2009 Annual Report

Sri Lanka

American Center for International Labor Solidarity
$110,000
To support Sri Lankan trade unions' efforts to organize and defend the interests of workers in the country's Export Processing Zones (EPZs) and Industrial Parks (IPs) through training, worker education, counseling, leadership development, and education on the role of unions in society as well as ILO core labor standards. The goal will be to strengthen the unions through organizing new members and securing rights through enforcement of the labor law.

Association of War Affected Women (AWAW)
$73,450
To build the capacity of women leaders to advocate on behalf of their communities, hold elected officials accountable, and promote good governance. The Association of War Affected Women will conduct trainings in advocacy, campaigning, and governance to empower women to play a more effective role in politics and civil society. AWAW will also encourage participants to take a leading role in local politics, including running for elected office.

Center for International Private Enterprise (CIPE)
$130,883
To raise awareness about democratic and economic reforms. CIPE will partner with the Pathfinder Foundation’s Legislative Advisory Service to analyze pressing economic concerns and study the impact of policy changes on the economy. The Pathfinder Foundation will also hold a series of town meetings to facilitate open and informed debate and publish reports on key national issues in the three major Sri Lankan languages.

Janawaboda Kendraya
$20,000
To raise awareness and create opportunities for citizens to become engaged in the political process at the local level in Sri Lanka. Janawaboda Kendraya will launch a public education effort in four districts that incorporates street theater and moderated discussion groups in an effort to engage local stakeholders and officials in the political life of their community.

Transparency International Sri Lanka (TISL)
$40,000
To enhance government accountability and to increase community participation in local governance in Kurunegala District. Transparency International Sri Lanka (TISL) will conduct a multi-faceted program, including surveys, meetings, and capacity-building workshops to encourage greater community participation in local governance and to ensure transparency and accountability in government budgeting and services

Viluthu
$40,000
To raise awareness, promote freedom of expression, and empower citizens living in Sri Lanka to protect their rights. Viluthu will organize a series of study circles to raise awareness of social, economic, and cultural rights; provide a venue for discussion; and empower participants to take action on issues of concern.