Samadeepa Samaja Kendraya

Through two national networks of community based and non-governmental organisations, Samadeepa have been working towards positive conflict transformation in Sri Lanka. Their efforts have been focused on the promotion of peace and good governance, the strengthening of civil society, and the empowerment of the nation's people.

Overview

Samadeepa Samaja Kendraya is a registered Non-Governmental Organization incorporated by Act No. 23 of 1992 by the Parliament of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka. It was formally established in 1980 as a voluntary social services organisation responding to two major calamities prevailing at the time, namely drought as a natural disaster and ethnic conflict as a man-made disaster.

Its origin can be traced to Jaffna Secretariat Buddhist Association, which published a magazine named “Samadeep” in 1973 aimed at promoting inter-racial harmony and inter-religious understanding. The term ‘Samadeepa’ has two meanings: on one hand it means ‘Light of Peace’, and on the other it means ‘Land of Peace’. Therefore, it defines itself as an organisation that brings light of peace for a land of peace.

From its initiation, Samadeepa had the two objectives of unity and development. Gradually, along with the growth of the organisation, unity was defined as peace and social justice, whilst development was interpreted as poverty alleviation. Therefore, at present its objectives are to conduct activities that safeguard peace and social justice and contribute to poverty alleviation.

Since its initiation, Samadeepa has become a network of community-based organisations (CBOs), and non-governmental organisations (NGOs), working from village level to national level, and holding membership in two international groupings. In the present context, it is working for peace and good governance, strengthening the civil society, and empowering the people, through two CBO/NGO networks working at the national level.

In the national networks, Samadeepa has brought together the four main religious groups in Sri Lanka and established a location as a spiritual base for all the religions. This is intended to be a place where all religions are treated equally and discussions are conducted with the contribution of all religions. This is a major achievement in the perspective of the ethno-religious divisions in the country.

As an organisation, Samadeepa has learnt that cultural traditions and roots are extremely important in all peace building and social harmony endeavours. The activities conducted by organisations have more potential to be successful if they draw from and respect the cultural roots of the relevant group of people.

What Services Are Provided?

Training and advocacy

Geographical Area of Operation

Sri Lanka - All provinces

Funding Resources

OXFAM - Hong Kong

What Further Information Would You Like?

Information on funding sources, experience sharing programmes, and volunteer exchanges.

What New Contacts Would You Like To Make?

Contacts with organisations, programmes and individuals who would like to work in partnership with us.

Associated Organisations

International Council on Social Welfare (ICSW), World Association for NGOs (WANGO).