TCECA's Area of Focus for Lasting Change
Empowering the Tamil communities in the northern and eastern Sri Lanka who have been affected by the war is an important step towards building a more inclusive and prosperous Tamil society. There are several key areas where efforts can be focused to help these communities move forward
Challenges of Access to Essential Services in War-Affected Tamil Communities
Tamil communities in war-affected areas often lack access to basic services such as healthcare, education, clean water & sanitation facilities. Limited infrastructure development, coupled with the ongoing socio-economic challenges, creates barriers to accessing essential services, thereby hindering their overall development and well-being.
Impact of Economic Crisis on War-Shattered Tamil Children and Families in Sri Lanka
The ongoing economic crisis in Sri Lanka has disproportionately affected war-shattered Tamil children and their families. The high inflation rates, rising unemployment, and reduced income opportunities have led to increased poverty levels. Many families struggle to meet basic needs, including food, healthcare, and education.
Addressing Mental Health Issues in Post-War Tamil Communities
The war has left a profound impact on the mental health & well-being of the Tamil communities. Many children & adults, continue to suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression & other psychological issues. Lack of accessible mental health services further exacerbates the problem.
Barriers to Quality Education for Tamil Children in Conflict-Affected Areas
Tamil children in Sri Lanka often face barriers to accessing quality education. Many schools in the conflict-affected areas lack proper infrastructure, trained teachers, and educational resources. The disruption caused by the war has resulted in gaps in their education, limiting their future prospects and opportunities.
Gender-Based Violence and its Impact on War-Shattered Tamil Women
War-shattered Tamil women in Sri Lanka continue to face significant challenges related to gender-based violence, including domestic violence, sexual harassment, and assault. Limited access to justice, inadequate support systems, and cultural barriers often prevent women from seeking help and protection.
Struggles of Displacement: Housing Insecurity in Tamil Communities
Many Tamil communities in Sri Lanka are still grappling with the issue of displacement due to the long-standing civil war. They face difficulties in returning to their original homes or finding suitable housing options, leading to housing insecurity and inadequate living conditions.
It’s important to also consider and include the perspectives and participation of the affected communities in developing and implementing any programs or initiatives. This will help to ensure that these efforts are tailored to the specific needs and realities of Tamil communities and are more likely to be effective in the long term.