The Cultural Roots of Political Corruption in Sri Lanka: Examining the Impact of Hierarchy, Nepotism, and Accountability.

Sri Lanka is a country known for its rich and diverse culture, which is a blend of Indian, Arab, European, and indigenous traditions. However, this culture has been tarnished by the widespread political corruption that has plagued the country for several decades. In this article, we will explore how Sri Lanka’s cultural practices have contributed to the prevalence of political corruption.

Hierarchy and Respect for Authority

One of the key features of Sri Lankan culture is its emphasis on hierarchy and respect for authority. This cultural trait is deeply ingrained in the society, where individuals are expected to show respect to those in positions of power, such as politicians and government officials. This deference to authority figures has created an environment where those in power are often viewed as untouchable and immune to criticism, allowing corruption to flourish with impunity.

Nepotism and Favoritism

Another cultural aspect that has contributed to political corruption in Sri Lanka is the practice of nepotism and favoritism. In Sri Lanka, family connections and personal relationships often play a significant role in determining who gets jobs, contracts, and promotions. This has led to a situation where the most qualified individuals are often overlooked in favor of less qualified individuals who have connections to those in power. This practice has also created a culture of entitlement, where individuals feel that they are entitled to certain privileges simply because of their social status or connections.

Lack of Accountability

Another cultural practice that has contributed to political corruption in Sri Lanka is the lack of accountability. In Sri Lanka, there is often a reluctance to hold those in power accountable for their actions. This can be attributed to the cultural belief that criticizing those in power is disrespectful and could lead to retribution. This lack of accountability has created a culture of impunity, where those in power are free to engage in corrupt practices without fear of punishment.

Sri Lanka’s cultural practices have contributed to the prevalence of political corruption in the country. The emphasis on hierarchy and respect for authority, the practice of nepotism and favoritism, and the lack of accountability have all created an environment where corruption can thrive. If Sri Lanka is to overcome political corruption, it must first address these cultural practices and work towards creating a culture of transparency, accountability, and meritocracy.

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