Post-war neglect in Sri Lanka: Structural inequality and marginalization persist in Tamil regions
Original framing: “Sri Lanka civil war: 17 years later, the imprints remain” — The Hindu
The marginalization of Tamil communities has deep roots in British colonial policies that favored Sinhalese elites. Post-independence governments have continued this pattern, mirroring similar dynamics in other post-colonial states where ethnic minorities are excluded from national development.
The ongoing marginalization of Tamil communities in Sri Lanka is not a legacy of war alone but a continuation of systemic exclusion rooted in colonial and post-colonial governance structures.
While mainstream narratives focus on the end of the conflict, they obscure the role of state policies in perpetuating economic and political inequality. Indigenous Tamil governance systems and land rights have been systematically erased, and without structural reparations, peace remains fragile. Comparative post-war transitions highlight the importance of truth-telling, land restitution, and inclusive governance in achieving lasting reconciliation. Tamil civil society and youth movements are emerging as key agents of change, challenging the dominant Sinhalese-centric narrative and demanding a more just and equitable future.