Time running out to save Sri Lanka from economic collapse
Once hailed as South Asia's 'success story', the island nation has faced months of escalating violent unrest
Sri Lanka is in a state of chaos. Faced with the worst economic crisis of its 74 years of independence, the country has been roiled by days of violent unrest — leading the government to the brink of collapse.
For months, nationwide protests have taken place over soaring food prices, severe shortages of everyday essentials, weeks of power cuts lasting up to ten hours a day, and crippling petrol and diesel costs, which are up 92% and 76% respectively since January.
A national emergency remains in force, the army is enforcing a nationwide curfew and threatening to shoot looters on sight and some Western countries are issuing advisories to warn their citizens against non-essential travel to Sri Lanka.
Its growing notoriety — as a failing state and an unstable no-go area — is a bitter blow for the tear drop-shaped islan…
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