Sri Lanka Expelled from Open Government Partnership (OGP)

Sri Lanka's OGP Membership Revoked

Sri Lanka has officially lost its membership in the Open Government Partnership (OGP), effective from May 10, 2025, following the country's failure to submit a required action plan or demonstrate interest in re-engaging with the initiative. The decision was confirmed in a letter from OGP CEO Aidan Eyakuze on May 28, 2025.

Why Sri Lanka Was Marked 'Inactive'

The OGP Steering Committee designated Sri Lanka as inactive in May 2024, citing the country’s failure to deliver an action plan during the 2019-2021 cycle, a key requirement for continued participation. Despite its initial enthusiasm and early adoption in 2015, the nation has now failed to meet expectations for over a year.

OGP’s Mission: Transparency and Accountability

OGP, a global initiative aimed at fostering transparency, accountability, and citizen engagement in governance, now includes 152 countries. Sri Lanka, the first South Asian country to join in 2015, has been a member since recognizing the right to information in the 19th Amendment to its Constitution.

Path to Reinstatement: A Long Road Ahead

To regain full OGP membership, Sri Lanka must either publish a new action plan in line with OGP's standards or work with international bodies to set a clear timeline for a revised plan. As of now, the government has not met these requirements, despite expressing interest in rejoining the Partnership at some point in the future.

Civil Society Withdrawal Plays Key Role

The controversy surrounding Sri Lanka’s OGP membership largely stems from a breakdown in cooperation with civil society organizations (CSOs), which were key partners in creating the country’s action plans. In February 2024, these groups withdrew from the process in protest over contentious legislation, such as the Online Safety Act and proposed anti-terrorism laws, which they saw as a threat to civil liberties.

OGP's Global Role in Reform and Accountability

As a global initiative, OGP supports governments and civil societies in developing policies that increase transparency and citizen participation. OGP staff provide strategic guidance and facilitate learning opportunities across member countries, ensuring that governments remain accountable to their citizens.

Sri Lanka's Future with OGP: What’s Next?

While Sri Lanka’s membership has been revoked for now, the country could apply for