This report investigates Sri Lankan perceptions of the role of businesses in society, and businesses’ own perception of this role, including its potential in supporting social, economic and political development. It also explores if Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), as presently understood by businesses and the wider community, can be a useful entry point for the Sri Lanka’s private sector to contribute to peace. The study indicates that most Sri Lankans do not have a clear understanding of the role they wish businesses to play in society. The public is unclear whether businesses should only focus on profits or also engage in social issues. While slight majorities feel that businesses should do more for the social good, they are mistrustful of companies’ ability to handle this task and express fears that the private sector exploits consumers and destroys cultural values. The study reveals that businesses view their CSR practices as genuine gestures of giving, though the public views them as self-interested and only designed to win publicity for commercial motives.