Restoring livelihoods and hope in Northern Sri Lanka

In honor of World Refugee Day, we honor the strength of displaced communities rebuilding their lives after war.

For decades, families in Annivelunthan village, nestled along Sri Lanka’s northern coast, lived in the shadow of war. Located in Kilinochchi District, this once-thriving fishing community of 10,000 people was devastated by conflict and displacement. Between 1990 and 2009, entire generations were forced to flee, seeking shelter in temporary camps, unsure if they would ever return home.

One of those families was Sathyapillai Jesudasan, now 56, who lives with his wife Yogeswari and their four children. Fishing runs in Jesudasan’s blood—he began learning the trade as a boy alongside his father. Before the war, he owned a wooden boat and earned a stable living. His land, abundant with cinnamon and coconut trees, provided income and nourishment. But everything changed during the final years of fighting. The family lost their home, their livelihood, and the sense of safety they once knew.

Even after returning in 2010, danger lingered. Landmines and unexploded ordnance littered the coastline and fields. Like many, Jesudasan was left with an impossible choice: risk injury or lose his livelihood. So he returned to the sea, navigating both waves and the uncertainty of what lay beneath the sand.

That changed in 2021.

Thanks to the generosity of HALO’s supporters, HALO launched clearance operations in Annivelunthan in 2021. The impact has been profound. With beaches and farmland now declared safe, families have a new sense of freedom. Jesudasan fishes without fear, and on good days, he and his son bring home more than 65 pounds of catch. His coconut trees—over 300 of them—are now fruiting, providing a second source of income.

His children’s futures are brighter, too. Two have gone on to university, while his youngest is married and thriving. He says the demining work has not only made life safer, but also restored the confidence of the entire community.

Across the village, signs of renewal are everywhere. Farmers are returning to their fields. Local businesses are reopening. Community spaces once off-limits are now alive with celebrations—from church services to cultural festivals.

In honor of World Refugee Day, we celebrate the resilience of families like Jesudasan’s—and the power of safe land to bring people home.