Evidence for a region in motion.
Independent research and dialogue, driving equitable policy across South Asia.
Building a Free, fair
and enlightened world
The South Asia Policy and Research Institute (SAPRI) is a non-profit, non-partisan think tank based in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Founded in 2010 under the patronage of former President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga, SAPRI was established with a mandate to promote inclusive policy development, democratic governance, and sustainable peace in Sri Lanka and the wider South Asian region. SAPRI currently undertakes projects focused on youth empowerment, fostering leadership, civic engagement, and opportunities for young people across the region.
Impact
projects implemented in 2024
countries and territories where UNOPS delivered projects in 2024
of UNOPS project work delivered in special or fragile situations
worth of projects delivered in Small Island Developing States
worth of projects delivered in landlocked developing countries
Driving Change Through Research, Policy and Action
Economic Development and Poverty Alleviation
Women Empowerment
Good Governance
Environmental Protection & Climate Change
Across nine provinces,
and the wider region.
Across Sri Lanka, SAPRI's researchers and partners bring policy to where it matters most. Click on a district to discover our past and active projects.
Colombo District
Active Projects
Local Partners
Turning vision into reality
SDG goals
SAPRI's work across research, policy and community programmes is most closely aligned with No Poverty (SDG 1), Quality Education (SDG 4), Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8), and Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure (SDG 9). Beyond these, SAPRI's work also aligns with Zero Hunger (SDG 2), Gender Equality (SDG 5), Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10), Climate Action (SDG 13), and Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions (SDG 16).
Blogs
Empowerment of Women
SAPRI's work across research, policy and community programmes is most closely aligned with No Poverty (SDG 1), Quality Education (SDG 4), Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8), and Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure (SDG 9).
Melanie Shakya
Building Religious Harmony
SAPRI's work across research, policy and community programmes is most closely aligned with No Poverty (SDG 1), Quality Education (SDG 4), Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8), and Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure (SDG 9).
Melanie Shakya