• Thiwankee Abeywardena Wickramasinghe

Abstract This research investigates the conditions that shape the sustainability of democratic local government culture in Sri Lanka, focusing on participatory governance, political dynamics, socio-economic challenges, and the role of civil society organizations (CSOs). A qualitative approach was used; data collection consisted of 30 semi-structured interviews with elected officials, administrators, representatives of civil society, and citizens. The findings point out that limited citizen engagement, political patronage, weak accountability mechanisms, and resource disparities between urban and rural areas are some of the aspects that systematically hinder the ability of local governance to function effectively. Participatory frameworks and CSOs, in turn, were observed as certain key enablers of democratic practices, whose full potential is hampered by systemic barriers in the form of lack of funding and political interference. Recommendations emphasize the need for institutional reforms, enhanced fiscal autonomy, higher degrees of accountability, and representation through participatory mechanisms. The resolution of these challenges by Sri Lanka creates room for developing a resilient framework in governance and contributes to achieving long-term democratic sustainability at the local levels.

Local governance, participatory democracy, accountability, political patronage, Sri Lanka, civil society organizations, fiscal autonomy

"The Long-Term Sustainability of a Democratic Local Government Culture in Sri Lanka", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 2, page no.c803-c817, February-2025, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2502295.pdf

"The Long-Term Sustainability of a Democratic Local Government Culture in Sri Lanka", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 2, page no. ppc803-c817, February-2025, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2502295.pdf