Amidst a backdrop of robust government approval, Sri Lanka is experiencing a surge in optimism, according to a recent Verité Research poll. The survey, titled 'Mood of the Nation', reveals a significant shift in public sentiment, with a notable increase in economic confidence and overall satisfaction with the country's trajectory. The polling partner for this survey was Vanguard Survey (Pvt) Ltd.
The government's approval rating stands at an impressive 65%, a statistically significant rise from the 62% recorded a year prior. This positive trend is mirrored in the disapproval rating, which remains low and largely unchanged from February 2025. The poll's methodology, involving a ±3 percentage point margin of error, ensures the data's reliability.
A groundbreaking finding emerged as the poll's four-year history was analyzed: for the first time, more respondents rated the current economic conditions as 'good' or 'excellent' than those describing them as 'poor'. This shift in perception is a testament to the government's efforts in improving the economic outlook.
Public perceptions of the economic outlook have also improved notably. The proportion of respondents who believe the economy is 'getting better' rose to 64%, a significant increase from 55% a year ago. This positive sentiment is further emphasized by the fact that those who feel the economy is 'getting worse' remained largely unchanged, and the percentage of respondents with no opinion declined, indicating a more informed and positive public outlook.
These sentiments are encapsulated in the Economic Confidence Index, which ranges from -100 to +100. The latest survey recorded an index of +36, a sharp improvement from +14 a year earlier and the highest level in the poll's four-year history. This index is a comprehensive measure of public confidence in the economy.
Furthermore, 59% of respondents expressed satisfaction with the current state of affairs in the country, marking the first time in four years of polling that overall satisfaction has exceeded the 50% mark. This positive sentiment is a significant indicator of the public's trust in the government's leadership.
When evaluating the present administration against past governments, respondents gave the highest positive ratings for efforts to reduce drugs and crime, surpassing even measures to reduce corruption. This finding highlights the public's appreciation for the government's focus on critical societal issues.
The 'Mood of the Nation' poll, conducted regularly as part of Verité Research's Syndicated Surveys instrument, is designed to enrich macro-political briefings and provide valuable insights to clients. The instrument also allows other organizations to include survey questions, fostering a comprehensive understanding of public sentiment. The latest survey was based on a nationally representative, multi-stage, randomized sample of 1,048 Sri Lankan adults, conducted between January 24 and February 3, 2026, with a maximum sampling error margin of ±3.0 percentage points at a 95% confidence level.
