Second THRIVE Project Steering Committee meets in Kilinochchi, ensuring gender equality central to district development

[Press Release]

Kilinochchi, Sri Lanka — Senior government representatives, development partners and implementing agencies gathered in Kilinochchi on 19 August for the second Project Steering Committee (PSC) meeting of the Together for Her: Resilience-building, Inclusivity and Voices for Equality (THRIVE) project. This represented an important milestone in strengthening partnerships and advancing locally led solutions for women's empowerment across Sri Lanka.

Funded by the Australian Government and jointly implemented by UN Women, Chrysalis and the Foundation for Innovative Social Development (FISD), THRIVE works across six districts to help women build sustainable livelihoods, strengthen resilience to climate and economic shocks, and take on greater leadership roles within their communities.

In its second year of implementation, the project's highest governance forum was hosted in a project district, Kilinochchi, reflecting local leadership and a commitment to ensuring that decision-making is informed by the realities, priorities, and aspirations of women on the ground.

Co-chaired by the Ministry of Women and Child Affairs, the Australian High Commission and UN Women Sri Lanka, the PSC convened national ministries, district administrations and implementing partners to review progress, identify priorities for the year ahead, and strengthen coordination.

"THRIVE demonstrates the impact that can be achieved when government, development partners and communities work together to expand opportunities for women and strengthen resilient livelihoods,"said Ms. Nilmini Herath, Additional Secretary (Development), Ministry of Women and Child Affairs. "The Project Steering Committee provides an important platform for government, development partners and communities to work together to ensure that these efforts continue to deliver meaningful results for women across the country."

"Australia is proud to support THRIVE as part of our commitment to advancing women's economic empowerment and inclusive development in Sri Lanka," said Laura Nicholson, Second Secretary, Australian High Commission, Sri Lanka. "This visit to Kilinochchi is an opportunity to connect with women who are leading change in their communities and to learn from their experiences. Their insights and leadership are invaluable in shaping approaches that support inclusive and sustainable development.”

"THRIVE is helping create the conditions for women to participate more fully in economic, social and civic life," said Ms. Ramaaya Salgado, Head of Office, UN Women Sri Lanka. "By strengthening livelihoods, supporting resilience to climate and economic shocks, and expanding opportunities for leadership and participation, the project contributes to broader efforts to advance gender equality and women's empowerment. The partnerships reflected in this Steering Committee are essential to ensuring that these gains are sustainable and reach women across all six project districts."

Participants attended a Townhall, bringing together local government representatives, civil society organisations and community members. PSC members also visited women-led enterprises and a Value Addition Centre. They engaged with women entrepreneurs and community members to hear first-hand insights of their experiences. Participants observed how women-led businesses are adapting to climate change and other shocks, while considering how THRIVE will support stronger livelihoods, resilience and economic opportunities across project communities.

Through strong partnerships with government institutions, civil society organisations, and local communities, THRIVE is helping build a more inclusive economy where women are empowered not only to participate, but to lead and thrive.