Pathfinder proposes National Security Strategy for Sri Lanka

2026-03-05 - 13:57

The Pathfinder Foundation has proposed a comprehensive National Security Strategy (NSS) for Sri Lanka for 2026, urging the government to adopt a unified policy framework to address evolving national security challenges. The think tank said Sri Lanka has faced multiple security threats since the early 1970s, including insurgencies, terrorism, coup attempts and foreign involvement, but still lacks a formally adopted National Security Policy (NSP) or a comprehensive strategy to guide long-term security planning. In a proposal expected to be launched in March 2026, the Pathfinder Foundation outlined a broad strategy aimed at strengthening governance, internal security, economic resilience and national preparedness. The report notes that many major and middle-power countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, France, Sweden and Japan, have adopted national security strategies in recent years. Several countries in South and Southeast Asia have also developed structured frameworks to address emerging security threats. India, for instance, unveiled its first comprehensive national counter-terrorism policy, “PRAHAAR”, in February 2026, while Pakistan introduced its National Security Policy in 2022. Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Bangladesh and Nepal have also adopted or updated national security frameworks in recent years. The proposed Sri Lankan strategy includes 11 chapters covering areas such as national interests, strategic objectives, threat assessments and implementation mechanisms. A key component of the framework is the use of the DIME model, Diplomacy, Information, Military and Economy, as instruments of national power. Under the diplomatic pillar, the report recommends maintaining a balanced foreign policy that preserves strategic autonomy. It also calls for the strategic use of information in an era of rapid digital communication, strengthening military capabilities through technological advancement and enhancing economic resilience by attracting foreign investment and expanding exports. The proposed framework identifies several pillars of national security, including good governance, law and order, cybersecurity and protection of critical infrastructure, energy security, food security, health security, environmental protection and human capital development. Among its key institutional recommendations is the establishment of a fully legislated National Security Council (NSC) supported by a National Security Advisor and a National Security Secretariat to improve coordination across government agencies. Although a National Security Council was established in 1999 under emergency regulations, the report notes that its legal basis lapsed after the state of emergency was lifted in 2011. A proposal approved by the Cabinet in 2019 to create a fully legislated NSC has yet to be implemented. The Pathfinder Foundation said its proposal is intended to stimulate policy discussion and assist the government in developing a comprehensive national security framework for Sri Lanka.