Sri Lanka’s Liberal Youth Movement joins global liberal youth federation

Colombo, June 19 (Daily Mirror) - The Liberal Youth Movement (LYM) of Sri Lanka has secured official membership in the International Federation of Liberal Youth (IFLRY), marking a significant milestone for youth-led civic engagement in the country.

The membership was granted during the 58th IFLRY General Assembly held in Taipei, Taiwan, making LYM part of one of the world’s largest global networks of liberal and democratic youth organisations.

Founded in 2022 by Attorney-at-Law, author and podcaster Namini Panditha, the Liberal Youth Movement has focused on promoting constitutional literacy, youth leadership, individual freedoms and the rule of law through grassroots initiatives across Sri Lanka.

According to the movement, its admission to IFLRY followed an assessment of its local impact and civic engagement, including youth training programmes, legal advocacy and public awareness campaigns.

A key initiative of the organisation is the “Liberal with Namini” digital programme on the Neon Media YouTube channel, which aims to simplify political and legal issues while encouraging public dialogue among young people.

The movement has also engaged in legal activism by filing Fundamental Rights applications before the Supreme Court on issues related to constitutional accountability and the rule of law.

During the 2024 Presidential Election, LYM representatives held discussions with presidential candidates and presented proposals on liberty, democratic governance and youth-focused reforms.

The organisation has also undertaken humanitarian initiatives, including providing assistance to flood-affected communities following Cyclone Ditwah and supporting hospitalised patients whose relatives were unable to travel due to severe flooding.

Commenting on the achievement, founder Namini Panditha thanked the IFLRY Bureau for its guidance throughout the membership process, acknowledging the support of IFLRY President Hania Knio, Secretary General Tirza Drent, Vice President Julie Ruby and Treasurer Kai Pischke.

Panditha also expressed gratitude to the movement’s mentors, advisors, donors, volunteers, members and district coordinators, stating that their commitment had made the international recognition possible.

She said the membership would create new opportunities for Sri Lankan youth through access to international collaboration, educational resources and global democratic networks.