The Centre for Poverty Analysis (CEPA) was established in 2001 by nine Sri Lankan professionals working on poverty related issues. Founded with the intention of institutionalising poverty impact monitoring and poverty analysis within the Sri Lankan institutional landscape, the organisation was incorporated under Section 21 of the Companies Act as a company limited by guarantee. The catalyst for founding CEPA came from an assessment of the need for special emphasis on applied policy relevant advice. CEPA sought to fill this void by providing practice oriented services that were grounded in sound empirical research which responded to the needs of a constituency that included a variety of actors, such as,  state, non state, civil and community based organisations  and which was oriented for policy making in the development field. The establishment of CEPA was facilitated by the Poverty Impact Monitoring Unit (PIMU), which was supported by the German Agency for Technical Cooperation (GTZ).  Over the past 13 years, CEPA has succeeded in developing a body of knowledge on poverty to become the leading institution on poverty-related research in Sri Lanka. It has developed fresh and challenging perspectives on poverty; explored alternative dimensions; conducted in-depth analyses of specific poverty conditions; contributed to a better understanding of poverty in Sri Lanka and formulated policy initiatives to alleviate the multi-dimensional facets of poverty. CEPA has developed a research capacity with innovative research methodologies and practices. It has also contributed to a transfer of technology as CEPA’s researchers have worked with partners in different parts of the world while its services have been sought by numerous national and international organisations. CEPA’s research has been funded by international organisations, foreign donor agencies, NGOs and government agencies. Regardless of the funding body, it has not compromised on the integrity of its research. Further, in order to maintain its independence, CEPA has developed its own Development Fund to generate a capacity to carry out research of its own.

CEPA’s core belief is that poverty is an injustice that should be overcome and that overcoming poverty involves changing policies and practices nationally and internationally, as well as working with people in poverty.

Vision

A world in which decision-making, especially where it affects the lives and livelihoods of vulnerable women, men and children, seeks to eradicate poverty based on non-partisan, robust evidence.

Mission

To be a leading organisation providing independent analysis of poverty, and its multi-faceted manifestations, with a view to shaping policy and practice in Sri Lanka and the region.

CEPA Values

Respect: CEPA values the contribution of all those who participate in and contribute to CEPA’s work.  We respect the rights, dignity and potential of all those involved in our work.
Integrity: CEPA acts according to its mission – we are honest and transparent in what we do and say, and accountable for our collective and individual actions.  Our work will always be guided by the principles of balance, independence and impartiality.
Excellence: At CEPA, we constantly challenge ourselves to achieve the highest level of learning and performance in order to achieve greater impact and make a difference.
Collaboration: At CEPA, we are committed to continuously sharing our knowledge and engaging with a wide range of people and institutions in order to achieve our goals.
Flexibility: CEPA strives to be flexible and will adapt to and accommodate changing or extenuating circumstances in order to best meet its mission and objectives.