Compiled by Nicola Jayasundera

CHALLENGING STEREOTYPES

Amaya Ranatunge calls for social change to build a nation that’s united

Q: What’s the good, the bad and the ugly in Sri Lanka today?

A: The best thing about Sri Lanka is that it is enriched with valuable natural resources, and has a talented and skilled population. Unfortunately, the country hasn’t developed as it should have due to failed governance and corruption, which continue to thrive because of a serious lack of transparency and accountability.

Q: And what are the other challenges facing our nation at this time?

A: In addition to its economic woes, Sri Lanka continues to be plagued by many social issues such as racism, misogyny, Islamophobia and homophobia – all of which are influenced by stereotypical thinking.

Sri Lankans need to shed their narrow mindset, which is the result of repressive traditions, and see the light of modernity and equality. This is the toughest challenge that our country continues to face.

Q: Do you believe that all Sri Lankans will be united one day? And if so, how and why?

A: While unity is certainly a possibility, it will depend on the actions that we take as the next generation. We need to move away from judgemental social standards, and create a society where diversity is accepted, empowered and treated equally.

Only then will we be able to pave the way to a united future.

Yet, ignorance of this fact and an unwillingness to change will see Sri Lanka continuing to be a stagnant and divided nation. Only the actions of youth leaders can bring about future unity, which will otherwise be an unachievable dream.

Q: Where do you see yourself in 10 years’ time?

A: As an enthusiastic feminist, I prefer to work in the field of humanitarian law, specifically focussing on women’s rights. This will provide me with the perfect opportunity to promote the empowerment of women in Sri Lanka in an era where misogyny continues to exist in spite of modernism.

In addition to being a legal professional, I would like to engage in feminist journalism as a much desired side interest.

Capitalistic trends and the love of wealth over nature have made profit oriented countries, corporates and individuals indifferent to the need to protect the planet

Q: And where do you see Sri Lanka in a decade or so from today?

A: With the growing and active participation of youth in social and national affairs, it will be possible for Sri Lanka to become a developed nation that’s united, upholds equality and promotes sustainability.

This means that youth will need to work hard, and utilise modern platforms and technology. However, there’s no certainty about tomorrow as only today’s actions will have the power to determine tomorrow’s outcomes.

Q: Who is responsible for climate change and global warming, in your view – and what must be done about these issues?

A: The first brick for climate change and global warming was laid by developed nations due to industrialisation. But today, it’s the developing countries that are contributing more to climate change.

Capitalistic trends and the love of wealth over nature have made profit oriented countries, corporates and individuals indifferent to the need to protect the planet.

Though modernisation is an agent of pollution, it can also be part of the solution – by promoting sustainable and eco-friendly technologies, which can regulate and slow the rate of global warm­ing. These technologies should be promoted along with monetary, infrastructural and technological aid, which must be provided through international cooperation.

Q: How do you view the growing importance of social media today?

A: It is often viewed in a negative light due to the possibility of cybercrimes and privacy invasions. However, social media is a valuable tool that can be used to shape society for the better through information and discussion.

Digital activism, which was seen in movements such as #BlackLivesMatter and #MeToo, has led to many radical changes in society. It’s clear that even though social media runs the risk of misuse, it can be an agent of positive change in this digital era… through careful use.

Q: And finally, where do you see the world in 10 years’ time?

A: The world has been improving in the social, technological, humanitarian, political and economic spheres even after facing the fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Significant improvements have been seen due to the active involvement of youth leaders at a global level as they strive to create a world that’s united, equitable and humane.