The Institute of National Security Studies (INSS), the premier national security think tank under the Ministry of Defence, successfully conducted a Public Lecture on “Security of a Nation: Evolving Threats and Holistic Approaches” on 16 September 2026 at the INSS Conference Hall. The session was delivered by Major General Wijendra Gunathilake (Retd). The event brought together officers of the Tri-Forces, representatives of distinguish think tanks and members of the Institute. The Director General of INSS, Major General Ranjan Wijedasa (Retd.), began the event by introducing the guest speaker to the audience.
During the session, the lecturer presented importance facts about the following key areas:
Importance of the Security of a Nation - Explained the relation between national security and human activities. Further, it was emphasized that the importance of national security, national values, significance of resources and national interest. Moreover, it was briefed about the understanding of public expectations and their ambitions when driving to draft a national security framework.
Gross National Power - Gross national power was described as the whole strength of a country which included the elements of power.
Importance of Economic Power - It was emphasized that the importance of the economic strength of a country in today’s context and how the developed countries gained the attention from the world due to their economic power. In addition to that it was mentioned that the national security is always subordinated with the international security. Moreover, it was mentioned about the evolving threats facing by Sri Lanka’s economic development due to brain drain, massive difference between export & imports and less availability in skilled labors. Further, it was emphasized that the importance of protecting the Sri Lankan brand name in export products rather tarnishing the image of the country by re-exporting the goods and services.
Three Pillars of a Nation - The guest lecturer described that Education, Law and Religion are as three pillars of a nation and its importance role in a country’s development and national security. Moreover, it was described the necessity of an education system in a country which may lead to inculcate the citizens with knowledge, intelligent, ethics and skill development.
Following the presentation, an interactive question and answer session was conducted with participants attending both physically and virtually.
