Cardinal problem

Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith’s recent proclamation denouncing same-sex relationships is a stark reminder of the centuries-old tension between religious doctrine and individual freedoms. While the right to freedom of religion or belief must be upheld in any democratic society, it cannot and should not be wielded as a tool to deny others their fundamental human rights.

Sri Lanka’s criminal code, imposed in 1884 under British colonial rule, continues to criminalise same-sex relations. This archaic law, rooted in the morality of Victorian Britain and further justified by religious texts and canon law, has no place in a modern, pluralistic society. These laws have been repealed in imperialist nations long years ago while ironically, they remain in the statute books of their former colonies, Sri Lanka included. Even the Vatican has changed its position on same-sex relations, with recent Popes calling for non-discrimination. In 2023 Pope Francis in an interview said that “being homosexual is not a crime.” He defined as “unjust” laws that criminalise homosexuality or homosexual activity and urged church members, including bishops, to show “tenderness” as “God does with each of his children.”

It is deeply concerning that Cardinal Ranjith, a prominent spiritual figure, feels empowered to speak with such authority on matters of private morality while ignoring the dignity and autonomy of LGBTQ+ individuals at a time when even the Catholic Church, long known for its conservative stance on gender and sexuality, has shown signs of evolution.

The role of a religious leader is to guide spiritual well-being within their own community. It is not to enforce a particular moral code as law, especially one that calls for discrimination or punishment of people simply for who they are. Canon law may prescribe harsh penalties—including, historically, the stoning to death of those who engage in same-sex relations—but these have no legitimacy in the governance of a secular state nor any relevance in today’s context.

What should remain a matter of personal choice between consenting adults is still treated as a criminal offence in Sri Lanka which is a cruel injustice that marginalises and endangers an already vulnerable community. Sri Lanka is far from legalising same-sex relations when it still considers it a crime, punishable by jail time, to be in such a relationship. This has made law abiding citizens ‘criminals’ in the eyes of the law. 

Sri Lanka must resist the influence of outdated and bigoted interpretations of religion that seek to uphold injustice. The State’s duty is to protect all citizens, especially the marginalised, victimised and vulnerable, from harm—including harm that comes cloaked in the authority of religious tradition. If we are to move forward as a society, we must ensure that religious freedom is never used as a justification for denying others their freedom to love, to live without fear, and to be treated with dignity.

It is not only time to repeal the laws criminalising same-sex relations—it is time to reject the voices that use religion as a justification for bigotry. Let us remember no one’s freedom of belief includes the right to oppress others. The future of Sri Lanka must be one of equality, compassion, and justice for all.

The people have given a mandate to President Anura Kumara Disanayake and his Government to bring about systemic change. It is hoped that they would have the moral courage to give voice and effect to that mandate irrespective of loud, bigoted and malicious voices of regression.