🌍 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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🌱 International Human Rights Commission and Sri Hela Cultural Foundation Launch Ambitious Tree Planting Project in Sri Lanka

Dawid Szablowski — Tue, 05 Aug 2025 20:35:50 +0000

Aiming for 100,000 Saplings in Support of Climate Neutrality by 2050

Ratnapura District, Sri Lanka – 11 July 2025

IHRC and Sri Hela Foundation Unite for Environmental Action

The International Human Rights Commission (IHRC), in partnership with the Sri Hela Cultural Cooperation Foundation, has officially launched a large-scale tree planting initiative in Sri Lanka. The project, which commenced on 11 July 2025 in Diyahondawewa village, Kuruwita Divisional Secretariat, Ratnapura District, aims to plant 100,000 saplings as a concrete step toward combating climate change and fostering environmental stewardship. The initiative aligns with the European Climate Agreement’s target of achieving climate neutrality by 2050.

Leadership and Community Engagement

The project operates under the direct supervision of Dr. Chrishantha Dissanayake, Commissioner for Sri Lanka at the International Human Rights Commission. Titled “Let’s Plant a Sapling to Give the Future Generation a Breath,” the programme will gradually expand to other regions of Sri Lanka.
Mr. Anura Witarana, IHRC Zonal Coordinator, has been appointed Chairman of the project and will lead its day-to-day execution and community mobilisation.

“Human rights are not just a legal matter. The International Human Rights Commission stands for all human rights, and we are at the forefront of world peace and humanitarian missions. We will step forward and assist in such humanitarian missions at any moment.”
— Dr. Chrishantha Dissanayake, Commissioner, IHRC Sri Lanka / Founder and Chairman, Sri Hela Cultural Cooperation Foundation

Broad Participation and Recognition

The launch event was attended by key figures, including Dr. Dissanayake (also Founder/Chairman/Director-General of the Sri Hela Cultural Foundation), the Divisional Secretary of Kuruwita, the Officer-in-Charge of Kuruwita Police, regional and zonal IHRC coordinators, volunteers, and representatives of Diyahondawewa village – including the Grama Niladhari, a development officer, farmer’s society officials, and local villagers.
Notable participants included: Mr. S. Prabakar, Mr. Anura Vitharana, Mr. Udara Rathnayake, Mr. Vihaga Deshapriya, Mrs. Nisansala Wijekoon, Mrs. Dilki Saumya, Mr. Sarath Kumara, and others.

As a mark of appreciation, all participants received official certificates signed by Prof. Rafael Wasik, Secretary of the International Human Rights Commission, and Dr. Chrishantha Dissanayake.

A Commitment to Future Generations

This tree planting initiative reflects IHRC’s belief that environmental protection is a fundamental human right and a pillar of global peace and sustainable development. By engaging communities, authorities, and civil society, IHRC and the Sri Hela Cultural Foundation aim to leave a lasting legacy for future generations.

Reported by:

Anura Vitharana
Zonal Volunteer Coordinator – IHRC Sri Lanka

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Rafael Wasik - ihrc.news