ISSRS 2017

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Achieving Holistic Peace beyond a Military Victory: case of Sri Lanka.
(1st International Studies Students’ Research Symposium-2017 (ISSRS 2017) ,Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2017) Gallage, H.
The small island state of Sri Lanka is in a period of revival after the end of a civil war which was fought for several decades. The roots of this conflict traces back to certain administrative decisions of colonizers as well as of successive governments which expanded the conflict into a fully-fledged civil war between the Sinhala majority and the Tamil minority represented by the terrorist organization, the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam. After three decades of persistent fighting the war came to closure in 2009 but the question of peacemaking left to answer was perhaps even more challenging. Eight years after the end of war, elements of violence still prevail which not only make it almost impossible to call the peace gained sustainable and holistic, but also probable for a conflict to resurge. Therefore the objective of this research is to analyze the post-war context of Sri Lanka and thereby determine a holistic model of peace which is sustainable beyond the military victory gained back in 2009. The research takes up a qualitative approach and to that end it gathers secondary data that assess the post-war situation of the country. The analysis is largely based on the theoretical analysis of Johan Galtung’s theory of negative and positive peace in relation to post-war Sri Lanka. A careful assessment of the post-war data of Sri Lanka for the period of 2009-2016 suggests that the peace gained following the military victory is negative while lacking peace in its positive, holistic sense. The research findings manifest that although Sri Lanka has been unified territorially its numerous ethnicities are yet to be reconciled into one tightly knitted inclusive society to create the Sri Lankan nation that transcends narrow ethnic disparities. It also concludes that it may require years of commitment and significant upheaval of the attitudes of the public. But if that can be achieved, its results can be relished by many generations to come who shall not be burdened again with the agonies of war.
An Analysis of Socio Cultural Issue related to Unskilled Women Migration from Sri Lanka to Middle East.
(1st International Studies Students’ Research Symposium-2017 (ISSRS 2017) ,Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2017) Alles, D.R.
Since 1977 Sri Lankan unskilled women migration gradually move for substantially important path. Moreover it gathered foreign remittances to the motherland and it becomes key aspect of annual Gross National Product (GNP). And the social aspect of economically wellbeing is encouraged rural or countryside people to migrate, especially women to Middle East as Housemaids. Then in 1985 Sri Lankan Ministry of Foreign employment established Sri Lanka foreign employment Bureau and Sri Lanka foreign employment Agency to support and encourage people. During the 90th century Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Dubai, Oman, Jordan, Lebanon, Bahrain were popular. Then Sri Lanka became a labour source country. This research observed about challengers, difficulties and harassments faced by the housemaids in Middle East and why they become victims of those facts under following objectives. To identify reasons of increased unskilled women migration from Sri Lanka to Middle East. To analyze the Socio and Cultural issues in working places of Middle East. To determine the actions were taken by the government to decrease the problems of Middle East and limitations of that. And secondary data such as researches and recorded data about former housemaid employers may contribute to identify their attitudes on employments in Middle East. Moreover their own experiences will be the great evidences to find key tasks. They do not have proper education of using electronics and about culture. Also cannot against over their master’s behaviors. Because of they are week and powerless. Some of housemaids came back with permanently disabled, sick, sexual harassments, painful experiences or died. And the other social effect is children of migrate mother exploited by the society. Those findings were the outcomes of this research. Suggestions are the government should make more successful procedure for unskilled women migration to the Middle East, The human rights of housemaids must be protected. Therefore this women migration must be updated by the current circumstances according to the world labour market and responsible to protect social condition of human values. This research should be important for scholars, researchers, undergraduates and people who are engaged with this subject for further observations.
An Analysis of Successes and Failures of the South China Sea Dispute Management.
(1st International Studies Students’ Research Symposium-2017 (ISSRS 2017) ,Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2017) Goonathilake, M.A.N.P.
Southeast Asia is home to a range of complex territorial disputes, but the most intractable and combustible is the South China Sea dispute. Root causes and recent developments of South China Sea dispute seem to be quite complicated. Nonetheless, the level of engagement in the disputes differs from state to state. The main objective of this study is to evaluate the root causes of the conflict; to investigate possible conflict prevention mechanisms; while assessing its successes and failures. The Content analysis method will be used to achieve the said objective empirically by using secondary data based on a review of existing literature on the issue. In doing so, two schools of thoughts i.e. Defensive realist approach and Liberalist- institutionalism have been used. For the convenience of the study, ASEAN’s potential role in South China Sea dispute resolution and the implementation of UNCLOS have been scrupulously investigated. The findings of the study illustrate that dispute is still ongoing since there are no recognized maritime boundaries. It also argues that a security dilemma applies in the region. Despite China’s claims of absolute sovereignty over the islands in the South China Sea, it appears that China’s neighbors are refusing to back down. The ASEAN Way has always served as mechanism for conflict prevention – not conflict resolution, and China’s involvement with ASEAN may help to curb the risk of violence. Findings further suggest that, while UNCLOS is unable to settle the dispute directly, if the countries brought their territorial claims more in line with the convention, there would be a stronger basis of understanding between them. It would also create more opportunities for meaningful negotiation and concessions between them. While international law’s enforcement mechanisms are likely useless in the region, if a united ASEAN positioned itself as a staunch defender of international law against a bully, China would face much greater international pressure to abandon its excessive claims and play by the same rules as everyone else.
Applicability of International Peace Making Models to the Post War Era of Sri Lanka.
(1st International Studies Students’ Research Symposium-2017 (ISSRS 2017) ,Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2017) Ishaq, M.A.M.
This research is based on the Sri Lankan ethnic conflict. Although it is said that there was no ethnic conflict in Sri Lanka it is an obvious fact that there was a long fought civil war in Sri Lanka. This research study finds out the progress of the ongoing peace process in Sri Lanka after its end in 2009 and whether it is well implemented or not and thereby to find out an international peace keeping model for Sri Lankan ethnic conflict which will be a new light reevaluate the conflict. The research objectives of this research are to identify the nature of Sri Lankan peace process, to identify the reasons for its failure and to identify the applicability of international peace keeping models on Sri Lankan peace process. This research is based on descriptive research method. The research assesses the past of the conflict, the current context and future trends. This research analyzes both primary data collected by interviews using semi-structured interview method and a questionnaire method and secondary data. But this research is heavily based on secondary data from internet, journals, books and newspapers. These data have then been analyzed using several theories of international relations, political studies, psychology and social studies. The research has been done in several levels of analysis. First the multi-ethnic nature of Sri Lanka has been taken into account while drawing comparisons from similar countries in the world faced with ethnic conflict and investigating what measure have been taken by them. In this regard, the post-apartheid movements in South Africa, America and the Tunisian National Dialogue Quartet have been evaluated. Secondly, the study explores the presence of nationalist and humanitarian revolutionary factors in Sri Lanka. Thirdly, it has looked into feasible governing models that can keep the peace in Sri Lanka. Finally the research finds out what institutions are suitable to sustain the peace. Based on this multi-level analysis, the study concludes that transformative leadership, peace education, peace journalism, moderate political solution and equal economy can pave the way for lasting peace in Sri Lanka.
Brexit and United Kingdom’s Future.
(1st International Studies Students’ Research Symposium-2017 (ISSRS 2017) ,Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2017) Fernando, U.G.G.
European Union plays an important role in multilateral organizations in the world. UK has taken a decision to leave EU. This is named as Brexit referendum in 2016. United Kingdom leaves EU for several reasons. This research is meant to find the reasons why UK left the EU and to understand its future prospects. The research has been conducted in a qualitative approach by analyzing secondary data found through academic journals, books, research papers and statistics. The analysis of these data shows several realities concerning this issue. Once a year more than 300000 immigrates are coming to UK because of which UK decreased their job opportunities. Also as a member of the EU, UK pays 350£ million every week. The counter campaign believed that it will be more useful to use the money for the sustainability in National Health Service. While UK staying as a member in EU, it should consider about immigration problems, unless immigration percentage will be more in near future. The former Prime Minister was not able to successfully promote the reasons why UK should continue to be with EU which made his policy decisions quite unreliable. In addition the Golden Brown and Sadiq Khan issue spread the situation to a conflict level. Alen Jonson and Jeramy Corbin were not supported by others. Cameron favouring Bremain campaign by Boris Jonson also tarnished his image. The senior citizens population in UK is high with nationalistic opinions and imperialist thoughts. Due to these reasons the UK should stand as a sovereign state and be independent in political and economic aspects. Considering about the Brexit, there are positive impacts like sovereignty, freedom to go outside the common Agricultural Policy and the booming of the fishing industry. There will also be no more contribution to the EU budget. However there are also negative impacts like a hard hit economy after withdrawing from the EU and safety issues.
China’s Foreign Policy toward North Korea: the Nuclear Crisis.
(1st International Studies Students’ Research Symposium-2017 (ISSRS 2017) ,Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2017) Subasinghe, M. C.
The North Korean nuclear issue has become a threat to the security of both Northeast Asia and even the world at large. As China has been widely perceived as North Korea’s “only ally” and the most economic and trading partner, China has long been expected to play a major role in resolving the North Korean nuclear issue. Despite the friendly relations between the two countries, China has adopted a changing policy towards North Korea in the recent years. Therefore, the main objective of this research is to elaborate on the specific policies adopted by China in the past several years, highlighting the steps taken to slow down the North Korean nuclear proliferation. Meanwhile, it is also expected to unveil the age-old relationship between China and North Korea while identifying Chinese strategic interests in North Korea both today and historically. Moreover, the key factors that will determine China’s future policy towards North Korea are also to be analyzed at the end. Secondary data sources like reports, academic journals, books and newspaper articles had been used to collect data and qualitative data analysis had been used for the purpose of data analysis. China had to make changes in its policy in order to counteract North Korea’s increasing nuclear capabilities. Accordingly, China had supported the framework of the Six-Party Talks, imposed economic sanctions, and also had supported the effort to denuclearize North Korea by adopting several UN resolutions as well. Moreover, China’s foreign policy measures towards North Korea emphasize its own determination to safeguard the national interests of China at a large scale. Because of North Korea’s geostrategic location in Northeast Asia, its geopolitical stability is important to maintain border security of China. Unstable North Korea would challenge China’s dominance in the region. Therefore, China’s strategic interests in North Korea have also mattered in implementing new foreign policy measures towards North Korea. In addition, economic cooperation between China and North Korea, China’s nuclear policy and U.S. pressure on China’s policy have become the key determinants of future North Korea – Chinese relations.
China- Sri Lanka Diplomatic Relations: analyzing means and ends of development policies in Sri Lanka.
(1st International Studies Students’ Research Symposium-2017 (ISSRS 2017) ,Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2017) Pushpamali, W.M.V.
China has become the world’s second largest economy. Sri Lanka is a small economy that is ranked as a lower middle income country. China and Sri Lanka have extensive historical links, religious and cultural, economic and also diplomatic. The strategic location of Sri Lanka, with key shipping lanes, ‘String of Pearls’, has significantly enhanced the two countries’ relations in recent years. Sri Lanka’s strategic location has attracted China’s attention recently due to its strategic interests. Diplomatic ties that have lasted for 60 years between the two countries have mutually benefited both countries. The main objective of this article is to investigate the reasons for this relationship. Other specific objectives can be mentioned as to examine whether there are any hidden agenda, to evaluate the impact of the diplomatic relationship between these two countries and to analyze the outcome of this relationship. The analysis is based on secondary data, such as published and unpublished books, journals, research and etc. The method that is used to analyze the data is descriptive analysis. The findings will be redounded to the future researchers. For instance there are so many hidden objectives for giving funds to Sri Lanka. For instance, because China is a rising power funding Sri Lanka will help to increase its power I Asia Based on the analysis although Sri Lanka does not geographically share borders with China, China regards its relationship with Sri Lanka as an important part of its good neighbor policy. Sri Lanka appears to have forged closer relations with China. Sri Lanka welcomed Chinese investment in building a port in Hambantota, arms from China for use in its civil war, to construct Bandaranaike Memorial Conference Hall (BMICH), highways, Lotus tower and “dialogue partner” status in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. The two countries have the consensus to work together for a bright future through the bilateral relationship, which will not only benefit the two peoples but also the whole world.
Convergence of India and China interests and their impact on post conflict Sri Lanka.
(1st International Studies Students’ Research Symposium-2017 (ISSRS 2017) ,Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2017) Karunarathne, M.S.H.U.
Convergence of India-China interests on Sri Lankan context became critical during post conflict period as it provided the platform for these two powerful nations to check and balance their interests. This paper aims at discussing the impact of their interests on post conflict Sri Lanka. The main objective of the study is to determine the imperatives of Sri Lanka’s post conflict period and identify the convergence of Indo-China interests on above context and their impact on Sri Lanka. To achieve aforesaid objectives qualitative approach has been adopted and secondary data is the main type of data obtained from various sources such as books, journal articles, newspapers, government records and other relevant documents available in both printed and electronic versions. Document analysis, theoretical analysis and descriptive analysis are used to analyze data. In document analysis documents are interpreted to give meaning and it collects available data related to the study and interprets them to find out specific issues. Concepts derived from literature review and theoretical analysis help to develop broader understanding on those issues and collect new knowledge. Descriptive analysis has also been used in certain areas to provide comprehensive understanding of collected data. The research findings conclude Chinese influence over the other regions seems inevitable with its rise as a global economic and military power which is perceived as a threat by India. India is also trying to match Chinese rise resulting suspicion and fear psychosis among one another’s achievements. Both are engaged in a competition to achieve goodwill of their neighbors. Sri Lanka has become convergence point for both India and China due to its strategic importance in the Indian Ocean and it was intensified during post conflict period. Both attempted to attract the post conflict reconstruction projects but China impressed more positively on Sri Lankan policy makers since its aid came with no influences for domestic politics. India raised the issue on reconciliation and power devolution and even supported UN resolution against Sri Lanka. Chinese approach was more peaceful and beneficial for Sri Lanka whereas India
Cyber-attacks: The evolving threat landscape in Sri Lanka’s National Security.
(1st International Studies Students’ Research Symposium-2017 (ISSRS 2017) ,Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2017) Perera, W.M.Y.
The 21st century Digital Age where the availability and accessibility of information reaching unprecedented levels has expanded the contexts from which national security challenges can emerge. Sri Lanka being ranked among the top 10 countries in the Asia Pacific impacted by the growing threats to cyber-attacks unveils the vitality to protect its availability of critical infrastructure. Moreover, as a developing nation currently it has a greater possibility of facing an unforeseen vulnerability in cyber-attacks owing to its greater dependence on critical infrastructure, industrial automation and cyber based control systems especially with the adoption of ‘E- Sri Lanka Development’ initiative. Although Sri Lanka claimed its complete territorial sovereignty by eradicating the LTTE terrorists there remains a question whether the country is ready to face emerging threats in the new domain of cyberspace. The objective of this research is to identify the sectors of national security in Sri Lanka that are more prone to cyber-attacks. Moreover, it reviews how the existing law is deficient and what needs to be done to improve network intrusions threatening the National Security. Examining the existing law with globally accepted cyber intrusion analytical models denoted that a comprehensive legal framework is needed to address cyber-attacks. The study is based on qualitative research with the aim of gathering insights on the subject matter including both primary and secondary data. The study found out that, the vulnerability of business and industries to cyber-attacks is increasing and will continue to increase in future, adoption of internet and mobile banking in the banking sector is causing cyber security breaches where banks hardly report for the fear of losing public confidence and inadequate preventive mechanisms and privacy laws to detect cyber-attacks. Sri Lanka’s paradigm shift from eradicating LTTE and securing its physical borders, to cyber space has become the newest national security breach infringing its Political, Economic, Social and Technological spheres.
The “DOKLAM” Border Standoff between Two Asian Giants.
(1st International Studies Students’ Research Symposium-2017 (ISSRS 2017) ,Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2017) Karunarathne, M.S.H.U.
Sino-Indian border disputes have a long history which marked the deterioration of their relations. This particular study is mainly focused on ‘Doklam’ face-off, the most recent confrontation of borderland between China and India. The tension between India and China were again intensified with the ‘Doklam’ face-off and this situation taught unforgettable lessons for both sides. The study will discuss historical background of their border disputes. The main objective is to examine the present situation of the border disputes regarding the ‘Doklam’ face-off and also discusses what types of changes will happen in their future bilateral relations regarding the ‘Doklam’ incident. Furthermore the study will examine the Bhutan factor which is the third party of the ‘Doklam’ face-off. To achieve aforesaid objectives a qualitative approach has been adopted and secondary data is the main type of data obtained from various sources such as books, journal articles, newspapers, government records and other relevant documents available in both printed and electronic versions. Document analysis and theoretical analysis are used to analyze data. In document analysis documents are interpreted to give meaning and it collects available data related to the study and interprets them to find out specific issues. Concepts derived from literature review and theoretical analysis help to develop broader understanding on those issues and collect new knowledge. The research findings conclude that Chinese influence over the other entities seems inevitable with its rise as a global economic and military power which is perceived as a threat by India. India is also trying to match Chinese rise resulting suspicion and fear psychosis among one another’s achievements. Border disputes are considered as one of the main factors which are shaping their bilateral relations. Time to time these disputes have turned their relations into tensions. The Border States and areas, such as Bhutan and ‘Doklam’ have become convergent points for both India and China due to its strategic importance in the border areas. Furthermore, this particular study emphasized the importance of resolute solution for the standoff between India and China.
The Economic Impacts of Labor migration: Case of Sri Lanka.
(1st International Studies Students’ Research Symposium-2017 (ISSRS 2017) ,Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2017) Dinushika, M.G.O.
Sri Lanka is a major labour sending country in Asia, with a high proportion of labour migrants employed as domestic and non-domestic with increasing remittances. Sri Lanka, being a low-middle income country with a total population of 20 million, is currently considered one of the foremost labour sending countries in the Asian region. Despite such financial gains for families and national economy, the left-behind families have limited exploration. The Sri Lankan government faces a dilemma. The major aims of this study to determine the trends, patterns and scale of labor migration and to analyze the impact of migration of skilled workers on economy. Data have been collected from primary and secondary data collection methods in addition to twenty in-depth interviews conducted with participants recruited through purposive sampling. Necessary Information was gathered from relevant books, treaties, scholarly journals, internet, newspaper articles and periodicals. Data was analyzed using content and thematic analyses used in the Neo- Classical Theory, the Situation Oriented Approach (Push-Pull Hypotheses), the World System Theory and the Dual Labour Market Approach. Pre-migration economic situation, economic difficulties and higher earning possibilities abroad were considered to be the major push and pull factors for labour migration. The process of theorization of migration began in the nineteenth century. It has been discussed by sociologists, geographers and economists who have respectively emphasized the social and cultural, the distance and economic factors as the causes of migration. The research explores the findings and suggests some recommendations in maximizing the positive effects and minimizing the negative effect of labour migration on economies. It further argues that there is a need to explore best practice models, which not only support the families of migrant workers but also facilitate regular intimate contact between migrant and family while gaining economic advantages of migration.
The Effect of the Geneva Convention related to the Ethnic Crisis of Sri Lanka.
(1st International Studies Students’ Research Symposium-2017 (ISSRS 2017) ,Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2017) Kumarasinghe, K.A.W.M.
The Geneva issue arises with the western efforts of restoring “human right tactics” to demean Sri Lanka’s success on the international stage against the LTTE. The LTTE was ranked as the most ruthless and dangerous terrorist organization in the world at the time. They fought against Sinhala people. And the Geneva problem is not a simple case for both Sri Lanka’s economic and cultural perspectives. The purpose of this study is to identify the effect of Geneva Convention in relation to the ethnic crisis in Sri Lanka. The Geneva report recommends the investigation of the alleged human right violation in Sri Lanka since 1982. The latest Geneva report on Sri Lanka was released on September 16 in Geneva during its currently ongoing 30th session. But the present report is no different from the controversial Darusman report. In this study I wish to examine what the Geneva Convention is, how it can affect the Sri Lankan perspectives and why it became a blemish for the development process of Sri Lanka in many cases. Here, secondary data have been used which is appropriate to the topic and to conduct a qualitative data analysis. The study shows that according to the present context of the Geneva resolution and its impact on Sri Lanka the government has to agree with the principle of free and fair inquiry in the alleged war crimes. And the most controversial recommendation in the Geneva report is the “hybrid” court of inquiry which raised the doubt of the extent of involvement of the foreign judges and the demarcation of jurisdiction. The research concludes that the main economic impact of Geneva Convention related to the Sri Lankan ethnic crisis will be losing potential opportunities which will affect the tourism and foreign direct investment. And also it could affect Sr Lankan exports to western countries which are main markets for our manufactured exports. Not only that, this problem will also affect Sri Lankan independence and sovereignty as a nation.
Effects of migration of women to Middle East countries: Case of Sri Lanka.
(1st International Studies Students’ Research Symposium-2017 (ISSRS 2017) ,Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2017) Dilhani, R.W.T.
Migration is the movement of people from one place to another place for the purpose of permanent or semi-permanent residences across a political boundary. There are about 214 million estimated international migrants in the world today and among them 49% are women of the global population. More than 60,000 of Sri Lankan women are working in Middle East countries such as Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Jordan, Bahrain and Qatar as housemaids. The purpose of this study is to identify the effects of migration of Sri Lankan women to Middle East countries. The number of Sri Lankan women who are migrating as house maids to Middle East countries was increased after the introduction of open economy system to Sri Lanka in 1977.Therefore,it has both micro and macro level impacts to the development of Sri Lanka in international arena. In this study I wish to examine that what is the women migration, what are the push and pull factors, how it be affected to the Sri Lankan perspectives and why it is became as a severe crisis for the development process of the Sri Lanka. Here, I used secondary data which is appropriate topic and consider qualitative data analysis. The study shows that the current situation of the migration of Sri Lankan women to Middle East countries and its impacts for the Sri Lanka. There are some push and pull factors which are motivate women to migrate as housemaids to Middle East countries. The research concludes that the impacts of migration of women which are related to the Sri Lankan economic, cultural, social and political contexts and the main impact is that, it can break up the family and it will lead to social upheaval without a mother at home. And also it could affect to the image of Sri Lanka and women of Sri Lanka within other countries. In the case of 'Rizana' we realized that how dangerous women migration of Sri Lanka to Middle East countries. However, until today migration of women plays the key role as the main income source in the economy of Sri Lanka.
Examine the Naval Supremacy in the Indian Ocean and its Impact on the Security of Small States: special reference to China and India.
(1st International Studies Students’ Research Symposium-2017 (ISSRS 2017) ,Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2017) Marakawaththa, I. A. G. G.
The expanding economic and political powers of China and India have led each country to extend its naval operations into the other’s region of influence in order to safeguard and national interests. The continued operational expansion of China and India’s naval forces into each other’s claimed maritime domain is likely to trigger alliance formation and a naval arms buildup between the two countries which could lead to conflict in the near future. This study is supported by the evidence of active naval modernization programs initiated by China and India as well as the pursuit of security relations with countries in each other’s respective regions. Conflicting strategic cultures, a history of combative relations, and differences in long term strategic objectives warn of the possibility of a coming confrontation. This may not only be the maritime security climate, but the security of mainland Asia itself and has implication for future US security policy in the region. Research problem was how the competition between China and India for naval supremacy impact on the security of small states in the region. India and China try to subjugate small countries in the Indian Ocean using their naval power. Their power buildup has created an insecure environment in the region. The main objective of this research is to analyze the naval supremacy in the Indian Ocean and its impact on the security of small states. The specific objectives of this research are to examine the naval power buildup between China and India, and to discuss external powers involvement in the Indian Ocean. The research methodology is fundamentally based on secondary data. According to the research findings it could be identified that the expansion of power causes this problem. The study suggests reducing naval supremacy in the Indian Ocean and its impact on the security of small states should balance the power between India and China.
Exporting Power: Opportunities and Challenges for India in Fulfilling Sri Lanka’s Energy Demand.
(1st International Studies Students’ Research Symposium-2017 (ISSRS 2017) ,Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2017) Fernando, A.L.B.
India is actively embracing the potential of becoming the regional powerhouse through energy export. Its neighbor Sri Lanka’s total primary energy demand is expected to increase 4.9 % per annum from 2018-2037. While lower cost is the major concern in supplying energy to the local market, today policy makers also consider environmentally friendly power resources. This demand in the energy sector, with focus on renewable energy, is an opportunity for India, which has shown considerable interest in investing in renewable energy sources in recent years. The purpose of this study is to identify the opportunities and challenges India would confront when venturing into the Sri Lankan energy market. It is a qualitative data analysis conducted using secondary data sources. It analyzed the needs of Sri Lanka’s energy market, the role of India as a net exporter of power, the various energy related investment proposed by India, and the prospects for India to play a significant role in the Sri Lanka’s energy supply. The study shows that India’s proven track record with exporting electricity to neighboring Bangladesh and Nepal is testimony to its ability to fulfill the growing demand for energy in Sri Lanka. By investing in Sri Lanka’s energy market, India will benefit by establishing cross border links with neighboring countries, securing energy requirements of the region, and manifesting herself as an emerging energy player. However, India will also face significant local public displeasure at the growing Indian presence in the island while also unsettling neighbors such as China. Sri Lanka will also be suspicious of the geopolitical connotations lying beneath Indian interests and critical about India’s relentless pursuit of energy projects such as in Sampur in the past. The research concludes that India will find ample opportunity for mutual benefit by trading in energy resources with Sri Lanka. Future studies of this work could deeply analyze the pros and cons of depending on India to fulfill Sri Lanka’s energy needs.
Geopolitics in the Indian Ocean: Importance of Sri Lanka to maintain a non – aligned foreign policy towards India, China and USA.
(1st International Studies Students’ Research Symposium-2017 (ISSRS 2017) ,Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2017) Ranasinghe, S. P.
In the global scenario, Indian Ocean is the ocean where the global superpower USA and emerging global powers, India and China have their keen interest on. This is due to the strategic importance of Indian Ocean in military and economic wise and all these countries want to make a tight relationship with Sri Lanka because of its strategic importance of the location situated at the heart of the Indian Ocean. This study intends to examine how Sri Lanka can peruse a very tactful foreign policy to balance diplomatic relations with all these countries while defending and achieving its economic goals and development. This research is a qualitative study based on secondary data sources relating to Lakshman Kadirgamar Institute Foreign policy forum and also from scholarly articles, books, online journals, and magazines. It is crucial for India to have Sri Lanka by its side due to the growing Chinese influence in the South Asian region. The Indian Prime minister Narendra Modi’s recent visits to Sri Lanka indicate that India wants to keep close ties with Colombo. China’s presence also shows that Sri Lanka has good relations with China and certainly it has become an important investor in Sri Lanka. Major investments such as Hambanthota port and Colombo port city show how strong economic partnerships they maintain with Sri Lanka. On the other side, the USA’s ‘The Nimitz Carrier Strike Group’ recent visit to Colombo, for the first time an aircraft carrier has visited Sri Lanka after 1985 shows their interest on Sri Lanka. It is vital to understand that India, China and USA are three countries with different strengths and weaknesses. Balancing New Delhi, Beijing and Washington should be the priority of Sri Lankan foreign policy. This research shows how Sri Lanka should maintain a non – aligned, balanced foreign policy with equal measures to all the powers and it is the best way for Sri Lanka to balance these powerful countries. Sri Lanka has to understand its capabilities and capacities where, it has to maintain a tactful foreign policy while being in a neutral position and to get the maximum out of the opportunity it has been given.
Identifying the Trends and Hindrances on Indian Desire for Security Council Permanent Membership.
(1st International Studies Students’ Research Symposium-2017 (ISSRS 2017) ,Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2017) Herath, H.M.I.M.
The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is the most authoritative institution of the United Nations and the only legitimate international organization that can pass binding resolutions, impose sanctions and authorize use of force. India is a country which urges to become a major power in the world and India is trying to seek an international confirmation for its status of a major power. Permanent membership of the UN Security Council has traditionally been considered as a key criterion for being counted as a great power. As one of the strong contenders for a permanent seat at the UNSC, India has joined the UN in 1945 but it was not an independent nation till 1947.Since then India dreamed to being a permanent member of the UNSC who possess veto power. As a result of it India had all the credentials to become a permanent member of the UNSC. However it is in many regards unclear as to why is India still not a permanent member of the UNSC? Therefore, this study has been conducted in order to identify the trends and hindrances on Indian desire for Security Council Permanent Membership. The main objectives of the study are determine the eligibility of India for claiming permanent membership in Security Council and identify the trends and hindrances on Indian desire for Security Council Permanent Membership. Finally, the study focus on the possibility of India for attaining permanent membership in UNSC. The methodology that has followed for the study is qualitative in nature while only based on secondary sources of data like books, journal articles, reports, institutional and official document and applied qualitative descriptive analysis. The findings of the study demonstrate that the Indian journey to UNSC permanent membership seems very difficult and it depends on a large number of internal and external factors. However, if India want to represent in UNSC as a permanent member before that India needs to settle the disputes and territorial issues with neighbouring countries particularly Kashmir dispute. After settling disputes at home, path to the permanent membership of the UNSC and global power will be easier.
The Impact of ‘String of Pearls’ Strategy of China on Indo-China Relationship.
(1st International Studies Students’ Research Symposium-2017 (ISSRS 2017) ,Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2017) Aththanayake, A.R.S.S.
India and China are the emerging super powers in the 21st century. From the independence there is an antagonistic relationship between the two states in case of Pakistan and border issues. This hostile situation has been worsening with the Chinese intervention in the Indian Ocean. ‘String of Pearls’ is a Chinese strategy to capture maritime dominance in the world. Indian Ocean Region is one of its prominent attentions. China is investing in the maritime keystones in the region such as Gwadar, Hambantota, Sittwe and Chittagong. As the regional power India is also interested in the maritime hegemony in the region and it has created a competition between the two countries. This study aims to illuminate the impacts of ‘string of pearls’ strategy on Indo-China relationship. Defining the string of pearls strategy, identifying the nature of Sino-India relationship and illustrate the impacts of ‘string of pearls’ on Indo-China relationship were the objectives which motivated the study. Secondary data was collected using qualitative research approach. Mahan model was used to demonstrate the string of pearls strategy and offensive, defensive realism and China-threat theory were applied to interpret Indo-China relationship. The rivalry between India and China in establishing maritime military bases affects Indo-China relationship creating a security dilemma. However it could be able to find out that although the strategy affects security perception of two countries their economic rapprochement is not affected. The security dilemma affects not only India and China but also the other states in the region as well as other super powers. Therefore this study is very important for the decision makers of those countries and the scholars who are studying related areas. It is significant as it fills research gap of researches on ‘string of pearls’ which do not discuss its impacts on Sino-India relationship. The findings offer insights into important international relations theories too. The involvement of international organizations, strengthening international law of sea and reinforcement of economic relationship are some recommendations suggests by the study to solve the issue because the bilateral cooperation between the two countries is essential for international peace and security.
The Impact of Chinese Relations on Sri Lanka's Economy.
(1st International Studies Students’ Research Symposium-2017 (ISSRS 2017) ,Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2017) Amarakoon, A.R.W.M.M.P.B.
Sri Lanka, the China’s Jewel in the Heart of the Indian Ocean has forged closer relations with China during the past few years in its economic, military, and diplomatic relations. Although ancient Sri Lankan and Chinese relations were based on religious and cultural links, replicating the relations between large and lower middle economies, recently, Sri Lanka warmly welcomed the Chinese investments, trade pacts, financial assistance and Foreign Direct Investments to several economic sectors. The two countries take economic development as a priority of their national strategy, while looking for effective links which could maintain their core national interests. The bilateral economic and trade cooperation has a great potential especially after the upcoming signing of the Free Trade Area Agreement with China’s idea of creating the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road. The purpose of the study is to investigate the impacts of economic relationship with China on Sri Lanka’s economy while addressing the opportunities and challenges especially in the spheres of trade and investments. Accordingly, the nature of economic relations and the ability of addressing the current economic challenges faced by Sri Lanka through the extent of the positive and negative impacts of these economic relations are subjected to further analysis. The content analysis method is used to achieve the research objectives through the use of secondary data based on the review of existing literature and analyzing them in an empirical and theoretical perspective. The impacts of Chinese relations to Sri Lanka’s economy will be systematically analyzed in both positive and negative perspectives through revenues and profits gained from exports, imports and tourism industry and also the rates of wages and labour utilization of the Chinese investment projects. The implementation of Chinese soft power strategy unveiled that these investments and financial assistance lead to future debts and higher budget deficits along with the less export revenue and high unemployment rates in local labour market. In contrast, the development of infrastructure increasing revenues in tourism industry is exemplified. Hence, this study insists the significance of having an insight on strengths, weaknesses and the influences for the current decision making process of the country in relation to the economy.
The Impacts of Economic Development by Multinational Corporations on Developing Countries.
(1st International Studies Students’ Research Symposium-2017 (ISSRS 2017) ,Department of International Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2017) Mallawaarachchi, R.P.
In today’s global economy Multinational Corporations (MNCs) are playing an important role especially in emerging markets. The simplest definition of a multinational corporation is an enterprise which possesses at least one unit of production in a foreign country .These Transnational Companies are referred to as “big business” and “engine of economic growth” where social welfare or human right concerns are purposely ignored. MNCs are subjected to changes in international exchange rates, tariffs, duties, and restrictions on trade. Previous research has identified the impact of MNCs on the economic situation of developing countries. Especially on the basis of Solow model, the positive effect on economic growth of all tested samples has been identified, but the economic growth in very poor countries tends to be less affected by the presence of Foreign Direct Investment than in middle income economies. The economic role of MNCs is simply to channel physical and financial capital to countries with capital shortages. By improving the efficiency of capital flows, MNCs reduce world poverty levels and provide a positive externality that is consistent with the United Nations’ (UN) mission. This is critically important for emerging markets as the sole purpose of their policy framework is to achieve increased levels of economic development for their county. The research has gathered secondary data through reports, books, online magazines, online videos and journal articles which have been analyzed using the case study method to express the researcher’s opinions on the given incidents. Therefore signifies the role of developing states’ policies towards MNCs and has suggested suitable recommendations for the review of policy changes. The findings from the case studies of Coca-Cola in India, Shell in Nigeria, Uniliver in Pakistan and Nike in Indonesia highlight the MNCs’ involvements into the internal situations in developing countries and how MNCs discourage the development of developing countries in present.