EDUCATION

CENTRE FOR SOCIETY AND RELIGION

(CSR), MARADANA

Established in August 1971 by the late Bishop Leo Nanayakkara, OSB, and Fr. Tissa Balasuriya, OMI, the Centre for Society and Religion (CSR) was born at a critical crossroads in Sri Lanka’s history. Facing increasingly grave social and economic challenges, the founders dedicated the Centre to the transformation of persons, relationships, and societal structures to render life more dignified and worthwhile for all Sri Lankans.

Our Vision and Mission

CSR’s mission is modeled on the life of Jesus, who ardently desired the holistic growth and liberation of all people. Strongly influenced by the teachings of Vatican II and liberation theology, CSR consistently stresses the inseparable link between social justice and spirituality.

We firmly believe that the true struggle faced by the masses is not the battle between dominant political ideologies, but the everyday fight for a life of dignity. Therefore, rather than engaging merely in run-of-the-mill welfare work, CSR promotes a vision of integral human liberation based on human rights, equitable economic development, and the fair distribution of land and resources.

A Pluralistic and Inclusive Approach

Operating within a diverse society, CSR recognizes the importance of harnessing the liberative resources of all faiths, as well as the positive values of humanistic ideologies. We challenge the Church and society at large to return to their roots and collaborate across boundaries. By embracing the pluralistic nature of Sri Lanka, we work toward a mental and moral revolution—one that champions human freedom, equity, and distributive justice while actively minimizing clashes caused by ideological, racial, or religious differences.

Advocacy and Grassroots Impact

Over the decades, CSR has boldly stood with the marginalized, the displaced, and the oppressed. A defining example of our commitment is our ongoing work with the residents of "Summit Pura" in Mattakkuliya—urban poor who were forcibly relocated during the 1976 Non-Aligned Nations' Summit and subsequently forgotten by authorities.

Our advocacy extends far beyond the city, touching the lives of rural farmers, plantation workers, ethnic minorities, street families, and communities displaced by mega-development projects. Through awareness building and creative non-violence, we empower these communities to transform their own destinies.

Our Core Concerns

We direct our mission toward the most pressing issues dehumanizing our society today:

  • Justice, Peace, and Human Rights

  • Racial and Inter-Religious Harmony

  • The Rights of Women and Children

  • The Welfare of the Urban Poor, Fishermen, and Farmers

  • Support for Migrant Workers and Victims of War and Disaster

  • Environmental Protection and Ecology

  • Equitable Education and Healthcare

Our Activities and Strategy

To achieve these objectives, CSR engages in a dynamic range of strategic actions, including:

  • Research & Publications: Providing deep social analysis, maintaining a comprehensive library, and utilizing audio-visual communication to highlight injustices.

  • Advocacy & Legal Aid: Campaigning for civil liberties and providing legal support to the oppressed.

  • Education & Formation: Organizing study groups, seminars, and training programs to build awareness and analytical skills among the public.

  • Grassroots Implementation: Developing and executing direct-action projects to assist marginalized communities.

  • Global Solidarity: Building networks and collaborating with similar groups locally and internationally to promote global justice and peace.

Contact - CSR