This is a war of very narrow vested interests, fought in the name of the Sinhalese and Tamils, who are largely caught in the crossfire. Ethnic conflict in Sri Lanka is a lasting legacy of colonization, economic slavery and the exclusivist mindset. The Sinhalese and Tamil people have a long history together on this land. However, this is not to minimize the deep, fundamental and entrenched problems among the ethnic and religious groups in Sri Lanka. Although there is a long history of friendships and personal contacts among Sinhalese, Tamil and Muslim communities, there are also deep conflicts over power, power-sharing and minority rights.
History shows that ethnic conflicts can go on for decades, even centuries.
Even if the parties stop shooting, the war will go on in other forms. Ethnic war can only be transcended. Curing the conditions that lead to conflict can transcend ethnic conflict. If the fuel for ethnic conflict is lack and deprivation, the real solution for ethnic peace is a sustainable, spiritually balanced island that works for all. The Sarvodaya Peace Plan responds to both wars.