Sri Lanka

by Melani Manel Perera | SRI LANKA

Father Aloysius Pieris died in Sri Lanka at the age of 92. He was the first non-Buddhist to earn a doctorate from the University of Sri Jayewardenepura. A scholar of Eastern religions, he founded the Tulana Research Centre in 1974, also very active in social work. He was the first Asian member of the editorial board of the magazine Concilium.

by Melani Manel Perera

Following the sinking of an Iranian frigate off Galle, Sri Lankan authorities are closely monitoring the presence of a second Iranian ship in the country’s exclusive economic zone. The vessel, which some sources believe to be a logistics vessel, has reportedly requested assistance due to technical problems amid rising tensions in the Indian Ocean.

| 05/03/2026
| SRI LANKA
by Arundathie Abeysinghe

Imports from South Africa are under scrutiny because of poor quality coal, resulting in substandard performance by the Lak Vijaya Power (LVP) plant. Experts say the role of an accredited independent laboratory is crucial. For the opposition, the “entire coal procurement process was rigged.”

| 28/02/2026
| SRI LANKA
by Melani Manel Perera

Mandatory background checks will be introduced for employees working with girls and boys in government institutions. Criminal background records and periodic checks, including for existing staff, will be used. The goal is to boost prevention and institutional accountability.

| 25/02/2026
| SRI LANKA
by Melani Manel Perera

Hundreds of religious leaders gathered by the Sangha have issued a ten-point statement and launched a petition on which they are collecting signatures from the faithful. They claim that the current government is pursuing a de facto separation between state and religion despite the role reserved for it by the Constitution. They have called for protection for temples, statues and religious teaching, but also for action against those who denigrate the Buddhist faith on social networks.

| 23/02/2026
| SRI LANKA
by Melani Manel Perera

A journey marked by spiritual and social activities to deepen understanding and unity between spouses and their relationship with their children. The example of a pilgrimage to the Shrine of Our Lady of Madhu experienced by the families of Marriage Encounter in the parish of Puttalam.

| 22/02/2026
| ECCLESIA IN ASIA
by Arundathie Abeysinghe

Less restrictive land use is threatening the 72-year-old structure located in southeast Sri Lanka. Two pillars have been destroyed with five more at risk. Farmers allege favouritism towards a government-affiliated cooperative. For decades, illegal sand mining has generated huge profits.

| 20/02/2026
| SRI LANKA
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“L’Asia: ecco il nostro comune compito per il terzo millennio!” - Giovanni Paolo II, da “Alzatevi, andiamo”