, and the IMF's support is seen as crucial. Despite the challenges, there is a sense of hope as communities come together, moving past ethnic divisions that have long been exploited by politicians.

One elephant a day: Sri Lanka wildlife conflict deepens as death toll rises

Sri Lanka is experiencing a severe human-elephant conflict, with an average of one elephant death per day in the first three months of the year, many due to human intervention. The Department of Wildlife Conservation recorded 151 elephant deaths, with at least 67 attributed to human causes such as shootings and electrocutions from electric fences. The conflict also resulted in a record number of human fatalities last year. Conservationists and experts criticize the government's ineffective strategies, such as elephant drives and electric fences, and call for urgent solutions, including proper land allocation, increased staff for the Department of Wildlife Conservation, and implementation of a national action plan to mitigate the conflict. The government's failure to allocate sufficient budget and political interference are also highlighted as obstacles to resolving the issue.

One elephant a day reported dead in Sri Lanka as their habitats are parceled out

Sri Lanka faces a severe human-elephant conflict, with an average of one elephant dying daily in the first three months of 2023, half due to human causes. Conservationists blame flawed land allocation and ineffective measures like elephant drives and electric fences. The Department of Wildlife Conservation is criticized for inadequate staffing and poor enforcement. Experts call for urgent action, including better land management, proper placement of electric fences, and minimizing political interference. Without effective measures, over 70% of the elephant population could be lost, exacerbating human and elephant suffering.

After Al Jazeera story, Sri Lanka says crypto scheme a ‘pyramid’

The Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) is considering criminal action against those behind the Sports Chain crypto investment scheme, which has been identified as a pyramid scheme. Following an Al Jazeera investigation, the CBSL and the Financial Crimes Investigation Division (FCID) have been pursuing legal actions, including money laundering charges against nine suspects. The scheme defrauded over 8,000 Sri Lankans, leading to significant financial losses. The CBSL is seeking to press charges under the Banking Act to help investors recover their money. The case continues to unfold with further court hearings scheduled.

In Sri Lanka, activists push for ban on using human contraceptive jabs on animals

Sri Lankan authorities are considering banning the use of the human contraceptive injection Depo-Provera on animals following criticism from animal rights activists and veterinarians. The injection, intended for humans, has been used in a pilot project to sterilize stray dogs, raising concerns about its safety and practicality. The Veterinary Drug Control Authority has not yet banned the injection for animals, but proposals are being considered. The Public Health Veterinary Services office initiated the project to reduce rabies deaths, but funding constraints have limited clinical sterilization efforts. Animal welfare groups and veterinary associations have called for a ban, citing severe health risks for animals.

Four-day music festival in Sri Lanka elephant territory set to continue, despite protests

A four-day music festival in Habarana, Sri Lanka, organized by Deep Jungle Entertainment, is proceeding despite protests and concerns about its impact on local wildlife, particularly elephants. The event, held on private land near forest reserves, has raised alarms due to potential disturbances from sound and light emissions. Environmental groups and experts have voiced their concerns, while regulatory bodies have shown mixed responses. The Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau recommended canceling the event if proper approvals were not obtained, but the organizers insist on continuing as planned.

I can’t afford my medicine: A Sri Lankan granny’s monthly costs

Jacintha, a grandmother in Colombo, struggles to afford basic necessities due to Sri Lanka's economic crisis. Rising costs of essential items like milk powder, cooking gas, and kerosene have forced her to make difficult choices, including skipping necessary medical treatments. Her husband, Nishantha, works long hours as a security guard to support their family, which includes their two granddaughters. Despite their efforts, the family faces significant financial challenges, relying on donations for school supplies and cutting back on meals to make ends meet. The article highlights the severe impact of inflation and economic mismanagement on ordinary citizens.