Sri Lanka in 2025 — A Year in Review (Timeline) – by eLanka
JAN–MAR | Stabilisation & Adjustment
Economy
Inflation continues to ease compared with crisis years
Currency remains broadly stable
Supply shortages largely disappear
Tax reforms and subsidy rationalisation remain politically sensitive
Politics & Governance
Focus on institutional and fiscal reform
Smaller but persistent public protests over cost-of-living pressures
Civil society pushes for transparency and anti-corruption measures
Religion & Society
New Year religious observances reflect cautious optimism
Temples and churches report increased charitable activity
APR–JUN | Recovery with Uneven Impact
Economy
Tourism arrivals strengthen across Colombo, south coast, and hill country
Export performance mixed amid global uncertainty
State-owned enterprise reform sparks trade-union resistance
Politics
Reform fatigue becomes a key public theme
Government emphasises “stability over populism”
Sport
Domestic cricket tournaments regain momentum
Women’s cricket draws growing public attention
Religion
Vesak & Poson marked by large crowds and nationwide almsgiving
Interfaith messages stress unity and compassion
JUL–SEP | Confidence, Caution, and Youth Voices
Economy
Tourism becomes a key source of foreign exchange
Small and medium enterprises begin cautious expansion
Politics & Society
Youth activism shifts toward employment, technology, and entrepreneurship
Public debate focuses on whether reforms deliver real household relief
Sport
National cricket teams deliver competitive performances
School and club sports see renewed participation
Religion
Esala Perahera and major festivals proceed with strong attendance
Faith institutions increasingly support community welfare programs
OCT–NOV | Strain Beneath Stability
Economy
Household cost pressures remain high
Concerns emerge over climate risks to agriculture
Politics
Disaster preparedness and climate resilience gain prominence in policy debates
Religion
Deepavali celebrated amid calls for social harmony
Mosques and temples begin early flood-response planning in vulnerable regions
DEC | Floods Redefine the Year
Climate & Disaster
Severe flooding and landslides displace tens of thousands
Homes, crops, and transport infrastructure suffer heavy damage
Economic recovery momentum disrupted
National Response
Religious institutions serve as shelters and aid centres
Civil society and volunteers mobilise nationwide
International
Foreign partners provide emergency assistance
Calls intensify for climate adaptation funding and debt relief flexibility
2025 IN SUMMARY
🟢 Economy: Stabilising, but socially strained
🟡 Politics: Reform-driven, cautious, contested
🔵 Sport: Cricket remains a unifying force
🟣 Religion: Anchor of continuity, compassion, and crisis response
🔴 Climate: December floods expose ongoing vulnerability
Key Takeaway
2025 was not the year Sri Lanka arrived — it was the year it endured, adjusted, and was tested again.
