Genesis and Mission

"Shanthi Sena" units were innaugrated in 1978 by the Sarvodaya Shramadana President Dr. A.T. Ariyaratne in response to communal disturbances throughout Sri Lanka. An appeal was sent out to the Sarvodaya membership, and communities from all parts of the country to take effective measures to curb violence. There was a ready response. Thus Shanthi Sena, or the Peace Brigade, was born.
When conditions in the country returned to normal, Shanthi Sena Brigades remained. They re-focused their efforts to further the development process by encouraging a spirit of altruism and self-disipline.

Shanthi Sena an Autonomous Independent Unit

Shanthi Sena is a useful program for youths, who are attracted to the broad objectives and service oriented activities. It has attracted nearly 113,629 youths, forming over 9,835 units. Since Shanthi Sena is a People's Peace Organisation, members are trained to use non-violent means in reconciling conflicts. Membership is open to everyone over the age of fifteen. 

Vision

A just society through youth endowed with developed personality and political consciousness

Mission

Create a youth leadership endowed with political consciousness, correct attitudes about coexistence, setting sight on empowering the economy and by developing  leadership qualities suitable to take up future Sri Lanka

Strategic Direction

1. Create youth leadership through personality building
2. Create youth leaders with greater political consciousness
3. National reconciliation, inter-ethnic, inter-religious harmony and coexistence
4. Sustainable economy for youth