Sri Lanka: Various countries advise caution while operating in Sri Lanka as of April 7 due to nationwide protests over economic conditions /update 11

Event

President Gotabaya Rajapaksa has revoked the state of public emergency effective 00:01 April 6 amid continued civil unrest over an ongoing economic crisis. As of 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. Indefinite large and disruptive protests denouncing the administration of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa continue in central Colombo, 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 planned in several cities; activists typically hold sit-ins or marches at or near fuel stations, hospitals, government buildings, politicians' residences, public squares, and along major roadways connecting cities. Government employees from various sectors such as transport and healthcare have also held strikes and rallies over labor issues in recent weeks.

Authorities will almost certainly maintain a heightened security posture until protests abate. Officials imposed a nationwide curfew 18:00 April 2-06:00 April 4; officials may reinstate the curfew at short notice. Localized transport disruptions and a heavy police presence are likely near any large demonstrations that may materialize. Protests could turn violent quickly, though 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.

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 largest protests have occurred in Colombo; popular protest locations include the Fort area, Independence Square, the Nelum Pokuna Mawatha intersection, and major roadways connecting the Sri Lankan capital to other cities.

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 with the support of at least 113 out of 225 parliament members. Cabinet ministers, excluding Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, resigned April 3; various high-ranking government officials have resigned thereafter. Dissident coalition partners and opposition parties also refused a power-sharing arrangement under a unified government April 4, heightening political uncertainty over the potential collapse of the government.

Advice

Adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities. Abide by any curfew orders. Reconfirm transport schedules. 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 late 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. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation.