The Republic of Korea, UN Women and Chrysalis partner to advance the women, peace and security agenda in Sri Lanka
UN Women and Chrysalis delivered in-kind support to approx. 100 women-led micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Badulla as part of a project funded by the Republic of Korea. The project supports the implementation of Sri Lanka’s National Action Plan on Women, Peace, and Security, where women’s economic empowerment and their active participation in leadership and peacebuilding are key priorities.
Building on a foundation of entrepreneurship training, the event marked a new chapter by equipping entrepreneurs with the tools and resources they need to scale their businesses, generate sustainable incomes, and foster social cohesion within communities.
Speaking at the event, Eunji Kang, Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of the Republic of Korea, said, “This initiative supports women entrepreneurs who have been affected by multiple crises over the last few years. By equipping women with the means to build and grow their businesses, we are not only investing in their economic potential but also reinforcing their role as leaders and key agents of peace within their communities.”
As the global community marks 25 years of the Women, Peace, and Security Agenda this year, Ramaaya Salgado, Head of Office at UN Women Sri Lanka, highlighted how women’s economic empowerment is deeply interconnected with the Women, Peace, and Security Agenda: “Economic inclusion is both a pathway to and pillar of sustainable peace. When women have equitable access to resources, employment, and financial independence, they are better positioned to influence decision-making processes, support community resilience, and contribute to conflict prevention. We thank the Republic of Korea for their continued partnership and commitment to advance the Women, Peace, and Security agenda in Sri Lanka”.
This project reflects a broader regional momentum. Sixteen countries in the Asia-Pacific region have adopted National Action Plans on Women, Peace, and Security; yet consistent funding and political commitment are essential to translate them into tangible outcomes. Despite progress, women continue to face stark disparities in economic participation. Across the region—including in Sri Lanka—women’s labor force participation remains nearly 30 percentage points behind that of men, a gap unchanged since 1995. Moreover, three in five working women are in the informal sector, often without access to social protection or financial security.
The project is currently implemented in the Badulla District, where participating entrepreneurs have also engaged in social cohesion trainings designed to foster inclusive and peaceful communities.
Ashika Gunasena, CEO of Chrysalis, highlighted, “Our collaboration with UN Women demonstrates the transformative impact of targeted support for women-led enterprises. We recognize the synergy between economic empowerment and building social cohesion and peace and its impact on sustainable development. Women entrepreneurs are vital connectors reviving economies, strengthening families, and rebuilding trust across communities.”
