Demographics of Sri Lanka

The Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, formerly known as Ceylon, is an island nation in South Asia, located in the Indian Ocean, southeast of the Indian subcontinent. Its demographic composition is a reflection of its rich history, diverse cultures, and complex social structure. This article delves into the various facets that make up the demographics of Sri Lanka, including population density, ethnic groups, languages, and religious affiliations.

Population

As of the latest census, Sri Lanka's population is estimated to be over 21 million. The island exhibits a moderate level of population density, with significant concentrations in urban areas such as the capital city, Colombo, and other major cities like Kandy and Galle.

Ethnic Groups

Sri Lanka is home to several ethnic groups, the largest of which are the Sinhalese, who make up about 74% of the population. The Sri Lankan Tamils, primarily residing in the Northern and Eastern provinces, constitute approximately 11%. The Sri Lankan Moors, who are mostly Muslim, comprise around 9% of the populace. Other significant groups include the Indian Tamils and Burghers, alongside smaller communities of Sri Lankan Malays and Veddas, the indigenous people of Sri Lanka.

Languages

Sri Lanka recognizes Sinhala and Tamil as its official languages, with English serving as a link language for administration and business. Sinhala, an Indo-Aryan language, is predominantly spoken by the Sinhalese majority, while Tamil, a Dravidian language, is mainly used by the Tamil population and some Muslim communities. The linguistic diversity of Sri Lanka is a testament to its multifaceted cultural heritage.

Religion

In terms of religious composition, Sri Lanka is predominantly Buddhist, with approximately 70.2% of the population adhering to Theravada Buddhism, which plays a significant role in the country's cultural and social identity. Hinduism, practiced by 12.6% of the population, is primarily followed by the Tamil community. Islam, accounting for about 9.7%, is predominantly practiced by the Sri Lankan Moors. Additionally, Christianity, primarily of the Roman Catholic denomination, is followed by around 7.6% of the population.

Census in Sri Lanka

The census in Sri Lanka is conducted by the Department of Census and Statistics on a decennial basis. It serves as the primary source of data for evaluating the demographic trends and patterns within the country. The most recent census was held in 2012, and the subsequent census has been planned for the forthcoming years, although the exact timing has occasionally been affected by political and logistical challenges.