Sri Lanka Improves Position In Global Peace Rankings
Why in the News ?
Sri Lanka has risen 14 places to 67th rank in the Global Peace Index (GPI) 2026, becoming the second most peaceful country in South Asia, reflecting progress in political stability, public security, environmental governance, and post-crisis recovery.
Sri Lanka’s Improved Performance in Global Peace Index
● Sri Lanka secured the 67th position in the Global Peace Index 2026, marking one of the most significant improvements in South Asia.
● The country improved by 14 places compared to its previous ranking.
● It is now ranked second in South Asia, highlighting notable gains in peace and stability.
● The improvement reflects Sri Lanka’s continued recovery from nearly three decades of civil war, which ended in 2009.
● Efforts to strengthen public security, governance, social harmony, and streamline environmental clearances have contributed to the better ranking.
● The progress also indicates growing confidence in the country’s institutional and political framework, including adherence to the precautionary principle in development projects.
Factors Driving Sri Lanka’s Peace Recovery
● Sri Lanka has undertaken measures to improve political stability and reduce internal tensions while strengthening environmental impact assessment procedures.
● The country has focused on rebuilding social cohesion after years of ethnic conflict, including efforts toward a pollution free environment.
● Recovery efforts following the 2022 economic and financial crisis have played a crucial role in restoring stability.
● Reforms aimed at strengthening public institutions and law enforcement, including coastal regulation zone management and forest conservation act compliance, have enhanced perceptions of safety.
● Economic resilience initiatives have helped rebuild investor and public confidence, supported by transparent environmental clearance processes.
● The improved ranking demonstrates progress despite challenges arising from political unrest and economic difficulties in recent years, while avoiding retrospective environmental clearances and implementing the polluter pays principle.
| About Global Peace Index : ● The Global Peace Index (GPI) is the world’s leading measure of peacefulness. ● It is published annually by the Institute for Economics and Peace. ● The index evaluates 163 countries and territories, covering more than 99% of the world’s population. ● It measures peace using three broad domains:○ Societal Safety and Security○ Ongoing Domestic and International Conflict○ Militarisation ● The GPI uses multiple qualitative and quantitative indicators to assess peace levels, including environmental democracy and governance standards. ● The report highlights trends in global stability, conflict, violence, and security. ● In recent years, the index has noted a decline in overall global peacefulness, with more countries experiencing deterioration than improvement. ● The GPI serves as an important tool for policymakers, researchers, and international organisations to evaluate peace and development outcomes. |