This briefing note documents the findings of an investigation carried out by Verité Research on the administrative gaps within Sri Lanka’s disaster management framework. The investigation was conducted using the instrument of Right to Information (RTI).

The study specifically looked into the functions of the National Council for Disaster Management (NCDM), which is the apex body responsible for disaster management in Sri Lanka.

The investigation found two key administrative failures in the NCDM: 1) It did not convene to make decisions as required; and 

2) It neglected its critical responsibilities.

The lessons from this case study suggest that these types of administrative failures are not unique to disaster management but might be a systematic feature of the current public sector.