Urgent Solidarity: Contextualizing John Paul II Solidarity In the Sri Lankan Context

Abstract

This article analyses Sri Lanka's current economic and political crisis, affecting 22 million citizens, through the lens of John Paul II’s concept of ‘structures of sin.’ It identifies the root causes of underdevelopment, political instability, and minority marginalization, attributing these issues to policies such as the ‘Sinhala Only Act,’ ‘Standardization,’ ‘State-Sponsored Colonization,’ and the privileged status of Buddhism in national politics. These structures have exacerbated polarization and hindered the nation’s potential for growth. In response, the article advocates for the virtue of solidarity, as outlined by John Paul II, as a remedy to these entrenched injustices. Solidarity emphasizes social interconnectedness and the pursuit of unity, suggesting that the Church, despite being a minority in Sri Lanka, can play a pivotal role in peacebuilding. By fostering interfaith collaboration and engaging with peace-promoting individuals, the Church can contribute to national reconciliation, fulfilling its prophetic mission. The study employs phenomenological and inductive methods. The phenomenological approach explores the lived experiences of Sri Lankans amid ethnic conflict and economic crisis, while the inductive method draws broader theological insights from specific observations. However, the analysis has limitations. It relies primarily on John Paul II’s theological concepts, neglecting secular political and economic frameworks. It also narrowly focuses on selected structures of sin, overlooking global economic pressures, internal governance issues, and external actors. Furthermore, it prioritizes the Church's role, without fully considering civic, political, or international contributions. In conclusion, the article underscores the urgent need for solidarity to address Sri Lanka’s economic crisis and foster peace. John Paul II’s vision of solidarity offers a crucial framework for the country’s path to recovery and human flourishing.