## 🌍 PM Harini Amarasuriya Delivers Flagship Lecture at Oxford University

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya addressed the 2026 Oxford School of Global and Area Studies (OSGA) Annual Lecture at St Antony’s College, University of Oxford, delivering a address titled “The Politics of Development: Sri Lanka and Beyond.” • Development & Governance Framework: Emphasized that development must transcend mere economic models and statistics, focusing instead on the lived experiences of citizens. Highlighted the challenge of balancing policy ideals with practical realities in nations navigating economic recovery, institutional challenges, and systemic inequalities. • Gender & Social Policy: Spoke extensively on improving women's political participation and leadership. Critically highlighted the need to recognize both paid and unpaid care work, noting that women's contributions to the national economy often remain invisible in traditional economic systems. • Institutional Reform: Stressed that development priorities must remain grounded in local realities and accountable to the public. Noted that translating grassroots activism into long-term policy reform requires sustained public engagement and institutional independence.