A new EU-backed survey reveals a major shift in Sri Lankan voter behavior, dynastic politics is out, and competence is in. With 92.9% demanding solutions to the economic crisis and over 85% prioritizing education and anti-corruption, Sri Lanka’s electorate signals a dramatic call for political transformation.
Dynastic politics, once a dominant force in Sri Lanka and South Asia, appears to be losing its grip on the electorate. According to a recent survey funded by the European Union, Sri Lankan voters are no longer swayed by political lineage, instead favoring qualifications, competence, and strong leadership credentials.
The research was conducted under the “Active Citizens for Elections and Democracy” initiative, a collaborative project led by the National Peace Council (NPC), in partnership with PAFFREL (People’s Action for Free and Fair Elections), the Association of War Affected Women (AWAW), the Centre for Communication Training (CCT), and Women and Democracy (W&D) in the Maldives. The project seeks to strengthen democratic participation in Sri Lanka and the Maldives.
A standout finding from the survey revealed that 86 percent of respondents preferred candidates with strong educational backgrounds, a signal that voters are turning away from family-based political legacies toward more qualified leadership.
The report also noted the lasting impact of the 2022 Aragalaya protests, which appear to have sparked political awareness and civic engagement. Fifty-three percent of respondents believed the protests positively influenced Sri Lanka’s political direction, while only 13 percent viewed them negatively.
However, the survey identified a gap in political engagement between genders. While 37 percent of men expressed high interest in politics, only 17 percent of women reported the same, highlighting the need for more inclusive political participation.
On political literacy, 83 percent of respondents considered themselves capable of making informed decisions at the ballot box. However, 12 percent admitted to being influenced by family, religious leaders, or media narratives instead of personal judgment.
One of the most telling aspects of the study was the declining power of patronage-based politics. Nearly half of all respondents rejected traditional tactics like vote-buying, job promises, and food aid distributions. Instead, voters emphasized the need for policy-based governance and long-term solutions.
Economic concerns remain paramount. A staggering 92.9 percent of those surveyed said resolving the economic crisis was their top priority in choosing a candidate. Additionally, 83.3 percent stressed the importance of anti-corruption measures, while 85.6 percent valued candidates’ educational qualifications.
In summary, the findings point to an electorate that is not only politically aware but is also increasingly rejecting outdated political norms. There is growing support for systemic change, accountability, and merit-based leadership, signaling a new chapter in Sri Lanka’s democratic journey.
