About Us
About Us
Together, We Create Change
The Institute of Social Development (ISD) is a non-governmental organization based in Kandy, Sri Lanka, established in 1991 by a group of activists committed to human rights, labour rights, gender equality and advocacy. ISD was founded in response to a long-standing concern: despite decades of development efforts in Sri Lanka, many marginalized communities continued to experience poverty, exclusion and limited opportunities to improve their lives.
For more than three decades, ISD has worked alongside communities to strengthen their voices, promote equal participation and support meaningful social change. Through its programmes, the organization seeks to empower people who are often excluded from decision-making processes and create opportunities for them to shape their own futures.
ISD’s work covers several key areas, including social inclusion and good governance, gender and political participation, peace and social harmony, health and education, environmental justice, and lobbying and advocacy for stronger policies and greater accountability.
Our Mission & Vision
Our Mission & Vision for a
Sustainable Future
Institute of Social Development was formed in 1991 with the mission of giving voice to the voiceless communities. This initiative was founded by a group of activists who engages in the field of human right, labor, gender, and advocacy. The group initiated a dialogue on measuring the impact of development activities implemented by various sectors including government and NGOs in the plantation sector since 1948. The findings indicated that there have been no major qualitative changes taking place in the lives of the plantation worker community.
The group concluded that unless the marginalized communities are not empowered to demand and defend their human rights, the outsiders cannot influence them for sustainable change. The Institute of Social Development has executed a wide range of awareness programmes to empower the marginalized plantation community since its inception.”
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Founded with a Purpose -
Global Outreach
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Proven Impact
Our Leaders
Executive Board Members
Meet the dedicated executive board members guiding ISD’s vision, strengthening its mission, and driving meaningful social change through leadership, integrity, and collective commitment.
OUR APPROACH
Turning Community Voices Into
Meaningful Social Change
ISD works alongside marginalized and vulnerable communities to strengthen their voices, protect their rights, and create opportunities for meaningful participation. Our approach combines community empowerment, advocacy, research, dialogue, and collective action to address social inequalities and build a more just and inclusive society.
Working for
Social Change
Community Centered Approach
We work closely with communities, ensuring their experiences, priorities, and voices remain at the heart of the initiatives and solutions we develop.
Community Centered Approach
We work closely with communities, ensuring their experiences, priorities, and voices remain at the heart of the initiatives and solutions we develop.
Community Centered Approach
We work closely with communities, ensuring their experiences, priorities, and voices remain at the heart of the initiatives and solutions we develop.
Testimonial
Real Clients Testimonial About
Econet Services
Jakulin Farna
UI Designer at — Dream IT
5.00
“ isd is a environmental organization maintaince dedicated to protecting planet through “
John D. Alexon
UI Designer at — Dream IT
5.00
“ isd is a environmental organization maintaince dedicated to protecting planet through “
Jakulin Farna
UI Designer at — Dream IT
5.00
“ isd is a environmental organization maintaince dedicated to protecting planet through “
Together, We Can Turn Change Into Lasting Impact
Your involvement can help build stronger, fairer, and more empowered communities.
