Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya emphasized that childcare should not be viewed solely as a women’s issue, but as a broader economic and policy concern. She stated that supporting women in balancing work and caregiving is not only fair but also vital for national economic growth.
Speaking at a World Bank Group roundtable titled “Childcare as an Enabler of Women’s Increased Economic Participation in Sri Lanka,” held on June 17 at Cinnamon Life Hotel in Colombo, the Prime Minister highlighted that women are key contributors to the economy through both paid and unpaid labour.
She noted that while women’s labour force participation in Sri Lanka is just 32%—compared to 74% for men—this figure does not reflect the full extent of their economic contributions, especially in unpaid caregiving roles.
Dr. Amarasuriya pointed out that closing the gender gap could boost Sri Lanka’s GDP by up to 20%, making gender equity not only a social objective but a strategic economic imperative.
She outlined several government initiatives aimed at improving childcare access, such as Early Childhood Development (ECD) programs under the Ministry of Women and Child Affairs, tax incentives for businesses offering child protection services, and financial support for working families.
The Prime Minister also stressed the importance of public-private partnerships in expanding and improving childcare services, and acknowledged the World Bank’s ongoing support in this area.
The event was attended by key officials including K.D.R. Olga, Secretary to the Ministry of Women and Child Affairs; Gevorg Sargsyan, World Bank Country Manager for Sri Lanka; as well as representatives from government, the private sector, civil society, and the World Bank Group.
