Sri Lanka’s 2024 Elections: Voters Demand Clear Climate Policies Amid Rising Misinformation and Economic Concerns says CFC Survey  

Sri Lanka’s upcoming parliamentary elections mark a pivotal moment for the nation, as climate change takes center stage in political discourse. CFC Sri Lanka recently conducted a survey of voter opinion that reveals that while climate policies are gaining traction among the electorate, economic and social issues remain at the forefront of voter priorities. 

This survey delves into voters’ perceptions of climate policies and how these could influence their choices in the 2024 elections. With parties like UNP, SJP, and NPP each offering distinct approaches to the nation’s climate future, understanding the electorate’s stance has never been more essential.

Climate Policy and Its Influence on Voter Behavior

The survey highlights that nearly 80% of respondents are influenced by a party’s stance on climate policies when deciding their vote.

However, this influence is moderated by the pressing economic and social concerns that many Sri Lankans face, which often take precedence over environmental issues. Despite these challenges, there are clear priorities among the electorate when it comes to climate action. Respondents emphasize the need for policies that promote local sustainability initiatives, enhance environmental justice and accountability, and address immediate issues such as pollution and deforestation.

Perception of Climate-Related Policies

While there is significant awareness of climate change among Sri Lankan voters, the depth of understanding regarding specific climate policies varies widely. The survey shows that renewable energy initiatives, particularly those focusing on solar and wind energy, along with sustainable agriculture, are the most recognized areas, with 60%-65% of respondents familiar with these topics.

However, awareness drops significantly when it comes to more complex concepts such as environmental justice and international climate collaborations, with only about 30%-35% indicating familiarity. The least understood area appears to be green hydrogen technology, with only 18.3% of respondents aware of it. Additionally, misinformation about climate change remains a critical issue; 65% of participants reported encountering misleading information in mainstream and social media. This is concerning, as 86% believe that such misinformation negatively impacts the development and implementation of effective climate policies.

Preferred Approaches to Climate Action

Practical, locally-driven sustainable initiatives appear to resonate most with the public, with 51.6% of respondents supporting renewable energy projects and conservation efforts as effective strategies. 

However, there is also substantial support, approximately 40%, for more advanced solutions like green hydrogen technology, carbon capture, and international collaborations aimed at climate resilience. Moreover, there is a strong belief that tackling climate change can drive economic benefits; 88.2% of respondents see the potential for green jobs and increased investment in renewable energy as opportunities for Sri Lanka to boost its economy.

Information Sources and Voter Engagement

 The survey results indicate that voters prefer using social media to stay informed about political parties’ climate policies, with 50.6% favoring this platform. Other popular sources include TV and radio debates (37.6%), as well as online articles (30.1%). 

There is also a clear desire among the electorate for more information on climate policies, with 72% of respondents expressing interest in understanding political agendas better before casting their votes.

Key findings of the survey 

·      Climate Awareness is High but Policy Knowledge is Uneven

·      Climate Change is an Important Electoral Issue, But Not the Top Priority

·      Misinformation is a Barrier to Effective Climate Action

·      Voter Preferences Lean Toward Practical, Local Solutions

·      Climate Action Seen as an Economic Opportunity

·      Social Media is a Key Tool for Climate Policy Communication

 Key Demographic Insights

The majority of survey respondents were between the ages of 25-34 (40.9%), indicating strong engagement among younger adults. The smallest group was those aged 65 and above, while the 18-24 age bracket was the second largest. Moreover, a significant portion (56%) of respondents were highly educated, holding at least a bachelor’s degree or higher. Meanwhile, about 25.8% had education levels of A/L (Advanced Level) or below. Also, most respondents hailed from the Western Province (39.8%), followed by the Southern Province (20.4%).

Conclusion

The survey clearly shows that climate change is becoming a significant factor in shaping voter decisions in Sri Lanka. However, for many, economic and social issues still take precedence. The findings suggest that political parties need to better communicate their climate policies to engage an electorate that is increasingly aware of environmental challenges but also grappling with pressing day-to-day concerns.

As the election approaches, candidates will need to strike a balance between addressing immediate economic needs and investing in long-term climate resilience. The electorate’s desire for practical, locally-driven solutions and clear communication on climate policies presents an opportunity for political leaders to align their agendas with the public’s growing environmental consciousness.