SL needs aid for development despite too many strings attached: Poll

The latest nationwide survey conducted by research firm TNS Lanka, for business magazine LMD, reveals that the majority of the people believe that Sri Lanka is in need of aid and donor assistance.

The magazine notes that according to the survey results 85% of those polled acknowledge that the country needs aid, while at least sixin 10 respondents opine that nations such as ours will continue to rely on such assistance. Furthermore, 83% of those consulted by the pollsters agree that it is right to borrow, to finance Sri Lanka’s national development plans.

According to LMD, however, 12% upholds that Sri Lanka doesn’t need aid and donor assistance, while 22% disagree that nations such as ours will continue to rely on aid. A slim minority (8%) say it is wrong to borrow for development. 

A vast majority (81%) of poll participants also believe that too many strings are attached to pledges that are made for aid, whereas only 5% disagree and 14% are unsure.

As to whether the aid we receive is being put to good use, only 39% of respondents believe it is, while 34% disagree and 27% aren’t sure, LMD notes.

Among the measures that should be taken to limit the aid we seek, the people believe that developing domestic production, and thereby accelerating economic development, is the way forward.

The latest edition of the pioneering business magazine has been released to leading supermarkets and bookstores in Colombo and the outstations. Its June Cover Story features an in-depth account of Sri Lanka’s ageing population – and the magazine notes that Sri Lankans are set to become the oldest people in South Asia by 2041 (for the full story log onto www.lmd.lk).