Colombo: International Women’s Day has been celebrated annually across the world on 8 March for over a century. In Sri Lanka, the role of women in the economic, political, social, and cultural spheres is distinctive and significant. While this day serves to recognize and appreciate the immense responsibilities borne by women across all these sectors, and to reflect in particular on women’s rights, freedom, and security, such recognition cannot be confined to a single day.

According to News.LK, women, who represent 52 percent of Sri Lanka’s population, play a substantial role in the national economy. Besides their unpaid contribution as homemakers, they significantly impact the garment industry, plantation sector, foreign employment, and the health, education, and service sectors. The strength and commitment demonstrated by women have been pivotal in achieving many of the country’s economic milestones in 2025.

In pursuit of social justice, plans are being implemented to ensure gender equality and enable wome
n to participate more actively in the economic process. The Government has prioritized structural changes to promote women’s rights and combat violence and discrimination in various spheres. The current Parliament has the highest number of female Members of Parliament, including, for the first time, a female representative from the Malayagam community. This is seen as a crucial step towards nurturing a generation of women who can contribute significantly to the nation’s transformation.

The theme for this year’s International Women’s Day, ‘In a Thriving Nation – She Leads with Determination,’ highlights the strength and dignity of Sri Lankan women. As the nation strives to overcome challenges and foster a progressive future grounded in ethics and compassion, the President extends warm wishes for a meaningful International Women’s Day and calls for women to join as strong partners in this journey.