About Us
The Institute of Migration in Sri Lanka (IMSL) is a forward-looking, independent, non-political,
non-governmental, not-for-profit institution based in Colombo, operating at the intersection of
migration,
development, and public diplomacy.
Registered under the National Secretariat of Non-Governmental Organizations, Ministry Rural Development,
Social
Security and Community Empowerment as a national Non-Governmental Organization (NGO). IMSL was
established by a
group of professionals in 2025, and is based in Colombo, Sri Lanka
Our Work
Migration is inevitable. Migration happens whether governments plan for it or not. People move for
work, safety, education, and opportunity. When managed responsibly and inclusively, it becomes a
powerful driver of development, innovation, and global cooperation.
IMSL provides research, policy advocacy, migration governance, institutional reform and service
delivery for governments, international organizations, diaspora communities, migrants, and partners
to harness the full potential of migration for Sri Lanka 's growth and development. Our service
delivery centers on nurturing people-to-people engagement via the exchange of skills, knowledge, and
ideas that strengthen cross-border public diplomacy.
With a strong commitment to professionalism, integrity, and impact, IMSL aims to become a trusted
partner in shaping a future where migration is not just managed, but leveraged as a powerful driver
of inclusive and sustainable development. Our work ensures migration delivers lasting benefits for
individuals, communities, and the country, today and for future generations.
Our Vision
To be Sri Lanka's leading center of excellence on migration, international mobility and diaspora engagement, advancing sustainable national development through knowledge, innovation, partnerships and global cooperation.
Our Mission
To serve as Sri Lanka's national bridge institution for migration, international mobility and diaspora engagement by promoting evidence-based policy, innovative programs, strategic partnerships and public diplomacy that advance sustainable national development.
Our Objectives
We work to create meaningful connections between migration, development, and international cooperation. Our objectives are centered on promoting responsible migration, empowering diaspora communities, and advancing initiatives that contribute to sustainable development and international collaboration.
Promote safe, orderly and responsible migration while facilitating international mobility that contributes to Sri Lanka's sustainable economic and social development.
Promote Sri Lanka as a destination for international students, skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, investors, volunteers and visitors, fostering knowledge exchange, investment, innovation and global engagement.
Mobilize the skills, expertise, knowledge, professional networks and philanthropic contributions of Sri Lankan diaspora communities to support inclusive national development and nation-building.
Strengthen mutual understanding, trust and long-term relationships between Sri Lanka, its diaspora and global communities through educational exchange, cultural engagement and collaborative initiatives.
Facilitate the exchange of ideas, research, innovation, skills and best practices between Sri Lanka and international partners to support evidence-based development and lifelong learning.
Provide research, policy development, technical assistance, advisory services and institutional capacity-building to governments, international organizations and other stakeholders to strengthen migration governance and policy coherence.
Develop and sustain partnerships with governments, international organizations, diplomatic missions, academia, civil society and the private sector to advance migration, mobility and sustainable development
Uphold independence, professionalism, transparency, inclusivity and respect for human rights in all programs and partnerships.