Poverty Alleviation in Sri Lanka : A Study of Policy Impact on Political Behaviour

Abstract

There are numerous explanations on the relationship between public policy and political behavior. Generally, it is assumed that political behavior shapes the nature of the public policy. This article studies the impact of public policy in shaping the political behavior referring to the national poverty alleviation programme in Sri Lanka popularly known as Samurdhi (Prosperity) Movement. A questionnaire covering 150 respondents forms the main source of data while formal and informal interviews and information collected as participant observer by the researcher has been employed in explanation. The study covers the policy approach, activities and implementing mechanism and an analysis of the impact of public policy on political behavior. It concludes that the present public policy is not empowering the people and it has contributed to perpetuate the subordination denying opportunities to air the voice of the poor.