Guidebook on Evidence-Based
Policymaking in Sri Lanka
By Marga Institute
Chapter 01
Chapter 1 - Introduction to Evidence Based Policymaking
Welcome to the guidebook on making policies using real evidence, not just guesses. Evidence-Based Policymaking (EBPM) is a smart way to make policies using solid facts and information.
Chapter 02
Chapter 2 - Foundations of Evidence-Based Policymaking
At its core, a policy is a course of action adopted and pursued by a government, organization, or individual. It’s essentially a guiding principle used to set direction in an organization or government.
Chapter 03
Chapter 3 - Critical Research in Policy Making
Critical research is instrumental in unraveling the complex web of social, economic, and political elements that underpin various issues. It shines a light on the core reasons behind these issues,
Chapter 04
Chapter 4 - Role of Government Officials in Policymaking
Government officials are central to the policymaking process, holding the responsibility to craft and implement policies that shape the society and economy.
Chapter 05
Chapter 5 - Engaging Public Sectors and Civil Society
Policymaking that embraces inclusivity and equity is essential in creating policies that fairly represent and benefit all sectors of society, especially those from marginalized or underrepresented communities.
Chapter 06
Chapter 6 - From Research to Policy Implementation
The translation of research into policies is a critical process in Evidence-Based Policymaking (EBPM). This process involves converting academic research findings into actionable and effective policy measures.
Chapter 07
Chapter 7 - Capacity Building for Evidence Based Policy Making
In the contemporary landscape of governance and public administration, the imperative for evidence-based policy making (EBPM) has never been more pronounced.
Chapter 08
Chapter 8 - Learning from the Past, Looking into the Future
The policymaking environment in Sri Lanka is deeply rooted in its diverse historical, cultural, and political landscape. The country’s journey through colonial rule, internal conflicts,
Copyright Page
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the prior written permission of the publisher. This guidebook is intended for educational and policy development purposes. While every precaution has been taken in the preparation of this book, the Marga Institute and the authors assume no responsibility for errors, omissions or damages resulting from the use of the information contained herein.
First Edition, 2024
Published by Marga Institute, Sri Lanka
ISBN: ISBN 978-955-582-139-1
Acknowledgements
We extend our deepest gratitude to the 14 Civil Society Organization (CSO) partners and The Asia Foundation for their invaluable support and collaboration. Our thanks also go out to the Local Government Authorities from 14 districts across Sri Lanka, whose insights and contributions have been pivotal in the shaping of this guidebook. We are also grateful for the financial support of the United States Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor (DRL)
We are profoundly thankful to the Marga Research Team for their tireless efforts, dedication, and commitment to excellence. Their work forms the backbone of this publication.
Special appreciation is extended to the community leaders and the public, whose experiences and inputs have been essential in enriching the content of this book. Your stories and challenges have illuminated the path towards effective policymaking.
Our sincere thanks to the translators who have made this guidebook accessible to a broader audience, ensuring that the knowledge contained within transcends linguistic barriers.
Most importantly, we acknowledge the collective effort of all parties involved for sharing their findings with the community and aiding the decision-making process. Your contributions have been instrumental in the advancement of evidence-based policymaking in Sri Lanka.