Under NPC’s Plural Action for Inclusion, Reconciliation and Social Justice (PAIRS) project supported by Misereor and CAFOD, several activities were conducted to strengthen democratic processes and civic space.
In collaboration with PAFFREL, NPC mobilised 16 District Inter Religious Committees (DIRCs) to participate in the monitoring of local government elections across the country. This initiative, rooted in the PAIRS project’s commitment to accountability and inclusive governance, covered 16 districts. DIRC members and representatives from a partner organization contributed to a transparent, peaceful and credible electoral process. This effort not only empowered grassroots interfaith leaders to engage in democratic practices but also fostered public trust in the electoral system through community driven monitoring.
Further strengthening grassroots civic engagement, NPC organized a DIRC meeting at the Anuradhapura Muslim Jummah Mosque where DIRC members participated in a dialogue linking human rights, law and peace with a special session led by Mr. C. Ranasinghe, Officer in Charge of the North Central Province. The session titled Law and Peace: The Role of the Sri Lanka Police provided insights into law enforcement's role in protecting civic space and promoting peaceful coexistence. In a show of interfaith harmony, the meeting concluded with DIRC members joining in prayer at the mosque.
A facilitation meeting for civil society leaders was held in the Anuradhapura District organized by NPC and the Anuradhapura District Citizen Committee. Thirteen issues affecting the district were identified with the protection of civic space and promotion of pluralism chosen as the top priority. The meeting laid the groundwork for a planned collective action initiative with participation from religious leaders, government officials, youth, media and women leaders.
NPC, in partnership with the Sahana Social Development Alliance Galle, hosted a facilitation meeting for civil society leaders in the Galle District. The session served as a dynamic platform for dialogue, reflection and collaborative planning. Participants identified key issues affecting civic participation and laid the groundwork for a community-led action initiative. Similar meetings were also conducted in Matara, Ratnapura, Kandy, Monaragala, Badulla and Puttalam.
In Puttalam NPC in collaboration with WODEPT conducted a consultation meeting for civil society organizations. Eleven key issues were identified and the group planned a joint activity to address the prioritised issue.
The activities carried out under the PAIRS project exemplify the power of inclusive partnerships, grassroots leadership and inter-ethnic solidarity in advancing democratic governance. From election monitoring to multi-stakeholder civic planning, the initiatives reflect a growing network of peacebuilders and civic actors committed to protecting democratic values.
As these local actions unfold into tangible outcomes, the project continues to serve as an inspiration for collaborative peacebuilding, ensuring that every voice is heard and every community is represented in shaping a just and inclusive future.