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Research Journal of the University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka- Rohana 12, 2020

have looked into their traditional practices to establish culturally sensitive
procedures. Some others have preferred to transplant foreign models. Furthermore,

there are alternative measures such as truth commissions which are more likely to
deal with the victim's experience.

It can be stated that Sri Lanka has opted to embrace different ways to deal with the

past. Interestingly, 'reconciliation' is the catchword used in the public debates in
post-war Sri Lanka.

However, it has implemented several activities for the post-war reconciliation such
as development projects and implementing recommendations of the Lesson Learnt

and Reconciliation Commission. The policymakers, leaders of civil organizations,
intellectuals and diplomats often refer to the process of reconciliation between the

different ethnic groups that constitute Sri Lanka (Rambukwella, 2012). The

reconciliation is not an easy endeavour. It requires a reflection of the past, which is a
painful process, yet it contributes to the construction of sustainable peace. It is a

process that needs to be initiated simultaneously both at individual and community
levels. It becomes meaningful if the process replaces Fear by non-violent

coexistence facilitating building confidence and trust. It leads towards empathy
(Bloomfield et al., 2003, p. 20).

Sri Lanka entered to that space with the military victory over its main rival in 2009.

As Sri Lanka is in the phase of transitional justice, Sri Lanka's necessity of looking

into strategies for easing the historical tension which is highlighted by many
(Tambiah, 1997). The government-backed strategies of dancing to the tune of

majoritarian politics will be resisted by the minorities allowing the politically

sponsored remembrance projects by the political entrepreneurs (ibid). The post-war
governments in Sri Lanka have adopted different strategies in the sphere of

reconciliation. It was observed that some had adopted different attitudes toward
reconciliation (Bastian, 2003). It can be observed there lacks a concern on the

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