r Ministry of Defence - Sri Lanka

“National Health Strategies for Health of Migrant and Refugee Population and Preservation of Health Security in the Country”

April 07, 2022

Institute of National Security Studies

“National Health Strategies for Health of Migrant and Refugee Population and Preservation of Health Security in the Country”

Press Release

Institute of National Security Studies (INSS), the premier think tank on National Security established under the Ministry of Defence, organized a Public Lecture titled “National Health Strategies for Health of Migrant and Refugee Population and Preservation of Health Security in the Country” on Wednesday, the 06th April 2022 from 1400hrs to 1530hrs (IST) via Zoom. Dr. (Mrs.) H.S.R Perera, Deputy Director General (Public Health Service) II, Ministry of Health was the Guest Speaker for the event. Rear Admiral Dimuthu Gunawardane RWP**,RSP,VSV, USP, nswc, psc, hdmc Director (Communications and Publications) at INSS moderated the event.

The Guest Speaker emphasized the importance of immigrant and refugee health for National Security. She stated that migration is an integral part of national security for development in the country. Preserving health of migrants, especially labour migrants needs more attention from key stakeholders. She pointed out that the importance of the local policies showcasing commitment for health of migrant and refugees. Dr. Perera further mentioned the global influences that shape countrie’s commitment towards migrants and refugees. Being migrants and refugees largely considered as vulnerable and its impaction to national development and the national security of the country must be more concerned.

The discussion was followed by an insightful Q and A session, which generated a great interaction between the speaker and the audience. Final remarks of the Public Lecture were delivered by the moderator. Ms. Dilmini Abeyrathne, Research Assistant at INSS, delivered the vote of thanks marking the closure of the event subsequent to the remarks delivered by the moderator.