By Ms. Azusa Kubota, Resident Representative, UNDP in Sri Lanka
In an era defined by rapid technological advancement, Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) is
emerging as a transformative force for economies worldwide. As Sri Lanka spearheads its
digital transformation journey, the recently concluded Sri Lanka DPI Summit 2025, led by the
Ministry of Digital Economy, with partners like UNDP and ADB, marks a significant milestone,
reaffirming the nation’s commitment to inclusive digital development. DPI offers the foundation
for an efficient and transparent digital economy—yet its implementation must be carefully
navigated to ensure inclusivity, security, and long-term sustainability.
Why DPI Matters
DPI consists of core digital systems—such as digital identity, payments, and data exchange
platforms—that serve as the backbone of modern economies. Countries like India and Estonia
have demonstrated how well-designed DPI can foster innovation, enhance governance, and
expand economic participation. For Sri Lanka, which is rebuilding from recent socio-economic
challenges, DPI presents an opportunity to drive financial inclusion, improve public service
delivery, and unlock new economic pathways.
Digital is no longer a luxury; it is a critical enabler of growth, governance, and social progress.
DPI streamlines government services, reducing bureaucratic inefficiencies and making essential
services—from healthcare to education—more accessible. Beyond governance, DPI fuels
economic dynamism by providing a level playing field for businesses, particularly micro, small,
and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Entrepreneurs can more easily formalize their businesses,
access credit, and reach new markets. This is particularly attractive as Sri Lankan economies
struggles to expand women’s participation. Moreover, digital ecosystems enhance transparency,
curbing corruption through real-time monitoring and secure transactions.
However, these benefits come with risks. Poorly designed DPI can widen the digital divide
between the rich and poor, urban and rural, and men and women, leaving marginalized
communities without access. Centralized systems raise concerns about data privacy and
cybersecurity, making them potential targets for cyberattacks and surveillance. Without strong
regulatory safeguards, DPI could become a tool for exclusion rather than empowerment.
The Need for Safeguards and Inclusive Governance
Safeguards must be embedded from the outset to ensure DPI remains a force for equity and
trust. Privacy-by-design principles should be non-negotiable, incorporating encryption,
anonymization, and robust data governance policies. Cybersecurity must be prioritized, with
stringent security standards and continuous audits to counter cyber threats. Furthermore, DPI
governance must be inclusive—ensuring that civil society, regulators, and the private sector
collaboratively establish frameworks that uphold digital rights and fair competition.
Sri Lanka must also focus on strengthening last-mile connectivity to ensure DPI benefits every
citizen, from urban centers to remote villages. Consider the transformative impact of digital
payment platforms that have empowered small businesses or digital identity systems that
streamline access to healthcare and social protection. These systems must be accessible,
inclusive, and designed with local needs in mind.
Accelerating DPI Adoption in Sri Lanka
The path forward requires decisive action. Governments must take the lead in establishing clear
policy and regulatory frameworks that provide direction and certainty for DPI development.
Public-private partnerships can mobilize investments and expertise to ensure DPI remains both
innovative and scalable. Digital literacy and capacity-building initiatives are equally crucial to
empowering citizens to navigate and benefit from digital systems.
Interoperability should be a guiding principle, allowing DPI to align with global standards and
facilitate cross-border digital integration. Sustainable financing models—combining public funds,
donor support, and private-sector investment—will be essential, particularly for lower-income
communities.
A People-Centric Digital Future
At the heart of Sri Lanka’s digital transformation are its people. DPI is not just about
infrastructure; it is about ensuring that every citizen can participate meaningfully in the digital
economy. The true value of DPI lies in its ability to empower individuals with the tools and
opportunities needed to thrive. Investments in digital literacy, innovation, and capacity building
must be prioritized, ensuring that no one is left behind.
Sri Lanka’s digital journey is anchored in national priorities and a commitment to sustainability.
The Sri Lanka DPI Summit was more than an event—it was a declaration of ambition. As we
move forward, collaboration between the government, international partners like UNDP, the
private sector, and civil society will be critical. By working together, we can build a digital future
that is inclusive, resilient, and transformative for all Sri Lankans.