Anticipate And Act 2:

Globally, governance systems are facing unprecedented challenges: institutional fragility, democratic backsliding, shrinking civic space, and declining trust in public institutions. These trends are compounded by climate shocks, inequality, and digital disruption, undermining peace and sustainable development. SDG 16—promoting peaceful, just, and inclusive societies—remains among the least advanced goals, while progress on SDG 5—gender equality—has been fragile and increasingly contested. Addressing these challenges requires integrated approaches that strengthen institutions, protect rights, and foster inclusive participation. 

In Sri Lanka, the development challenge is shaped by post-conflict legacies, economic instability, and governance gaps that threaten social cohesion and resilience. Persistent inequalities, gender-based violence, and limited participation of women and youth in decision-making continue to undermine inclusive governance and peacebuilding. Civic space remains contested, and trust in institutions is fragile, particularly in the wake of political transitions and socio-economic pressures. These dynamics risk exacerbating polarization and weakening democratic resilience.

The project will focus on two priority areas for Sri Lanka: 

1. Advancing gender equality and preventing gender-based violence (GBV) through legal reforms, survivor services, and public awareness campaigns. 
2. Strengthening capacities for social cohesion and conflict prevention, including youth engagement under the Youth, Peace and Security (YPS) agenda. 

By the end of the implementation period (Oct 2025 – Sept 2026), Sri Lanka is expected to demonstrate: 

• Improved institutional capacity for inclusive governance and gender-responsive service delivery. 
• Enhanced protection and participation of women and marginalized groups in governance and peacebuilding processes. 
• Stronger community mechanisms for conflict prevention and resilience, aligned with the YPS agenda.