Sri Lanka: Nationwide protests over economic conditions continue as unionized workers plan strike April 28

Event

Protests denouncing the government's handling of an ongoing economic crisis continue across Sri Lanka as of April 26. A coalition of trade and labor unions has called for a nationwide one-day strike April 28; the work stoppage is part of demonstrations at district headquarters and city centers April 20-28. The action will involve most public entities with worker unions, including the railways, postal offices, banks, and government schools. Public health workers will also protest nationwide April 28, with possible worsening of disruptions to non-emergency services amid a prolonged shortage in medical supplies.

Civil Unrest
Indefinite protests continue across Sri Lanka, with sporadic violence reported. Further demonstrations by civil, political, and labor groups over economic issues are certain in the coming weeks. Protests are occurring or are planned in several cities like Colombo, Galle, and Kandy; activists typically hold sit-ins or marches at or near fuel stations, hospitals, government buildings, politicians' residences, public squares, railway stations, and along major roadways connecting cities. The largest indefinite protest is underway at Colombo's Galle Face Green.

Localized transport disruptions and a heavy police presence are likely near any large demonstrations that may materialize. Protests could turn violent quickly; security forces are usually quick to resort to the use of force to disperse unruly gatherings. Businesses in areas experiencing violent protests and/or heightened security measures could close temporarily as a precaution. Power outages and fuel shortages will likely continue interrupting business operations in the medium term, potentially prompting further disruptions and protests.

Security Measures
Authorities will almost certainly maintain a heightened security posture, mainly in Colombo, until protests abate. President Gotabaya Rajapaksa earlier imposed a state of public emergency April 2-6. Officials also imposed a nationwide curfew 18:00 April 2-06:00 April 4; officials may reinstate the curfew at short notice.

Official Advisories
Since April 7, several countries such as Australia, Canada, the UK, and the US are cautioning their citizens in Sri Lanka to avoid demonstrations and plan for shortages of essential items. However, travel risk assessments remain unchanged at moderate to high levels.

Context

Various groups have held protests in Sri Lanka in recent weeks to denounce worsening economic conditions and the government's response to the situation. A lack of foreign reserves to service external payments has caused an economic crisis, with worsening shortages of essential goods such as food, fuel, and medications. Fuel shortages and power outages have, in turn, disrupted water supply, freight and passenger transport, and internet services. The country suspended foreign debt payments April 12, with USD-4 billion payments due in 2022. The government will obtain financial assistance from the IMF, marking the 17th time the nation has sought a bailout from the global lender since its independence.

The Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) party led by Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa has lost its majority in the parliament as several coalition partners and lawmakers withdrew support. President Gotabaya Rajapaksa has refused to resign, while no other party or coalition has staked a claim to form an alternative government in the 225-seat assembly. A fresh cabinet was appointed April 18, after cabinet ministers, excluding Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, resigned April 3. Political uncertainty over the potential collapse of the government continues, as the opposition, Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) party, plans to file a no-confidence motion against the government in the coming days.

Advice

Avoid all protests due to the potential violence. Do not attempt to cross protester roadblocks; wait for the police to clear them before proceeding. If clashes break out, leave the area immediately and take shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Allow additional travel time in Colombo and other urban centers through at least April. Plan for long queues to obtain essential items; ensure contingency plans account for the continued access to essential goods and services. Confirm business and medical appointments, deliveries, road status, and transport reservations in advance, especially during the islandwide strike April 28. Plan for service disruptions during strikes. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Abide by official instructions, including any curfew orders.