Pathfinder Foundation

Promoting Dialogue on Historical Perspectives.

The Pathfinder Foundation (PF) has embarked upon yet another pioneering effort to facilitate reconciliation among major ethnic groups in Sri Lanka, through commissioning research on and sharing historical memories. After the initial stakeholder consultation held in July 11’ four broad areas were identified for detailed research and analysis:

1. Peopling of Sri Lanka: Focusing on the diverse origins of Sri Lankans.
2. State Building: The history of Sri Lanka’s state formation.
3. School Curricula: The role of education in forging a harmonious multi-ethnic society and a shared Sri Lankan identity.
4. The War: Shared Experiences and Suffering.

Working Groups (WGs) are being constituted to undertake rigorous research on each of these areas. They will comprise mainly historians, with inputs from economists and sociologists.

Subsequently, the first research group was formed and commissioned to undertake a study on State Building. Members of the research group have developed detailed outlines of the study at a recent brainstorming session. It will address: (i) Pre-Colonial; (ii) Colonial and (iii) Post-Colonial, state building projects as perceived by the major ethnic communities.

Columbia University is collaborating with the PF and will mainly provide the international experience in dealing with post-conflict reconciliation, particularly developing strategies based on historical memories.

A Columbia University representative met with the PF, as well as members of the WG & Steering group this week to discuss the research study and share international experiences and expertise. PF intends to constitute WGs to address the other areas identified for research and analysis soon.