COLOMBO, Sri Lanka β September 12, 2025 β In a landmark event, the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC) held its first-ever Identity Card and Official Badge Issuing Ceremony for members in Sri Lanka. The celebration, hosted at the Sampath Hotel in Wennappuwa, welcomed 106 new humanitarian activists representing diverse backgrounds, united under the values of human dignity, equality, and justice.
A Vision of Global Humanitarian Action
The initiative was launched by Prof. h.c. Rafal Marcin Wasik, IHRC Secretary-General, Peacemaker and coordinated globally by Mr. Dawid SzabΕowski, Director of International Relations and Media. Together, they emphasised the role of Sri Lanka as a key partner in building a worldwide network of humanitarian activists.
Sri Lankaβs Leadership in Action
The recruitment and coordination of the first national group were led by Dr. Chrishantha Dissanayake, IHRC Commissioner and National Volunteer Coordinator. Addressing the new members, he underlined the mission of IHRC in Sri Lanka and the international solidarity that supports its growth.
Training and Capacity Building
The event combined the ceremonial presentation of ID cards and badges with a special training session, where distinguished experts shared insights:
- Dr. Chrishantha Dissanayake β Humanitarian Mission of IHRC and its international support.
- Mr. Rohan Muthumala (Lawyer & Unofficial Magistrate of Marawila) β Sri Lankan and International Civil Law in defence of human rights.
- Dr. Jayaruwan Bandara (IHRC Regional Coordinator & Assistant Director, National Eye Hospital) β Leadership qualities for humanitarian activists.
- Dr. Madhavi Bandara (IHRC Regional Coordinator & Senior Psychologist) β The humanitarian mission within human rights.
- Dr. Grayson Jayawardena (Consultant Physician, Chilaw National Hospital) β Humanitarian response during national disasters.
Recognising Excellence
During the ceremony, five distinguished individuals were presented with the βShri Hela Golden Awardβ for their exceptional contributions to humanitarian service.
Looking Ahead
The IHRC announced that the next welcoming ceremony for a new group of activists will be personally presided over by Prof. h.c. Rafael Wasik, underscoring IHRCβs long-term commitment to Sri Lanka and the region.
βBy empowering dedicated humanitarian activists, we are building a stronger foundation for justice, solidarity, and peace in Sri Lanka and beyond.β β IHRC statement.
βοΈ Reported by:
Dr. Chrishantha JKM Dissanayake
Commissioner of Sri Lanka β IHRC Alliance
Investigative Journalist β IHRC News
