Sarvodaya’s Peace Action Plan In Action: A Case Study Of A Southern Sri Lankan Village

Erica Hougland, School for International Training

Abstract

This paper describes the ongoing Sarvodaya Shramadana peace activities in a southern Sri Lankan village in 2006. Questions about the villagers’ perceptions and opinions of these peace-building activities are explored using a grounded theory approach. Findings indicate that Sarvodaya is indeed highly regarded amongst villagers, however, resources could be redirected within these programs in order to provoke greater change at the grassroots level. The efficacy of the activities and programs and suggestions for future interventions are considered. This research will benefit Sarvodaya leadership in making future decisions regarding peace activity programming as well as scholars and individuals who may work with Sarvodaya peace programs.