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🌍 International Human Rights Commission Marks Historic Identity Card Ceremony in Sri Lanka

Dawid Szablowski — Sat, 27 Sep 2025 16:32:57 +0000

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka – September 12, 2025 – 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 Szabłowski, 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 Lanka’s 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 – Humanitarian Mission of IHRC and its international support.
Mr. Rohan Muthumala (Lawyer & Unofficial Magistrate of Marawila) – Sri Lankan and International Civil Law in defence of human rights.
Dr. Jayaruwan Bandara (IHRC Regional Coordinator & Assistant Director, National Eye Hospital) – Leadership qualities for humanitarian activists.
Dr. Madhavi Bandara (IHRC Regional Coordinator & Senior Psychologist) – The humanitarian mission within human rights.
Dr. Grayson Jayawardena (Consultant Physician, Chilaw National Hospital) – Humanitarian response during national disasters.

Recognising Excellence

During the ceremony, five distinguished individuals were presented with the “Shri Hela Golden Award” 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 IHRC’s long-term commitment to Sri Lanka and the region.

“By empowering dedicated humanitarian activists, we are building a stronger foundation for justice, solidarity, and peace in Sri Lanka and beyond.” – IHRC statement.

Reported by:
Dr. Chrishantha JKM Dissanayake
Commissioner of Sri Lanka – IHRC Alliance
Investigative Journalist – IHRC News

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🌍 Dr. Adv. Arif Nasir Butt – A Distinguished Leader Bridging IHRC and SECI

Dawid Szablowski — Thu, 25 Sep 2025 16:23:10 +0000

National Council Member of SECI and IHRC Ambassador in India

New Delhi, India – September 2025

The International Human Rights Commission (IHRC Corporation) proudly announces a milestone achievement: Dr. Adv. Arif Nasir Butt, IHRC Ambassador in India, National President of IHRC (India), and Head of the IHRC Diplomatic Mission in India, has been nominated as National Council Member (NCM) of the Council for Promotion of Social Justice and Empowerment of India (SECI) – a prestigious body working under the aegis of the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India.

Dual Leadership – National and International Impact

Dr. Butt’s appointment to SECI represents not only a personal honour but also a reinforcement of IHRC’s global mission in India. His leadership now bridges two powerful platforms:

IHRC, advancing human rights, diplomacy, and international cooperation.
SECI, shaping national policies for social justice, equality, and empowerment.

Through this unique position, Dr. Butt is strategically placed to drive collaboration between India’s social development initiatives and IHRC’s global humanitarian mission.

Commitment to Justice and Equality

The nomination to SECI honours his lifelong dedication to:

protecting the rights of marginalized communities,
advocating for equality and dignity,
creating sustainable opportunities in education, livelihood, and social welfare.

As IHRC’s senior diplomat in India, Dr. Butt has consistently advanced dialogue between civil society, government institutions, and the international community, ensuring that India remains a vital voice in global human rights discourse.

Strengthening IHRC’s Presence in India

Under Dr. Butt’s leadership, IHRC India has grown into a recognised diplomatic and humanitarian mission, spearheading initiatives in awareness, advocacy, and direct support for vulnerable groups. His dual capacity now allows IHRC to align even closer with the Government of India’s vision for an inclusive society, amplifying the Commission’s impact and credibility.

A Symbol of Honour and Responsibility

This achievement reflects not only Dr. Butt’s dedication, but also the collective commitment of IHRC to nation-building, social transformation, and international solidarity. It highlights India’s role as a cornerstone in IHRC’s global architecture of human rights protection.

Author:
Dawid Szablowski
Editor-in-Chief & Publisher, IHRC News
Head of IHRC Press Department

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Cultural Symposium in Salamiyah Highlights Transitional Justice and Its Role in National ReconciliationSalamiyah – Hama

Dawid Szablowski — Sat, 30 Aug 2025 18:43:04 +0000

| August 28, 2025

As part of efforts to promote a culture of national dialogue and strengthen the principles of justice and accountability, Mr. Yahya Al-Amouri, the Commissioner of the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC) in Syria, organized a cultural symposium titled “Transitional Justice: The Philosophy of Change Between Accountability and Reconciliation”. The event took place in the city of Salamiyah, Hama Governorate, and was attended by human rights activists, civil society representatives, local dignitaries, and youth engaged in Syria’s democratic transformation and societal reconciliation.

The symposium delved into the concept of transitional justice as a key tool for rebuilding post-conflict societies. The discussion focused on essential elements of transitional justice, such as truth-seeking, reparations, and institutional reform. These mechanisms were discussed in the context of Syria’s unique situation, while also drawing from the experiences of other countries that have undergone similar processes.

In his speech, Mr. Al-Amouri emphasized that transitional justice is not merely about holding perpetrators accountable but also about building trust among Syrians. He stressed the need to find a delicate balance between justice and reconciliation to ensure a shared future based on human dignity and the rule of law.

The symposium also provided an opportunity to discuss key mechanisms such as truth-seeking, reparations, and institutional reform – critical pillars of transitional justice – highlighting the importance of learning from other countries’ experiences, while not neglecting Syria’s unique context.

The event was positively received by participants, who emphasized the importance of involving all segments of Syrian society in such dialogue to achieve fair and inclusive solutions.

Reporter: Ahmed Mowas
IHRC Press Journalist
IHRC – Syria

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🤝 High-Level Meeting Advances IHRC’s Mission in India

Dawid Szablowski — Wed, 02 Jul 2025 10:23:34 +0000

IHRC Delegation Engages with National Leaders and Celebrates Humanitarian Solidarity

Mumbai, India | 30 June 2025

A Day of Strategic Engagements and Recognition

The International Human Rights Commission (IHRC) continues to solidify its presence and influence across India through high-level diplomatic outreach and interfaith collaboration.
On 30 June 2025, an IHRC delegation led by H.E. Bishop Dr. Samsher Khan – IHRC Peace Ambassador, High Commissioner MNVC SMM IHRC, and IHRC Press Journalist – participated in a series of pivotal meetings in Mumbai, Maharashtra State.

Dialogue with National Leadership

Facilitated by Shri Mohan Pawar Patil, Speaker and Secretary of Mumbai Maharashtra State, the IHRC delegation had the distinct honour to meet:

Shri Sharad Pawar Ji, National President of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and former Chief Minister
Mrs. Supriya Sule, Member of Parliament (on the occasion of her birthday)

These encounters provided a platform for exchanging views on the advancement of human rights, social justice, and interfaith harmony in India.

“We express our gratitude to the Almighty for granting us this unique opportunity to further the mission of IHRC in the presence of such esteemed leaders.”

Acknowledging International and Institutional Support

Bishop Dr. Samsher Khan extended profound appreciation to his respected elder brother,
Prof. h.c. Rafał Marcin Wasik, Secretary-General & Chairperson (World Chairman) IHRC, Peacemaker,

“whose tireless leadership and unwavering support continue to open doors and enable our work at the highest levels.”

The delegation also recognised the contributions of:

Mehtab Rahmani (ZVC, IHRC India)
Aftab Rahmani (IHRC Volunteer, India)
All dedicated IHRC India team members, who together embody the Commission’s spirit of service and solidarity.

Interfaith Harmony and IHRC’s Mission

The meeting was an occasion to affirm IHRC’s commitment to promoting peace, tolerance, and human rights law throughout India and the wider region.
Bishop Dr. Khan underlined the importance of interfaith dialogue and cross-sectoral partnerships as foundational pillars of sustainable humanitarian action.

Special Appreciation to IHRC Leadership

Bishop Dr. Khan further conveyed heartfelt thanks to:

Prof. h.c. Rafał Marcin Wasik, Secretary-General & Chairperson (World Chairman) IHRC, Peacemaker
Dawid Szablowski, Head of IHRC Press Department

“Thank you for your visionary leadership and for empowering us to serve with honour and integrity on the global stage.”

Reported by:
H.E. Bishop Dr. Samsher Khan
IHRC Peace Ambassador, High Commissioner MNVC SMM IHRC
IHRC Press Journalist

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