New Era for Futures Research in Sri Lanka: Launch of the Millennium Project Sri Lanka Node

Colombo, May 5, 2025 — A significant step toward strengthening Sri Lanka’s role in global futures research was marked today with the official launch of the Millennium Project Sri Lanka Node and its dedicated website: www.millenniumprojectsrilanka.org.

The Millennium Project is one of the world’s largest and most respected independent global think tanks focused on strategic foresight. Established in 1996 under the American Council for the United Nations University and operating independently since 2009, the Project connects futurists, scholars, business leaders, and policymakers across 72 countries, fostering global collaboration on long-term challenges and opportunities.

The incorporation of the Sri Lanka Node brings the country into a global network dedicated to foresight-driven policy development, innovation, research, and international dialogue. As a nation that relies heavily on international partnerships for economic development, trade, and diplomacy, this new connection offers a valuable platform for Sri Lanka to contribute to and benefit from future-oriented global conversations. It links Sri Lanka not only to the wider Millennium Project network but also to its headquarters in Washington D.C., creating stronger ties for international collaboration.

The launch was formally discussed at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on May 5, 2025, in the presence of Director General of Public Diplomacy, Ms. Niluka Kadurugamuwa, senior Ministry officials, and the leadership of the Sri Lanka Node. The official website was launched by Prof. Asanga Abeyagoonasekera, Regional Director for South Asia and Ex-officio Board Member of the Millennium Project in Washington D.C., alongside the newly appointed directors of the Sri Lanka Node. Prof. Abeyagoonasekera remarked, “A simple example of a foresight study is the much-discussed India–Sri Lanka physical bridge project. As a country, we have not conducted an in-depth analysis of its long-term impact over the next 25 years. The demographic, socio-political, and economic drivers must be assessed using the foresight toolkit available through the Millennium Project.” He further emphasized that government policymakers, the business community, and other key sectors stand to benefit significantly from this globally connected initiative.

The Board of Directors of Millennium Project Sri Lanka includes Dr. Madu Fernando, Imran Cader, Dr. Arosha Fernando, and Dr. Senaka De Silva. The Node is further supported by a distinguished group of Fellows representing a wide range of sectors and expertise. These include Air Chief Marshal Gagan Bulathsinghala, journalist Rathindra Kuruwita, anti-corruption advocate and former Executive Director of Transparency International Sri Lanka Ms. Nadishani Perera, former senior government official Ms. Wasantha Perera, researchers Ms. Piyumani Ranasinghe and K.D.D.B. Vimanga, social activist Ms. Krystle Reid Wijesuriya, and Sri Lankan-Australian entrepreneur and millionaire Dr. Rosh Jallage.

Millennium Project Sri Lanka is also a member of the South Asia Foresight Network (SAFN), joining other nodes from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, and Pakistan. The launch marks a significant step forward in institutionalizing foresight in Sri Lanka and paves the way for inclusive, evidence-based strategies to address both local and global challenges.

Press Release by The MIllennium Project Sri Lanka