Question deeply.
Agora exists to create a space where difficult questions can be examined without political instruction, ideological conformity or intellectual fear.
To be a leading international independent centre of excellence for research, strategic analysis and public policy, contributing to informed decision-making, stronger institutions and sustainable prosperity.
Agora advances evidence-based research and independent scholarship in economics, governance, international relations, geopolitics, public finance, technology, law and strategic affairs.
Open to ideas.
Agora is politically neutral and intellectually independent. Our purpose is not to defend a party, government, ideology or predetermined conclusion.
Research conclusions should emerge from inquiry, evidence and reason rather than political direction.
Researchers and contributors are free to challenge assumptions and approach questions from different intellectual traditions.
Respectful disagreement is considered a necessary part of serious intellectual work.
behind the work.
Agora’s values are intended to guide research, institutional conduct, public engagement and relationships with partners.
Follow evidence wherever it leads.
Be honest about evidence, uncertainty and limitations.
Pursue high standards in research and public work.
Ask difficult questions and challenge assumptions.
Evidence takes precedence over political preference.
Different views should be heard and tested.
Knowledge should ultimately serve society.
Understand Sri Lanka within a changing world.
“Evidence before ideology.”
Every serious policy question begins with uncertainty. Good research does not pretend that uncertainty does not exist; it measures it, tests it and communicates it.
Agora therefore seeks to distinguish facts from assumptions, evidence from opinion and analysis from advocacy.
Where evidence is incomplete, we say so. Where reasonable people can disagree, we make space for disagreement.
Bringing scholarship and research into practical public policy conversations.
Creating a bridge between evidence, policy choices and implementation.
Connecting enterprise experience with research on competitiveness and policy.
Ensuring public perspectives are part of serious institutional conversations.
Giving the next generation opportunities to question, learn and contribute.
Connecting Sri Lankan perspectives with international research and experience.
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