📈 Remittances Hit Record Highs as Calls Grow for Structural Migrant Reforms

• Overall Performance: Workers’ remittances to Sri Lanka remain a vital economic backbone, contributing an estimated US$ 6.5–8.0 Bn annually, which accounts for roughly 8–10% of the national GDP. Over the last two decades, migrant labor has infused more than US$ 100.0 Bn into the domestic economy. • Recent Inflows & Growth: April 2026: Inflows reached US$ 767.9 Mn, marking an 18.9% YoY increase compared to April 2025. May 2026: Remittances surged further to US$ 847.0 Mn—a sharp 36.2% YoY increase and the highest monthly inflow recorded since December 2025. Resilience: These records were achieved despite ongoing geopolitical tensions and conflicts across the Middle East, which remains the primary employment destination for Sri Lankan workers. • Policy and Advocacy Proposals: Following International Day of Family Remittances (June 16), the Voice of Migrants (VOM) Network submitted a memorandum for Budget 2027 urging a policy shift from basic welfare to economic empowerment. Key structural demands include: Migrant representation in governance bodies like the SLBFE. Specialized support frameworks for left-behind families and children. Financial mechanisms to channel consumption-driven funds into productive SME investments and savings schemes. Implementation of overseas voting mechanisms to eliminate democratic exclusion.