Policy Dialogues on Development Democracy Peace in the Eastern Province.

The Project (Aims)

The purpose of the project is to facilitate Civic Participation in public affairs in the Eastern Province and to empower the stakeholders through a series of dialogues, awareness building and training programmes in order to effectively hold the policy makers and local government authorities accountable for the human development of the area.

The policy dialogues would address and monitor three key areas that is imperative for sustainable growth and progress in the Eastern Province- Democracy, Security and infrastructure Development.

Why is it important to conduct Policy Dialogues at this point of time?

The political and administrative conditions in the Eastern Province have changed along with Provincial Council Elections and the restoration of civilian administration. This has created the political space and the opportunity for the people of the Eastern province to participate more actively in the governance of the Province.

For democracy to be effective there has to be sustained and constructive interaction between the people and those who hold power, make policies and take the key decisions that affect people’s lives.

A healthy democracy always provides the means for dialogue and interaction of this nature enabling citizens to participate in the processes of governance, monitor and evaluate the developments and changes that are taking place and ensure the accountability of those who hold power.

These processes are specially needed in the Eastern Province in its present state of transition from violent conflict to democracy and peace.

Activities completed

In the first phase three District Dialogues and a capacity building workshop was conducted. A District and Provincial Policy Dialogue was also conducted.

Future activities

In the second phase another round of four similar dialogues will be held to review the issues dealt with in the first round and progress made.

The Key Stake Holders of Eastern Province Policy Dialogue Project.

representatives of civil society organizations and concerned citizens from among retired public servants, academics of the two Universities and other professionals.
religious leaders.
senior public officials.
representatives of political parties.
business community.

The participants also include a panel of civil society activists and leaders at the national level who will act as facilitators at the dialogues. The participation of the panel is designed to promote civic support and solidarity for the initiatives taken in the Eastern Province.

Marga Avakashaya

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