The Sri Lanka Diaspora: Demographic Basics … 2009

Courtesy of Sunil Thenabadu  & Keith Bennett

The Sri Lankan diaspora consists of approximately three million Sri Lankans living abroad, significantly contributing to their host countries and maintaining ties with Sri Lanka.

Demographics and Distribution

The Sri Lankan diaspora includes emigrants and expatriates from Sri Lanka residing in various countries, with significant populations in Europe, the Middle East, East Asia, Australia, and North America. An estimate from 2013 indicated that around three million Sri Lankans live outside their home country, with about one million permanently settled abroad. This diaspora is characterized by a diverse mix of ethnicities, including Tamils, Sinhalese, and Burghers, each contributing uniquely to the cultural landscape of their host nations. 

Wikipedia+1

Economic Contributions

The diaspora plays a crucial role in the Sri Lankan economy, particularly through remittances. In 2009, Sri Lankans abroad sent home approximately US$3.3 billion, which has been a vital source of income for many families and the national economy. This figure has continued to grow, highlighting the importance of expatriate workers. The diaspora also contributes to the economy by investing in local businesses and engaging in various professional sectors. 

Wikipedia

Waves of Migration

Sri Lankan migration can be categorized into several key waves since the country’s independence in 1948. These include the migration of Tamils during the civil conflict, the movement of skilled professionals seeking better opportunities, and the temporary labor migration to the Middle East. Each wave has shaped the diaspora’s identity and its relationship with Sri Lanka. 

University of Colombo

Social and Cultural Impact

The Sri Lankan diaspora maintains strong cultural ties with their homeland, often participating in cultural events and supporting community organizations. However, the relationship between the diaspora and the Sri Lankan government has been complex, especially regarding the Tamil diaspora, which has faced challenges and negative perceptions in the post-war context. 

diasporafordevelopment.eu

Government Engagement

The Sri Lankan government has recognized the potential of the diaspora as a valuable asset for national development. Efforts are being made to engage with the diaspora through policies aimed at fostering connections and encouraging investment back home. This includes initiatives to promote dual citizenship and facilitate the return of skilled professionals to contribute to the country’s growth. 

ceylontoday.lk+1In summary, the Sri Lankan diaspora is a vibrant and essential part of the global Sri Lankan community, contributing economically, socially, and culturally to both their host countries and Sri Lanka itself.

&&&&&&&&

A NOTE from The Thuppahiya

• The statistical picture here needs to be updated to 2025 and expanded to include more specific data from the major destinations: namely, UK, Canada, USA, Australia, France, Norway, Germany … with refined data for both numbers and citizen status of migrants in such spots as Singapore, Hong Kong, Tamilnadu as well as Dubai and other Middle-Eastern lands where the migrants may not be domiciled as such. THIS is not an easy set of tasks.
• As it happens, I have collected specific answers from perhaps 50-60 expatriates (many of them Burghers) who have migrated from the 1950s onwards – data that indicates why and how they moved away. I will require AID in collating this material …. some of  it  quite fascinating.

SEE …

Ceylonese Migrants to Australia in the 1950s and 1960s