The latest census reveals an increasingly aging country. People over 60 already represent 18 per cent of the population and could become a quarter by 2041. Due to low labour force participation, inadequate pensions, and a lack of care services, the risk of vulnerability for millions of elderly people is growing. Without reforms, aging risks turning into social and economic crises.
Various memorial events were held in Colombo yesterday for the 269 people killed in attacks on churches and hotels on 21 April 2019. The former head of Sri Lanka’s intelligence service was detained last February, accused of complicity with Islamist bombers. For the cardinal, some politicians and officials are afraid and nervous about the investigation and are trying to sabotage it.
A shortfall of 13.2 billion rupees has emerged, caused by staff within the bank. Criticism of the oversight system, with CEO Kelum Edirisinghe also under scrutiny. Analysts and experts describe it as a “failure” in “supervision”. A case reminiscent of similar instances of malpractice that have occurred in the past.
One year after Bergoglio’s death, the Church in Sri Lanka has placed the theme of synodality – dear to his heart – at the centre of the Sunday that annually brings together the grassroots groups which, for over thirty years, have been gathering in their neighbourhoods or villages to walk together in faith. Bishop Wickramasinghe: “A privileged place to live out each person’s responsibility towards others”.
For the first time, tea estate workers mark the event together at the local church, a sign of unity and dialogue between different communities in a wounded land. “Those who love freedom, those who live in freedom, do not trap anyone,” said For Father Jeevantha. The new year will hopefully open a path based on love, unity, and justice.
Studies by the University of Peradeniya show that atmospheric nitrogen can be fixed into the soil and rapidly improve it thanks to sunn hemp (Crotalaria juncea), reducing the need for chemical fertilisers, which are in short supply following the Strait of Hormuz blockade. Experts are urging the various stakeholders, including farmers, to leverage its potential to boost the country's food security.
