WB Urges Stronger Data & Verification for Aswesuma Program 📈

The World Bank (WB) has stressed the critical need for maintaining an accurate, up-to-date data system to correctly identify eligible beneficiaries for the Aswesuma Social Security Program. • Key WB Recommendations: • Inclusion in the database alone does not qualify citizens; data must be verified and analysed to accurately determine eligibility. • Establishing a comprehensive system is a "productive investment" for the country, requiring continuous updates. • The WB is ready to provide technical assistance and international expertise to strengthen the system. • Local Implementation Issues: • Members of Parliament suggested selecting beneficiaries through local committees and publicly displaying the list in villages to ensure transparency. • Officials noted initial challenges stemmed from inadequate information provided to implementing officers (Divisional Secretaries, Grama Niladhari), but steps are being taken to address this. • Economic Context: • WB reiterated that Sri Lanka's economy is still below 2018 levels. • Poverty, while expected to decline, remains twice as high as pre-crisis 2019 levels, with approximately 22% of the population currently below the poverty line.