A call for professional dignity, political responsibility, and intelligent conflict resolution

The tragic death of Tusker Kawanthissa in Sri Lanka underscores the urgent need for professional accountability, political responsibility, and intelligent conflict resolution in wildlife conservation efforts. Wildlife veterinarians in the country operate in challenging conditions, often lacking essential support systems and recognition for the risks they face.

Internal conflicts and political negligence only exacerbate the already sensitive human-elephant conflict. The writer, a highly experienced veterinarian and academic, emphasizes that accountability must be paired with institutional responsibility, professional respect, and adequate resources. He urges stakeholders, including politicians, wildlife authorities, farmers, and conservationists, to adopt an intelligent, evidence-based approach to addressing these complex issues.

Instead of resorting to confrontation or public condemnation, he advocates for a collaborative effort to strengthen wildlife veterinary services, improve emergency response mechanisms, provide appropriate occupational protection, and support affected farming communities. By fostering respectful dialogue and cooperation, stakeholders can develop sustainable solutions that protect both wildlife veterinarians, farmers, and elephants without sacrificing any one group to political interests or institutional rivalries.

The tragedy of Kawanthissa should serve as a catalyst for reform, encouraging leadership, compassion, and collective responsibility in the pursuit of a safer and more harmonious future for all involved.