Protect the Protectors: Sri Lanka's Wildlife Rangers Mark World Ranger Day Amid Mounting Challenges

Sri Lanka’s wildlife officers are protesting against the dire conditions they face in the line of duty—risking their lives daily with little recognition, support, or resources.

- By Irnam NIZAM

“This is not just a job for us—it’s a sacrifice. And most of the time, no one even sees it,” said M.I.W. Peiris, Secretary of the All Ceylon Wildlife Officers’ Association at an event in Colombo yesterday.

He added: “While we protect the natural wealth of the country, our own lives and livelihoods remain overlooked.”

Sri Lanka, a global biodiversity hotspot, has designated over 15% of its land as protected areas. Yet, just 894 officers currently serve under the Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWC), a mere 56% of the approved cadre of 1,591. The result: fewer rangers covering more ground, often alone, under unsafe and under-resourced conditions.