Govt establishes Institute of National Security Studies

An institute with the intention of assisting the Defence Ministry to formulate and execute strategic plans and policies for a secure, safe and sovereign country with territorial integrity, a statement from the ministry said.

The Institute of National Security Studies of Sri Lanka (INSSSL), the premiere national think tank of the Ministry of Defence has been established to understand the security environment and to work with the government to craft evidence based policy options and strategies for debate and discussions to ensure national security. It will conduct a broad array of national security research for the Ministry.

Having 'To improve policy and decision making through qualitative research and analysis with excellence' as its Vision the institute will strive to achieve its Mission of 'From high quality research to continuously support the Ministry of Defence of formulating and executing strategic plans and policies for a secure, safe and sovereign country with territorial integrity'.

The INSSSL has as its objectives to provide sound and timely assessment on facets of national security to secure Sri Lanka from threats to its national security and to serve as a platform for government, private sector and civil society to collaborate, debate and discuss issues affecting Sri Lanka's security and stability to synergize and draw from a spectrum of thinkers and planners.

It also has its objectives to serve as a nucleus for deliberations and as a capacity builder for strengthening institutions on national security aspects and to serve as a central repository of knowledge for both scholars and practitioners committed to the nation's unity and harmony.

The Institute of National Security Studies (INSSSL) will function under the stewardship of  the President as the President/Patron of the Board of Governors. The Secretary to the Ministry of Defence will act as its Chairman while the Chief of Defence Staff and Commanders of the tri forces will be Board members. Mr. Asanga Abegoonasekera will serve as the Director General. He received his letter of appointment from Secretary Eng. Karunasena Hettiarachchi on 02nd August 2016.