Sr i L an ka RECONCILIATION THROUGH SOCIAL ACTION OVE RV I E W In 2009, mass military action by Sri Lanka’s armed forces brought an end to the long running and bloody war with the LTTE. The 26-year long conflict, which grew from ethnic tensions between the Buddhist Sinhalese majority and the Hindu Tamil minority, cost more than 100,000 lives and 200 billion USD, destroying lives throughout the nation. We learn about the history of the conflict, and then examine the process of reconciliation amidst the dire needs for economic development, working with local NGOs focused on empowering economically disadvantaged children and youth. These deep connections allow students to gain real insight into the process of sustainable development and reconciliation. 16
GOAL S AND OBJ ECT IVES • Learn the elements of conflict that have taken place in Sri Lanka, and gain an understanding of the true horrors of civil war • Learn how individuals and civil society have responded to the conflicts and reconciliation process in Sri Lanka • Inspire students to understand that there are different ways to respond to conflicts, and build respect for the resiliency of nations and individuals • Evaluate the potential for different models of social enterprises working to spur economic development and create peace in Sri Lanka • Evaluate the role and responsibility of international organizations in fostering peace within Sri Lanka