The Sri Lanka Foreign Service Association (SLFSA) expressed deep concern on Friday over recent political appointments to Head of Mission (HOM) positions in the country’s diplomatic missions. In a statement, the SLFSA highlighted that several appointments were made from outside the Sri Lanka Foreign Service (SLFS), bypassing career diplomats in favor of individuals with political affiliations.
Full text of the statement: The Sri Lanka Foreign Service Association (SLFSA) notes with deep concern that several recent appointments to Head of Mission (HOM) positions have been made from outside the Sri Lanka Foreign Service (SLFS), disregarding the established norms of professionalism, meritocracy, and diplomatic expertise.
The SLFSA expresses its strong disappointment over these appointments, which have overlooked experienced, highly qualified, and career Foreign Service Officers who have dedicated their careers to representing Sri Lanka on the global stage. The Sri Lanka Foreign Service is a specialized cadre, trained specifically to execute the country’s foreign policy and safeguard its international interests. Bypassing career diplomats in favour of political appointees weakens institutional integrity and compromises Sri Lanka’s diplomatic standing.
This decision is particularly alarming, as it directly contradicts the Government of Sri Lanka’s 2024 election manifesto, which pledged to: – “Appointing professional career diplomats, with a proven track record to head Sri Lanka’s missions. Appointing qualified officers for Foreign Service on merit basis with professional excellence, with highest standards of ethical conduct and diplomatic discretion.” – “Immediate remedial action must be taken to depoliticize the Foreign Service and make appointments on merit.”
Despite these commitments, the continuation of politically motivated appointments undermines the integrity of Sri Lanka’s diplomatic corps and demotivates career diplomats who have undergone rigorous training and have extensive international experience.
There is a longstanding and regrettable precedent of ambassadorial and diplomatic positions being awarded as political favours by successive governments. The SLFSA had hoped that this practice would end, allowing for a stronger, more independent Foreign Service that serves the best interests of Sri Lanka rather than political affiliations. The continuation of this trend is a matter of grave concern, not only for the Foreign Service but for the country as a whole.
The SLFSA strongly urges the Government to reconsider these appointments, prioritise merit-based selections, and uphold its commitment to a professional, independent, and effective Foreign Service.
The Association has made repeated requests for meetings with H.E. the President and the Hon. Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism to discuss these concerns. However, despite multiple follow-ups, an opportunity for engagement has not yet been granted. The SLFSA will continue to pursue these meetings.
