Building value-centric nation: Navigating complex journey from corruption to integrity

SRI Lanka stands at a pivotal crossroads in its national development, a moment filled with promise, challenge, and profound opportunity. The Government's intensified campaign against bribery and corruption is more than a policy shift; it signals a fundamental reimagining of how our society functions.

- By Rohitha Amarapala

Yet, as we applaud these bold initiatives, it is crucial to understand that corruption in Sri Lanka is deeply systemic, embedded within longstanding socioeconomic structures. Addressing it requires thoughtful, well-planned action that targets the root causes rather than just symptoms.

The urgent and complex need for change

For decades, corruption has entrenched itself deeply within Sri Lanka’s institutions, eroding trust, stifling economic growth, and widening social inequality. Recent reforms, such as strengthening the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC), embracing digital-governance platforms, and enhancing transparency reflect a genuine commitment to accountability. The anticipated benefits are significant: reduced transaction costs, increased foreign investment, better governance, and improved public services.

International research confirms what we intuitively know; countries with lower corruption levels experience stronger economic growth and fairer distribution of wealth. For Sri Lanka, embracing a value-centric culture grounded in integrity is not only ethical but essential for sustainable prosperity.

Understanding the root causes: Why corruption persists in Sri Lanka

To effectively combat corruption, we must first understand its systemic origins. Several interconnected factors have created an environment where corrupt practices flourish:

Lack of transparency in governance

The absence of transparent decision-making processes in Government institutions has created opportunities for corrupt practices. Without clear visibility into how policies are formulated, contracts awarded, and resources allocated, accountability becomes nearly impossible to maintain.

Poor enforcement of law