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G08: Civil Wars around the world: Sri Lanka

A guide to major (non USA) Civil Wars in Modern history

Overview Sri Lanka

The Sri Lankan Civil War was a conflict that lasted for over 25 years, from 1983 to 2009, and was shaped by complex power dynamics related to ethnicity, religion, and political power.

The conflict was fought between the Sri Lankan government, which is dominated by the majority Sinhalese community, and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), a separatist group seeking an independent state for the Tamil minority. The power dynamics were influenced by historical grievances, as well as broader geopolitical factors, including India's role in supporting the LTTE.

The conflict was marked by brutal tactics on both sides, including suicide bombings, assassinations, and ethnic cleansing. The LTTE also had a significant presence in the Tamil diaspora, using their support to raise funds and engage in propaganda campaigns.

The conflict ended in 2009, with the Sri Lankan government achieving a military victory over the LTTE. However, the conflict had a lasting impact on Sri Lankan society, with deep-seated divisions remaining between different ethnic and religious groups. The government has faced ongoing criticism for alleged war crimes committed during the conflict, including the use of chemical weapons and extrajudicial killings.

The legacy of the Sri Lankan Civil War is still felt today, with tensions between different communities and ongoing debates over the role of ethnicity and power dynamics in Sri Lankan politics.

Books

Sri Lanka - 1983 to 2009