In March 2022, Sri Lanka faced an unprecedented economic crisis, which was marked by soaring inflation, chronic shortages of essential commodities like food, fuel, and medicine, and a significant depreciation of the national currency. This dire situation pushed citizens to protest against the government’s inability to manage the economy effectively. Protests began in the capital, Colombo, and quickly spread across the nation, with citizens demanding the resignation of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and his administration. The anger was exacerbated by allegations of mismanagement and corruption within the government, which had led to a governance crisis that left many Sri Lankans struggling for basic necessities.

As demonstrations intensified, the protests adopted a peaceful yet confrontational tone, with thousands gathering in critical infrastructures like roads and public squares. The protesters emphasized their demand for transparency and accountability, showcasing their determination to foster political change. The campaign also involved various civil society groups, youth leaders, and opposition parties, uniting multiple segments of society against the prevailing economic turmoil. Social media played a crucial role in rallying support and organizing peaceful assemblies, further amplifying the cries for help from an economically distressed populace.

The situation escalated with a heavy police presence in areas of protest, leading to confrontations but also widespread solidarity among demonstrators. Collectively, they voiced their disdain for policies believed to favor elite interests while neglecting the urgent needs of average citizens. The protests reflected a fertile ground for larger questions about governance, economic policy, and democratic rights in Sri Lanka, signaling a shift in political engagement from apathy to active resistance among the citizenry.