The Snow Tigers: Future Prospects for the LTTE in Canada

With the conclusion of the civil war in Sri Lanka, one must wonder what will become of the remnants of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam in Canada (the "Snow Tigers"). I believe a number of scenarios are possible:

1) continuation of the struggle in Canada

This can take many forms, from continued fund-raising efforts (sending funds from Canada to help finance LTTE activities abroad), political activism in Canada to ensure public exposure to the issues facing Tamils in Sri Lanka, attacks on Sri Lankan targets within Canada (terrorism), and inter-communal violence (supporting tensions between Tamil and Sinhalese communities in Canada).

2) Reorganization into an organized crime syndicate

Canadian security services have long alleged that the LTTE in Canada has engaged in organized crime to fund its activities. With the main purpose of the organization lost and most of the leadership in Sri Lanka dispersed or neutralized, there is the possibility that the Snow Tigers will cease to send funds over-seas and will instead enrich themselves. Since the infrastructure for this activity is already in place, it only a matter of a change in attitude before this occurs. By following this path, the Snow Tigers be following in the foot-steps of the Mafia and Triads -- patriotic sects that turned to crime once their original purpose had been fulfilled or lost.

3) Reorganization into a political-community activist entity.

Basically, this scenario envisions that the Canadian LTTE will morph into something like the Black Panther Party or American Indian Movement. Political militancy, community activism, and illicit fundraising will continue, but will lessen and the energy and funds of the organization directed toward improving the Canadian Tamil community.

4) Splintering and dissolution

With the cause lost in Sri Lanka, many Snow Tigers could opt to quit the fight and integrate back into civil society.


It is difficult to say which course the Snow Tigers will take. The next few years will be crucial in determining which direction the organization will decide upon.