by Amarasiri de Silva

In contemporary world politics, there is a noticeable trend of working-class voters shifting their allegiances, leading to significant political realignments that influence the formation of governments. This phenomenon in world politics reflects a growing dissatisfaction among working-class communities with traditional party structures and their perceived inability to address issues like economic inequality, job security, and improving living conditions.

In many countries, this shift has seen the working class gravitate toward political parties or movements that prioritise populist rhetoric, nationalism, or anti-globalisation policies. In the contemporary world, several countries support political movements or parties that emphasise protectionist economic strategies, critique elite governance, and advocate for greater national sovereignty, disrupting traditional political landscapes. In the United States, the Republican Party under Donald Trump adopted “America First” policies, drawing working-class voters who had historically supported Democrats. In the United Kingdom, the Brexit movement, backed by the Conservatives, championed leaving the European Union to reclaim sovereignty, shifting traditional Labour voters in the “Red Wall” regions. Similarly, in France, Marine Le Pen’s National Rally has attracted disillusioned working-class voters with its anti-globalisation and protectionist agenda. Italy has seen parties like the Brothers of Italy, the League, and the Five Star Movement rise to prominence with Eurosceptic and nationalist platforms, while in Eastern Europe, Hungary’s Fidesz and Poland’s Law and Justice Party (PiS) combine economic protectionism with critiques of EU overreach. In Brazil, Jair Bolsonaro appealed to voters frustrated with traditional labour-oriented parties by promoting nationalist economic policies, while India’s BJP under Narendra Modi emphasises self-reliance through the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. Similar trends are visible in Germany, where the Alternative for Germany (AfD) has gained traction in former East German states, and in Australia, where right-leaning factions push for stricter immigration controls and protectionist policies. Across these countries, such movements reflect broader dissatisfaction with globalisation, neoliberalism, and the perceived detachment of traditional center-left parties from their core voter base.

Profound implications

The implications of this trend are profound. Governments formed through such coalitions often reflect the working class’s concerns, such as prioritising domestic industries, revising trade agreements, and addressing immigration policies. However, the realignment also challenges political stability, as it disrupts long-established ideological divides and compels parties to adapt to rapidly changing voter bases. This dynamic reshaping of voter blocs highlights a transformative period in global politics, where the working class’s evolving priorities play a pivotal role in determining political leadership and government formation.

According to Lawrence Wilson in the Epo Times, the 2024 U.S. presidential election may go down in history as a turning point when Republican and Democratic voter bases underwent a significant reorganisation along class lines, as highlighted by some political experts. While signs of this trend have been visible over the past four election cycles, the 2024 election marked a decisive shift in the political alignment of key demographics.

This realignment reflects a growing divide in political preferences between working-class and higher-income, highly educated voters. In 2024, the Republican Party of the USA attracted substantial support from working-class voters, many of whom expressed frustration with economic policies, cultural shifts, and perceived neglect by the political elite. These voters increasingly viewed the Grand Old Party (GOP) or republicans as a party that champions their economic and cultural concerns, such as job security, manufacturing revitalisation, and opposition to progressive social policies.

Departure from tradition

Conversely, higher-income voters and those with advanced educational backgrounds continued to favour the Democratic Party. This demographic has increasingly embraced the party’s focus on progressive policies, climate change, social justice, and globalisation. Democrats also garnered strong support from urban and suburban professionals, who align with their platform’s emphasis on diversity, equity, and technological innovation.

This shift represents a significant departure from traditional political coalitions. Historically, the Democratic Party was closely associated with the working class, mainly through labour unions and New Deal-era policies. Meanwhile, the Republican Party had strong ties to wealthier, business-oriented constituencies. The 2024 election has upended this dynamic, underscoring a growing cultural and economic polarization in American politics.

The realignment not only reshapes the ideological identity of both parties but also has profound implications for future elections and policymaking. As class increasingly defines political affiliation, voter engagement, campaign messaging, and coalition-building strategies will need to adapt to this evolving landscape. This shift could intensify debates about income inequality, economic reform, and cultural identity, making class a central axis in the USA’s political discourse.

Similarly, the 2024 parliamentary election in Sri Lanka marked a pivotal moment in the country’s political history, reflecting the deep dissatisfaction of its citizens with the ruling elite and their demand for a transformative change. This election was not merely a political event but the culmination of years of socio-economic instability, public frustration, and growing discontent with a government perceived to have failed its people in fundamental ways. The resounding victory of the left-oriented National People’s Power (NPP)/Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP), which secured more than two-thirds of the parliamentary seats, symbolised a seismic shift in the nation’s political landscape and priorities.

Economic challenges

For years, Sri Lanka has been grappling with severe economic challenges. By 2024, the cost of essential goods had reached unprecedented levels, placing an immense burden on the working class and vulnerable communities. The price of rice, the staple food for the majority of Sri Lankans, had skyrocketed, leaving many households struggling to afford basic meals. Widespread inflation, stagnant wages, and ineffective government intervention compounded this economic strain. These hardships created a fertile ground for resentment, with citizens increasingly blaming the incumbent government for their worsening living conditions.

At the heart of the public’s grievances was the issue of corruption. Allegations of widespread misuse of public funds, nepotism, and inefficiency plagued the ruling administration. Corruption had become an omnipresent menace, undermining public trust in state institutions and eroding faith in the country’s leadership. The perception that those in power prioritized personal wealth and political patronage over the welfare of the people became a rallying point for protests and calls for accountability. People called for a system change, which they thought was the remedy for the overarching government inefficiency. For many, the government’s inability to address these issues symbolized a broader failure of governance and a betrayal of public trust.

Critical shortages

Adding to this volatile situation were critical shortages of essential goods, including life-saving medicines and hospital supplies. Some nutrition surveys showed that over 26% of children in the country were malnourished. The healthcare system, already under strain, became a visible and painful symbol of the government’s incompetence. The inability to provide even the most basic necessities amplified public outrage, particularly among those most vulnerable to these shortages. This crisis highlighted the systemic weaknesses in the country’s infrastructure and the government’s failure to prioritise the needs of its people during a time of widespread suffering.

The growing economic and social turmoil led to a powerful citizen movement starting from Aragalaya as a public manifestation of the igniting frustration. Protests, strikes, and demonstrations became common as Sri Lankans from all walks of life united in their demand for change. This grassroots uprising was not confined to urban centers; it extended into rural areas, estate sector, mobilising farmers, workers, and youth alike. What began as a spontaneous outpouring of frustration soon evolved into a cohesive movement that rejected the political status quo of elite politics and sought meaningful reform. The momentum of this movement carried over into the parliamentary election, significantly influencing voter behavior and galvanising support for the NPP/JVP as a viable alternative.

NPP as beneficiary

The National People’s Power, led by the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna, emerged as the primary beneficiary of this wave of public discontent. The party positioned itself as a champion of the working class and the rural poor, promising to tackle corruption, reduce economic inequality, and address the immediate needs of the people. Their campaign focused on transparency, accountability, and social justice, resonating deeply with a population that had grown disillusioned with traditional political elite and the political parties. The NPP/JVP’s grassroots organising efforts and ability to articulate ordinary Sri Lankans’ concerns proved to be a decisive factor in their success.

The election results were nothing short of historic. The NPP/JVP secured an overwhelming two-thirds majority in parliament, giving them a solid mandate to implement their reform agenda. This is the first time in the history of preferential votes that a single party had won the election with a two-thirds majority. This landslide victory not only signaled the rejection of the ruling elite but also reflected the electorate’s demand for a government that prioritised the needs of the people over entrenched political and economic interests. For many, the election was a vindication of their struggles and a hopeful step toward a more equitable and just society.

The implications of the 2024 election are profound. It represents a turning point in Sri Lanka’s political trajectory, where the voices of the working class and marginalised communities reshaped the nation’s governance.

The newly elected government in Sri Lanka faces formidable challenges that will test its capacity to deliver on the promises that won it a sweeping mandate. At the forefront is the task of addressing the country’s deepening economic crisis. Years of mismanagement and corruption have left the economy in shambles, with soaring inflation, depleted foreign reserves, widespread unemployment, and trained people migrating abroad.

Need for new approach

To address these issues, the government should adopt a project-by-project approach while incorporating a cross-sectional perspective to ensure comprehensive solutions. For instance, the significant expenditure on milk powder imports could be tackled as an independent project. This would involve analyzing the root causes of high dependency on imports, such as insufficient local dairy production, and implementing targeted interventions to boost domestic output.

Such a project could include measures like incentivizing local farmers, improving dairy farming infrastructure, enhancing supply chains, and providing technical assistance to improve productivity. By addressing this specific issue as a standalone project, the government can create a focused strategy that reduces reliance on imports and strengthens the local economy. Simultaneously, adopting a cross-sectional perspective ensures that related sectors, such as agriculture, trade, and rural development, are considered in the planning and implementation phases, leading to a more integrated and sustainable outcome. This dual approach allows the government to tackle pressing issues efficiently while maintaining a holistic view of long-term development goals.

Rebuilding economic stability will require swift and effective policies to reduce the cost of living, revitalize key industries, and foster sustainable growth. Simultaneously, the government must attract foreign investments and secure international financial support while ensuring these efforts do not compromise national interests or burden future generations with unsustainable debt. Focusing on the bourgeoning tourist sector alone would be disastrous in the long run. The country needs stable industries to bring foreign wealth into the country.

Restoring public trust is another critical hurdle. Successive governments have eroded confidence in state institutions through systemic corruption and inefficiency for decades. The new administration must demonstrate an unwavering commitment to transparency, accountability, and good governance. This involves taking concrete steps to combat corruption at all levels of government, prosecute those responsible for previous misdeeds, and rebuild the judiciary and law enforcement as independent, trustworthy entities. Such measures will reinforce faith in the government and create a culture of accountability that deters future misconduct.

The country’s transport networks now struggle to meet even basic demands, causing inefficiencies and delays that directly impact productivity. Similarly, the energy grid suffers from instability and limited reach, leaving many areas underserved and slowing the pace of industrial and technological advancement. Healthcare facilities, which should serve as a lifeline for the nation, are overwhelmed by shortages of resources and outdated infrastructure, making it increasingly challenging to provide adequate care. These pressing issues necessitate immediate action to rebuild and modernize infrastructure, ensuring it can meet current and future needs.

The new government must take bold steps to prioritize infrastructure investments that benefit the broader population. Resuming and reconfiguring essential projects, such as the previously suspended light railway initiative funded by the Japanese government, would enhance public transportation and alleviate congestion in urban centers. Additionally, expanding access to clean water and reliable electricity must be at the forefront of development efforts, as these are fundamental to improving living standards of people in the dry zone areas who suffer from kidney disease caused by drinking polluted water.

Modernizing hospitals and schools is equally vital, as these institutions play a critical role in fostering a healthy and educated workforce capable of contributing to the nation’s recovery. Notably, the government must ensure that these investments address longstanding regional disparities by promoting equitable development across both urban, estate and rural sectors. By focusing on inclusive infrastructure reform, Sri Lanka can lay the foundation for a more resilient and prosperous future, restoring public confidence and enabling the country to achieve its full potential. Restructuring education facilities is crucial for fostering a fair and equitable society while addressing the persistent rural-urban disparities in education.

In Sri Lanka, rural schools often face significant challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, a lack of qualified teachers, and limited access to resources, which put students at a distinct disadvantage compared to their urban counterparts. To bridge this gap, it is essential to identify and support talented students from rural areas by providing scholarships that enable them to study in well-resourced urban schools. This approach not only enhances their educational opportunities but also helps to level the playing field, ensuring that all students, regardless of their geographic location, have a fair chance to succeed.

A broader and more comprehensive strategy to support this vision would involve creating government-funded scholarship programs targeted at high-achieving rural students who gain university admission. These scholarships would ensure that financial barriers do not prevent talented students from accessing higher education, allowing them to realize their full potential. As a further step, a select group of these students could be provided with opportunities to pursue advanced degrees at reputed institutions in Western countries, including postgraduate and doctoral studies. This dual pathway—domestic support combined with international exposure—would elevate individual academic achievements and benefit the nation as a whole.

This model has already proven successful in several Southeast Asian countries, such as China, India, and Thailand. In these nations, governments sponsor students to complete advanced degrees abroad, particularly in high-demand fields like science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), with a clear stipulation that they return home after their studies. These returnees bring back advanced knowledge, cutting-edge research techniques, and international networks, contributing significantly to national development. For example, China’s “Thousand Talents Program” and India’s focus on sending students to premier institutions have established world-class research facilities and industries driven by highly skilled professionals. Such initiatives have fostered innovation, boosted economic competitiveness, and addressed pressing societal challenges.

By adopting similar policies, Sri Lanka can create an education system that values merit and equity, ensuring that the nation’s brightest minds are identified, nurtured, and given opportunities to thrive regardless of their socioeconomic background. Additionally, a return obligation for students who study abroad ensures that the nation’s investment yields direct benefits, as these individuals would contribute to the local workforce, research ecosystems, and policy frameworks. Furthermore, this approach would help bridge the rural-urban divide in education, empowering students from underserved areas to play a significant role in national progress.

Policy implementation

Implementing such a policy would require a well-thought-out framework, including partnerships with prestigious foreign universities, the establishment of monitoring systems to track scholarship recipients, and career development pathways upon their return. With such a strategy, Sri Lanka could cultivate a generation of skilled professionals and innovators to lead the country toward sustainable development and global competitiveness.

Despite these challenges, the 2024 election presents a rare and transformative opportunity for Sri Lanka. The electorate’s decisive shift toward a left-oriented party with a strong mandate signals a collective desire for bold, systemic reforms. This mandate empowers the government to break free from the cycles of corruption and inefficiency that have long hindered the nation’s progress. It provides a platform to enact policies that prioritize the needs of the working class, promote social justice, and foster inclusive growth. By leveraging this momentum, the new administration can initiate structural changes that address immediate crises and lay the groundwork for a more equitable and resilient society.

The election also marks a significant shift in the political consciousness of the Sri Lankan people. By voting overwhelmingly for change, citizens have sent a clear message that they will no longer tolerate empty promises and exploitative politics. This newfound accountability will likely act as a check on the government, ensuring it remains focused on fulfilling its mandate.

Furthermore, the election has energized civil society, fostering a culture of activism and engagement that can serve as a vital partner in shaping the country’s future.

While the new government in Sri Lanka faces daunting challenges, it also has an unparalleled opportunity to redefine the country’s political and economic trajectory. Combining a strong mandate, widespread public support, and a collective demand for change creates a unique environment for meaningful reform. By addressing the economic crisis, restoring trust, and rebuilding infrastructure, the government has the chance to resolve the immediate issues and usher in an era of sustainable development and inclusive governance.

Proposals from the Opposition

As I highlighted in my earlier writings, the new government should actively consider and adopt the beneficial policies and programmes proposed by the Opposition to ensure inclusive and progressive governance. One notable example I previously emphasized was the digitalization of the economy, a transformative initiative that could significantly boost the country’s revenue. By leveraging modern technology and digital frameworks, Sri Lanka can create new income streams, streamline administrative processes, and attract foreign investments, which is critical for addressing the country’s pressing foreign debt crisis.

I am glad to see the government making positive strides toward digitalization, reflecting a dedication to modernization and economic reform. As an initial measure in the digitalization journey, I hope the government will digitalize identity cards, transforming them into multi-functional cards that can also serve as driver’s licenses, and bank account cards. However, the success of these efforts hinges on the administration’s ability to maintain transparency, accountability, and a steadfast dedication to the aspirations of the people who have placed their trust in them.

Digitalization, while promising, requires careful execution to avoid inefficiencies and ensure that its benefits are equitably distributed across all sectors of society. The government must foster an open dialogue with stakeholders, remain vigilant against corruption, and prioritize the public good over political interests. If executed with integrity and foresight, the digitalization initiative has the potential not only to alleviate immediate economic challenges but also to lay the foundation for long-term growth and prosperity in Sri Lanka.

The 2024 parliamentary election in Sri Lanka was not merely an electoral contest but a profound statement of the people’s desire for change. It highlighted the power of collective action in the face of adversity and underscored the importance of addressing economic and social justice issues in a meaningful way. The victory of the NPP/JVP, fueled by widespread public frustration and a call for accountability, marks a new chapter in Sri Lanka’s political history, one that offers both challenges and opportunities for the nation’s future.

I sincerely and fervently hope that the NPP/JVP government will rise to the occasion and effectively fulfill the monumental tasks entrusted to it by the people of Sri Lanka. Having secured a strong mandate in the 2024 election, the government now carries the immense responsibility of addressing the economic crisis, rooting out systemic corruption, and rebuilding trust in public institutions. This is a pivotal moment in the country’s history, offering an opportunity to break away from the cycles of inefficiency and inequality that have long hindered progress.

By implementing bold reforms and prioritizing the needs of the working class and marginalized communities, the NPP/JVP has the potential to deliver immediate relief and set Sri Lanka on a path of sustainable development and social equity. The hope remains that this administration will harness its mandate with determination and integrity, ensuring that the trust placed in it by the people is not in vain.