Sarvodaya

Sarvodaya is a Sri Lankan Buddhist-inspired non-governmental organization that was founded by A. T. Ariyaratne in 1958, with the goal of promoting social justice, peace, and sustainable development through community development and grassroots activism, inspired by the principles of Mahatma Gandhi and Buddhism. The organization has worked closely with various international organizations, including the United Nations Development Programme and the World Bank, to implement its programs and projects. Sarvodaya has also collaborated with local organizations, such as the Sri Lanka Red Cross Society and the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, to promote its objectives. The organization's work has been recognized and supported by prominent individuals, including Dalai Lama and Nelson Mandela.

Introduction

The concept of Sarvodaya is rooted in the principles of Buddhism and Gandhian philosophy, which emphasize the importance of non-violence, self-reliance, and community empowerment. The organization's founder, A. T. Ariyaratne, was influenced by the ideas of Mahatma Gandhi and Buddha, and sought to apply these principles to address the social and economic challenges facing Sri Lanka in the post-independence era. Sarvodaya has worked with various organizations, including the World Health Organization and the Food and Agriculture Organization, to implement its health and agriculture programs. The organization has also collaborated with local universities, such as the University of Peradeniya and the University of Colombo, to promote its objectives.

History

The history of Sarvodaya dates back to 1958, when A. T. Ariyaratne founded the organization with a group of like-minded individuals, including L. J. M. Cooray and H. W. Jayewardene. The organization's early work focused on promoting rural development and community empowerment through the establishment of village councils and cooperatives. During the 1970s and 1980s, Sarvodaya expanded its work to include disaster relief and rehabilitation efforts, particularly in response to the 1971 JVP insurrection and the 1983 Black July riots. The organization has also worked with international organizations, such as the International Committee of the Red Cross and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, to provide humanitarian assistance to affected communities.

Philosophy

The philosophy of Sarvodaya is based on the principles of Buddhism and Gandhian philosophy, which emphasize the importance of non-violence, self-reliance, and community empowerment. The organization's philosophy is also influenced by the ideas of E. F. Schumacher and Ivan Illich, who emphasized the importance of appropriate technology and community-based development. Sarvodaya's philosophy is reflected in its emphasis on participatory development, sustainable livelihoods, and social justice, and its commitment to promoting peace and reconciliation in Sri Lanka. The organization has also been influenced by the ideas of Martin Luther King Jr. and Desmond Tutu, who emphasized the importance of non-violent resistance and reconciliation.

Movement and Activism

Sarvodaya has been at the forefront of various social and political movements in Sri Lanka, including the peace movement and the environmental movement. The organization has worked with other civil society organizations, such as the National Peace Council and the Centre for Policy Alternatives, to promote peace and reconciliation in Sri Lanka. Sarvodaya has also been involved in various advocacy and lobbying efforts, including campaigns to promote human rights and social justice. The organization has collaborated with international organizations, such as Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, to promote its objectives.

Impact and Legacy

The impact and legacy of Sarvodaya can be seen in its contributions to community development and social justice in Sri Lanka. The organization's work has helped to promote peace and reconciliation in Sri Lanka, and has inspired similar movements and organizations in other countries, including India and Bangladesh. Sarvodaya has also been recognized for its innovative approaches to community development and disaster relief, and has received numerous awards and accolades, including the Ramon Magsaysay Award and the Right Livelihood Award. The organization's work has been supported by prominent individuals, including Jimmy Carter and Mary Robinson, who have recognized its contributions to promoting peace and social justice in Sri Lanka.

Category:Non-governmental organizations