A memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at further strengthening cooperation between the Parliament and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) was recently signed.

This MoU is expected to further strengthen the legislative process, enhance the institutional capacity of the Parliament, and elevate cooperation between the two parties in policymaking related to population and social development. Accordingly, the two parties will collaborate across several areas, including providing technical assistance for evidence-based legislative decision-making on demographic resilience, sexual and reproductive health (SRH) and rights, gender equality, gender-based violence, and harmful social practices. The cooperation will also include the provision of analytical information to the Parliament based on the latest census data and population research. Furthermore, the MoU facilitates the organisation of knowledge-sharing programmes and high-level dialogues involving Parliamentarians, Government officials, subject experts, and other stakeholders, the provision of evidence-based briefings and advisory reports to MPs, and the conduct of training programmes, workshops, and exchange sessions. In addition, the UNFPA has agreed to support efforts to brief MPs on international policy frameworks, inter-Governmental processes, and Sri Lanka’s international commitments related to population dynamics, SRH and rights, and gender equality.

During the discussion, the Speaker of the Parliament Dr Jagath Wickramaratne emphasised the need for an in-depth analysis of the country’s current economic situation and demographic challenges. He highlighted the imbalance between the career aspirations of youth and family life, the declining birth rate, and disparities in social care services as issues that must be addressed at the policy level. He also stressed the importance of long-term policy guidance on demographic dynamics and social development. The discussion further focused on the challenges faced by working women and the importance of strong social policies for child care, managing the demographic transition, achieving the work-life balance, and ensuring the needs of future generations. It also highlighted the need for coordinated action among the Government, the Parliament, and other stakeholders.