the real world.
Agora’s research programme examines the economic, political, technological and strategic forces shaping Sri Lanka, South Asia and the wider international system.
Rigorous in method.
Complex problems rarely fit neatly into one discipline.
Agora’s research architecture is intentionally broad, bringing together economics, governance, geopolitics, business, technology, law and strategic affairs.
Research centres will be developed progressively, allowing the Institute to build depth where it can make a meaningful contribution.
Each programme is expected to combine rigorous evidence, practical relevance and intellectual independence.
The Institute’s research programme will be built around interconnected centres addressing the most important policy questions of our time.
Research into economic growth, macroeconomic policy, monetary systems, public finance, trade and the institutional foundations of prosperity.
Independent analysis of power, diplomacy, security and strategic competition across the international system.
Research on institutional quality, public administration, democratic governance and the rule of law.
Research examining enterprise, investment, productivity, markets and the competitiveness of Sri Lanka’s economy.
Research on artificial intelligence, emerging technologies, digital transformation and the long-term forces reshaping society.
Developing future leaders through executive education, policy forums, dialogue and youth leadership programmes.
around Sri Lanka.
The geopolitical programme will examine the major powers, regional relationships and strategic developments affecting Sri Lanka and the Indian Ocean.
Regional security, economics and diplomacy.
China’s global and regional strategic role.
India’s economic and strategic influence.
Southeast Asia, trade and regional integration.
Energy, security and regional transformation.
Global leadership, alliances and strategic policy.
institutional boundaries.
Climate resilience, environmental policy, energy and sustainable development.
Legal frameworks, institutional design, governance and the rule of law.
National security, strategic affairs, resilience and emerging threats.
Regional integration, trade, connectivity and cooperation.
Markets, enterprise, property rights and institutional conditions for prosperity.
Technology, productivity, employment, skills and demographic change.
research.
Claims should be grounded in evidence and transparent reasoning.
Research conclusions should not be predetermined by political interests.
Research should help decision-makers understand real-world choices.
Serious ideas should be tested through constructive disagreement.
Identify an important and relevant policy question.
Gather data, literature, expertise and comparative evidence.
Test assumptions and develop independent analysis.
Subject findings to appropriate peer and expert review.
Take findings into public and policy discussion.
Explore Agora’s research programme, collaborate with our researchers or engage with our work.
Research Enquiries