Govt s responsibility to ensure women s rights are realized in everyday life, not just in laws – PM

Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya emphasized that it is the government's duty to make sure women's political, economic, and social rights are not just written in laws but are truly experienced in the daily lives of all women in Sri Lanka. She shared these thoughts as the Chief Guest at the National Celebration of International Women’s Day 2026 on March 8, which took place at the Rabindranath Tagore Memorial Auditorium at the University of Ruhuna in Matara. The theme for the event was “The Pride of a Prosperous Country – She is the Nation’s Path Forward,” as stated by the Prime Minister’s Media Division. During her speech, the Prime Minister remarked, “The freedoms we have today, like the right to education and political participation, were gained through the efforts of women throughout history. This day is more than just about flowers. Our aim is to protect these rights and build a society where every woman can pursue a brighter future.” She also highlighted that the products of women entrepreneurs in Sri Lanka should not be limited to local markets. The government is striving to create conditions that enable them to contribute actively to the national economy. Furthermore, she mentioned that the Parliamentary Women’s Caucus has proposed a National Care Policy to acknowledge both the paid and unpaid work done by women for their families and the economy of the country. The Prime Minister urged women to take a strong stand for humanity amidst the various global crises and called on the women of Sri Lanka to come together with compassion and advocate for peace. During the event, Minister of Women and Child Affairs Saroja Savithri Paulraj remarked that a new era has begun, where the efforts of women working abroad to boost the country’s foreign reserves will finally be recognized. She also announced that a comprehensive support system involving all ministries will be put in place to assist women entrepreneurs, female heads of households, and those who have faced violence.