The Center for Investigative Reporting (CIR) is launching a series of public discussions on electoral integrity and the role of various stakeholders in protecting democracy in Sri Lanka.
The first of the series will focus on the role of civil society in protecting electoral integrity. An eminent panel of speakers will join the first discussion scheduled for February 6, 2024, from 3-5 pm at the Sri Lanka Foundation Institute (SLFI).
The four experts speaking at the event are:
- Dr. Vinya Ariyaratne
President, Sarvodaya Shramadana Movement
- Rohana Hettiarachchi
Executive Director, People’s Action for Free & Fair Elections (PAFFREL)
- Nadishani Perera
Executive Director, Transparency International Sri Lanka (TISL)
- Kanaka Abeygunawardana
Convenor – Gender & Elections Working Group (GEWG)
The discussion will be moderated by Dilrukshi Handunnetti, Co-Founder/Director of CIR.
The forthcoming elections are likely to intensify political rivalries, further dividing the population along political and ethno-religious lines. Election disinformation and hate narratives are likely to get amplified with the potential use of artificial intelligence and political operatives. Issues of bribery, corruption, election delays, lack of transparency and accountability, debt traps and an electoral system that fails to serve the public will become key topics, reflecting people’s disenchantment with the political class.
A limited number of seats are available for interested journalists. Please register using the link provided below.
The slots are filled on a first come first served basis and CIR will inform via individual email of the ability to join the event.
The discussion series on electoral integrity is supported by the Netherlands Embassy in Colombo.
