Secretary-General IHRC Prof. Rafał Marcin Wasik - ihrc.news

IHRC Corporation Ambassador Duru Hezekiah Brings Direct Humanitarian Support to Vulnerable Families in Abakaliki

Dawid Szablowski — Thu, 20 Nov 2025 14:58:50 +0000

Abakaliki, Ebonyi State — Residents of the Abakaliki metropolis awoke on Tuesday to an act of humanitarian compassion that quickly resonated across the community. The Head of Diplomatic Mission of the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC Corporation) in Nigeria, H.E. Ambassador Dr. Duru Hezekiah, personally led an unannounced early-morning outreach, delivering food supplies and direct financial assistance to vulnerable residents across inner streets and market corridors.

A widely circulated video from the scene shows the Ambassador walking through narrow lanes, stopping to meet widows, roadside traders, young artisans, elderly individuals, and displaced families. His approach was simple, unceremonial, and profoundly human: direct engagement, listening to personal struggles, and offering immediate relief.

A Humanitarian Gesture That Surprised the City

The outreach, carried out with no publicity, security display, or media preparation, was described by locals as “deeply moving and unexpected.” Many residents observed that such hands-on involvement by a senior diplomatic officer is uncommon in Nigeria’s humanitarian landscape, where interventions are often mediated through large delegations or administrative channels.

Witnesses spoke of emotional moments as people received help without prior registration or screening processes. One beneficiary shared:

“Nobody told us this was happening. He just came, greeted us, and blessed us. This kind of kindness is rare from people in high positions.”

For many in Abakaliki, the Ambassador’s presence was more than a distribution of goods—it became a symbol of empathy, dignity, and leadership that recognises the lived realities of everyday hardship.

A Consistent Pattern of Field-Based Leadership

Over recent months, IHRC Nigeria under Ambassador Duru’s leadership has demonstrated a clear shift toward proactive humanitarian diplomacy, characterised by direct field engagement, rapid-response missions, and the prioritisation of vulnerable populations.

Notable initiatives include:

Child protection interventions in Rivers State,
Monitoring missions in correctional centres across Imo and Delta States,
School compliance and safety audits in Ondo State,
International engagements on Nigeria’s religious freedom concerns,
Community-level mediation and reporting on human rights violations across multiple regions.

These efforts reflect a paradigm within IHRC Nigeria that emphasises visible presence, accountability, and leadership by example. Tuesday’s outreach in Ebonyi State strengthens this trajectory.

Humanitarian Leadership Rooted in Proximity and Empathy

In an era where communities often experience institutional distance, the Abakaliki outreach stands as a reminder that effective human rights work requires more than policy declarations. It demands proximity—entering the streets, listening to the voices of the marginalised, and demonstrating compassion through concrete action.

Ambassador Duru’s approach aligns with IHRC’s organisational ethos that humanitarianism must be accessible, people-centered, and unbureaucratic. By stepping into the community personally, he reaffirmed the principle that dignity and hope can be restored through leadership that chooses presence over protocol.

A Moment That Will Not Be Forgotten

Residents who witnessed the outreach described it as “life-changing,” not only because food and financial support were provided, but because the intervention restored a sense of visibility to individuals who often feel forgotten. For many, the Ambassador’s gesture served as a reminder that humanitarian action—when guided by sincerity—has the power to uplift, inspire, and transform.

The International Human Rights Commission continues to stand with vulnerable communities in Nigeria, reinforcing a commitment to service that is both principled and deeply human.

Reporter:
Fidelis Onakpoma
IHRC Head of Media and Strategic Communications Nigeria

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IHRC Corporation Applauds DCC Richard Egbede for Upholding Human Rights Standards at Warri Custodial Centre

Dawid Szablowski — Mon, 17 Nov 2025 16:23:27 +0000

Warri, Nigeria — The International Human Rights Commission – IHRC Corporation in Nigeria has formally commended the Deputy Controller of Corrections (DCC) at the Warri Medium Security Custodial Centre, Mr. Richard Egbede, for his exemplary adherence to international human rights principles and reform-driven leadership within the correctional system.

The recognition follows an independent monitoring mission conducted by the South South Regional Coordinator of the IHRC Special Monitoring Mission (SMM), Comrade Fidelis Onakpoma, as part of IHRC’s ongoing nationwide assessments of human rights compliance in custodial facilities.

The mission was initiated under the directive of H.E. Ambassador Dr. Duru Hezekiah, Ambassador-at-Large and Head of Diplomatic Mission of IHRC in Nigeria, and supervised by the SMM National Coordinator, Engr. Comrade Elijah Vitus Echendu, highlighting IHRC’s long-standing institutional partnership with the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS).

Commendation for Reform-Oriented and People-Centred Leadership

Leading the IHRC delegation, Comrade Francis Uwa, IHRC SMM Official for Delta State, praised DCC Egbede for cultivating a management culture that balances discipline, rehabilitation, and respect for human dignity.

He noted that the Warri facility reflects “an environment where correction and compassion coexist in line with global standards.”

Comrade Uwa further described DCC Egbede as:

“An exemplary officer whose conduct aligns with the IHRC’s mission of advancing justice, fairness, and humane treatment for all inmates. Our visit to Warri confirms that Nigeria has officers who uphold integrity and professionalism even in challenging environments.”

IHRC Leadership Highlights National Significance

SMM National Coordinator Engr. Comrade Elijah Vitus Echendu emphasized that the Warri visit demonstrates IHRC’s proactive strategy to strengthen human rights accountability within correctional centres.

He stated:

“The efforts of DCC Richard Egbede reflect the transformation we envision across Nigeria’s correctional system. He represents a generation of officers who view correctional service as service to humanity, not punishment.”

Endorsing the field report, H.E. Ambassador Dr. Duru Hezekiah commended the leadership of the Nigerian Correctional Service for fostering an environment where officers such as Egbede can uphold professionalism and compassion.

According to Ambassador Duru:

“The International Human Rights Commission remains steadfast in partnering with the Nigerian government to reinforce the human rights framework within correctional facilities. IHRC will continue to support reform-minded officers whose work strengthens justice and human dignity.”

Role of NCoS and Next Steps in Nationwide Monitoring

IHRC also acknowledged the Controller-General of the Nigerian Correctional Service and the Delta State Controller of Corrections for cultivating institutional conditions that promote accountability, transparency, and rehabilitation-based corrections.

As part of its national mandate, IHRC announced plans to broaden its monitoring and partnership missions to correctional centres across the country, contributing to a stronger human rights culture and improved inmate rehabilitation.

This mission forms part of IHRC’s flagship Correctional Human Rights Strengthening Project (CHRSP) — a long-term initiative to support humane correctional practices and structural reforms throughout Nigeria.

Reported by:
Fidelis Onakpoma
Head of Media and Strategic Communications IHRC Nigeria

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IHRC Corporation and Sri Hela Cultural Cooperation Foundation Deliver Nationwide Training for Pre-School Teachers in Sri Lanka, Strengthening the Right to Quality Education

Dawid Szablowski — Fri, 14 Nov 2025 20:20:22 +0000

Baddhegama, Southern Province, Sri Lanka – 10 August 2025

The International Human Rights Commission (IHRC Corporation), in strategic partnership with the Sri Hela Cultural Cooperation Foundation (SHCCF), has successfully conducted a comprehensive training programme for pre-school teachers across the Southern Province of Sri Lanka. The initiative forms part of a broader island-wide campaign titled “Quality Education and the Child”, dedicated to advancing early childhood education and promoting the fundamental right to education as enshrined in Article 26 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR).

The training was held at the Baddhegama Pradeshiya Sabha Auditorium, organised upon the official invitation of the Southern Provincial Ministry of Education. The programme brought together pre-school educators from municipal and local council institutions operating within the Baddhegama Divisional Secretariat.

Promoting the Child’s Right to Education and Well-Being

The workshop emphasised that access to quality early childhood education is a core human right, essential to the holistic development of every child. Trainers highlighted several priority areas aligned with IHRC’s global educational mandate:

Recognising individual child capacities and developmental needs, ensuring that no child is left behind regardless of socio-economic background or learning differences.
Implementing child-centred, inclusive pedagogical methods, consistent with international standards for early childhood development (ECD).
Fostering safe, supportive, and nurturing learning environments, in line with the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC).
Strengthening the professional capacity of pre-school educators, empowering them to serve as frontline actors in protecting and promoting human rights through education.

This initiative directly contributes to Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4): Quality Education, with a particular focus on equitable access to early learning and teacher training.

Leadership, Coordination and Key Participants

The programme was coordinated by Mrs. Madhavi Bandara, IHRC Regional Coordinator and Consultant at the Sri Hela Higher Education Academy, demonstrating IHRC’s operational commitment to education at the grassroots level.

A keynote address on behalf of both IHRC and SHCCF was delivered by
Mrs. Chandani Subasinghe, National Coordinator of the Early Childhood Development Project, who stressed the importance of aligning local pre-school systems with global human rights and educational standards.

The event gathered an eminent group of stakeholders, educators and institutional representatives, including:

Mrs. Madhavi Bandara, IHRC Regional Coordinator & Consultant, Sri Hela Higher Education Academy
Mrs. Chandrani Gunasinghe
Mr. Vihanga Dayawansa
Mrs. Nilanthi Hettiarachchi
Representatives of the United Nations Association of Sri Lanka, including
- Dr. Ravi Naggarajah
- Mrs. Wanchali Rathnayake

Their presence highlighted a unified commitment to strengthening early childhood education across Sri Lanka through cooperation among civil society, educational institutions and human rights bodies.

Advancing IHRC’s Educational Mission in Sri Lanka

Through this programme, IHRC Corporation underscores its long-standing global mission to:

Promote universal access to education, without discrimination;
Support governments and local partners in strengthening educational systems;
Empower teachers as essential contributors to human rights protection;
Build sustainable frameworks for child development and wellbeing.

The event in Baddhegama is one of several nationwide activities planned under the IHRC–SHCCF partnership, aiming to elevate teaching standards and ensure that every child in Sri Lanka benefits from an inclusive, rights-based educational environment.

Reported by:

Dr. Chrishantha Dissanayake
Commissioner – Sri Lanka, International Human Rights Commission
Investigative Journalist – IHRC Alliance

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🇳🇬 IHRC Calls for Decisive Diplomatic and Security Action to Safeguard Nigeria’s Global Reputation

Dawid Szablowski — Tue, 04 Nov 2025 20:30:33 +0000

President Trump’s remarks should inspire Nigeria to act decisively in protecting its citizens and rebuilding international trust

ABUJA, Nigeria — November 2025.
The International Human Rights Commission (IHRC Corporation) has urged the Federal Government of Nigeria to treat recent remarks by U.S. President Donald J. Trump on the country’s security crisis as a call for urgent leadership and constructive engagement — not as an attack on the nation’s image.

In a statement endorsed by Prof. h.c. Rafal Marcin Wasik, IHRC Corporation Secretary-General, Peacemaker, the Commission emphasised that Nigeria’s current challenges demand unity, responsible governance, and immediate international coordination to prevent further humanitarian tragedy.

“When human life is endangered, silence is not neutrality — it is neglect,” said Prof. h.c. Rafal Marcin Wasik, IHRC Corporation Secretary-General, Peacemaker. “Nigeria’s leadership must rise above political divisions to protect all citizens equally and to demonstrate to the world that Africa’s largest democracy stands firm for peace, human dignity, and justice.”

President Trump reportedly described the escalating violence and targeted killings in parts of Nigeria as “acts of genocide”, prompting intense global debate. The IHRC stated that while such remarks may appear harsh, they should be interpreted as a wake-up call for decisive action rather than an affront to the nation’s image.

IHRC: Leadership must turn criticism into action

Through its Ambassador-at-Large and Head of Mission in Nigeria, H.E. Ambassador Dr. Hezekiah Duru, the Commission reaffirmed that even criticism, when rooted in humanitarian concern, should serve as a catalyst for reflection and reform.

“Innocent Nigerians — Christians, Muslims, and those of no faith — continue to suffer death, displacement, and trauma as a result of terrorism and armed banditry,” Ambassador Duru stated. “The Government must act decisively to prevent deeper diplomatic mistrust and further national trauma.”

The IHRC underlined that persistent insecurity across the North, Middle Belt, and South East exposes critical gaps in citizen protection. It urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to view President Trump’s remarks as a challenge to rebuild public confidence and restore Nigeria’s global standing.

Diplomatic engagement and institutional reform

The Commission encouraged Nigeria’s newly appointed security chiefs to adopt intelligence-driven, preventive strategies, warning that waiting for attacks before responding only deepens instability.

“You cannot sleep under a burning roof and expect to wake up whole,” the IHRC noted. “The time to act is now — before isolated violence hardens into a national crisis.”

It called for strengthened collaboration with the United States, the European Union, the United Nations, ECOWAS, and the African Union, stressing that coordinated diplomacy is essential to confronting terrorism and displacement.

“Diplomatic silence during global scrutiny may be mistaken for indifference,” the Commission warned. “Transparent dialogue with allies will reaffirm Nigeria’s commitment to peace and human rights.”

Proposal for a High-Level Diplomatic Advisory Council

To enhance credibility and trust, IHRC proposed the establishment of a High-Level Diplomatic Advisory Council, composed of senior statesmen, jurists, and international relations experts. Such a council, the Commission stated, would guide Nigeria’s strategic engagement with global partners and demonstrate its seriousness in rebuilding national and international confidence.

Human rights and constitutional guarantees

The Commission reminded that Section 38(1) of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution — alongside the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948) and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) — guarantees freedom of thought, conscience, and religion.

“These must remain living principles, not dormant clauses,” the statement read, noting that unchecked terrorism and kidnappings continue to undermine national stability and trust abroad.

Ambassador Duru reaffirmed that Nigeria must lead its own rescue mission through stronger institutions, interfaith dialogue, transparent governance, and a renewed commitment to the sanctity of human life.

“The world is watching,” he said. “Inaction only fuels misinformation and external interference.”

A message from the IHRC Corporation Secretary-General

Prof. h.c. Rafal Marcin Wasik, IHRC Corporation Secretary-General, Peacemaker, reiterated the Commission’s readiness to cooperate with Nigerian authorities and international allies, stressing that IHRC’s mission is one of partnership, not criticism.

“Our role is to strengthen nations in crisis, not to judge them. Nigeria’s strength lies in its unity and moral courage to act when peace and justice are at risk,” he stated.

A call for unity and decisive action

IHRC reaffirmed its ongoing commitment to peacebuilding, humanitarian assistance, and human rights monitoring across Nigeria.

“A tree does not stand alone in the storm,” the statement concluded. “Unity — the lifeblood of our nation — is now under threat. Nigeria’s destiny as Africa’s democratic leader depends on its courage to protect its citizens and restore peace. The time for decisive action is now.”

Reported by: Fidelis Onakpoma
IHRC Head of Media and Strategic Communications Nigeria

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🇮🇳 Felicitations Ceremony in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar: Appointment of Mr. M.A. Shakeel as Volunteer of the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC Corporation)

Dawid Szablowski — Mon, 03 Nov 2025 21:07:05 +0000

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra (India)

The International Human Rights Commission (IHRC Corporation) continues to expand its humanitarian footprint across India through its Special Monitoring Mission (SMM) — a global network of volunteers dedicated to the promotion and protection of human rights.

A felicitation ceremony was recently held in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, where Mr. Chishty Azharuddin, Commissioner of IHRC India, officially appointed Mr. M.A. Shakeel as a Volunteer of the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC Corporation).

During the ceremony, Mr. Azharuddin presented Mr. Shakeel with his official IHRC Volunteer Certificate and Identification Card, formally welcoming him into the Special Monitoring Mission network of the IHRC Corporation.

This appointment was made under the leadership and guidance of Prof. h.c. Rafał Marcin Wasik, IHRC Corporation Secretary-General & Peacemaker, and Dawid Szabłowski, Ambassador-at-Large, Director of International Relations & Media. The event was further supported by Dr. Shamsher Khan, MNVC Peace Ambassador, and Dr. Arif Bhatt, Ambassador IHRC India.

The Special Monitoring Mission (SMM) plays a pivotal role in the IHRC Corporation’s humanitarian agenda. Its volunteers work tirelessly to combat violence against women, promote peace and justice, provide access to free legal support, and assist underprivileged communities through education and social welfare initiatives.

In his address, Commissioner Chishty Azharuddin emphasised the spirit of service and unity at the heart of IHRC Corporation’s mission, stating:

“Serving humanity is the true essence of the IHRC’s mission. We encourage youth and citizens to come forward and join this noble initiative to promote peace, justice, and equality in society.”

The ceremony concluded with expressions of congratulations and best wishes to Mr. M.A. Shakeel from attendees and community members, who commended his commitment to human rights, social welfare, and community service.

Article prepared by
Mr. Chishty Azharuddin
Commissioner & Investigative Journalist, IHRC India

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Côte d’Ivoire Strengthens Its Climate Commitment – Presentation of CDN 3.0 and Preparations for COP30 in Belém

Dawid Szablowski — Fri, 31 Oct 2025 12:39:00 +0000

Abidjan, October 30, 2025 – Auditorium of the Prime Minister’s Office, Republic of Côte d’Ivoire

An official ceremony was held in Abidjan for the presentation of the Nationally Determined Contribution (CDN 3.0) and the pre-departure event of the Ivorian delegation to COP30 in Belém, Brazil.
The event brought together government representatives, local authorities, academics, civil society organisations, private sector actors, and international partners.

It reaffirmed Côte d’Ivoire’s determination to advance global climate goals and sustainable development.
Among the participants were members of the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC Corporation), who actively support environmental protection, social solidarity, and human rights initiatives across the region.

The event was reported by Mr Vamara Fofana – IHRC Commissioner & Journalist (Côte d’Ivoire), representing the International Human Rights Commission during the ceremony.

An Integrated Approach to Climate Action

Following the welcoming remarks, speakers from key institutions and international organisations underlined Côte d’Ivoire’s integrated approach to climate governance and ecological transition.

Dr Éric Michel Assamoi, UNFCCC National Focal Point, presented the progress made in preparing Côte d’Ivoire’s participation at COP30.
He stressed the importance of ambition and tangible action, announcing that the national delegation, led by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, will operate a 100 m² national pavilion in Belém dedicated to climate and innovation projects.

Local Governments and the Private Sector as Pillars of CDN 3.0 Implementation

Mr. Gueu Dienot Gilles, Vice-President of ARDCI (San Pedro Zone), emphasised the need for coordinated local government action in implementing national climate policies.
He highlighted the public-private partnership model as a cornerstone of sustainable action and reaffirmed the commitment of local authorities to the national climate agenda.

Mr. Salah Ben Sedikh, Vice-President of UNEMAF and representative of the private sector (CGECI), underlined that private sector engagement must be concrete, measurable, and consistent with sustainability principles.
He called for the full implementation of Article 6.4 of the COP framework, ensuring the long-term credibility of international commitments, and urged collective mobilisation founded on responsibility and shared purpose.

Civil Society Engagement and Women’s Inclusion

Ms. Boussouf Bintou, representing civil society organisations (CSOs), praised the active participation of civil society and women in drafting the CDN 3.0 document.
She highlighted the integration of human rights and gender equality principles in the national strategy and advocated for fairer financial mechanisms between Northern and Southern countries, in line with global solidarity principles.

The Contribution of the International Community

Ms. Blerta Cela, UN Resident Representative in Côte d’Ivoire, reminded participants that Africa accounts for only 4% of global greenhouse gas emissions, yet suffers disproportionately from the effects of climate change.
She commended the country’s consistent progress since 2015 and described the CDN 3.0 as inclusive, transparent, and inspiring.
She also noted Côte d’Ivoire’s ambitious target to reduce emissions by 33.07% through domestic efforts and up to 74% with international support.

Partnerships with the European Union and Brazil

H.E. Ichard Razaaly, Ambassador of the European Union to Côte d’Ivoire, announced that the EU has invested €1.7 billion in low-carbon transitions and €150 million in reforestation initiatives.
He confirmed the forthcoming creation of a carbon market to reinforce green cooperation and commended Côte d’Ivoire’s leadership in climate diplomacy.

H.E. José Carlos de Araújo Leitão, Ambassador of Brazil, stated that COP30 will focus on human-centred policies, social protection, and the fight against hunger.
He indicated that Brazil’s declaration in Belém will centre on poverty reduction and international solidarity, reaffirming Brazil’s readiness to host the event in an ecological and symbolic spirit.

Three Strategic Pillars: Investment, Transparency, and Communication

Minister of Environment and Ecological Transition, Mr. Assouahoré, recalled that the CDN is revised every five years in line with international commitments.
He outlined the three strategic pillars of CDN 3.0:

the Investment Plan,
the Transparency Framework,
and the Communication Strategy.

He emphasised that success will depend on the active participation of all national stakeholders – government, private sector, academia, and civil society.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, head of the Ivorian delegation to COP30, expressed confidence in the country’s preparations and praised the leadership of the Minister of Environment, reaffirming that the government will vigorously defend national climate priorities on the international stage.

A Shared Commitment to the Future

The ceremony concluded with the official handover of the CDN 3.0 document and a group photo with technical and financial partners, symbolising the shared responsibility for a resilient and sustainable future.
Côte d’Ivoire reaffirmed its readiness to play an active role at COP30, standing as a leading example of regional cooperation and sustainable transformation in West Africa.

Article prepared by:
Vamara Fofana – IHRC Commissioner & Journalist (Côte d’Ivoire)

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🌿 IHRC and SHCCF Launch 100,000 Tree Planting Initiative in Sri Lanka

Dawid Szablowski — Tue, 21 Oct 2025 11:40:22 +0000

First Phase Targets Schools and Religious Centres in Ratnapura

Ratnapura, Sri Lanka – 19 October 2025

The International Human Rights Commission (IHRC Corporation), in collaboration with the Shri Hela Cultural Collaboration Foundation (SHCCF), has officially launched the first phase of the 100,000 Tree Planting Project in Ratnapura. The initiative, which aligns with the European Union’s Climate Pact, focuses on educational and religious institutions as key partners in addressing the global climate crisis.

The inaugural ceremony was held at St. Aloysius’ College in Ratnapura, coinciding with the institution’s 127th anniversary celebrations. The project’s opening activities were conducted simultaneously at three locations — St. Aloysius’ College, Ratnapura Maulli Kovil, and the Ananda Maithree Sangharaja Maha Viharaya in Ratnapura New Town.

Under the leadership of Mr. Anura Vitharana, Regional Coordinator for IHRC and President of the IHRC–SHCCF Environmental Protection Project, the program was organised with precision and community involvement. Students from the St. Aloysius’ College Scout Group played an active role, providing both labour and enthusiasm to ensure the project’s successful start.

“We are doing this for the future generation”

Addressing the participants, Dr. Chrishantha Dissanayake, Commissioner of Sri Lanka for IHRC Corporation and Founder & Director General of SHCCF, stressed the urgency of global environmental action.

“The world is currently facing a massive challenge due to climate change. In response to this crisis, the International Human Rights Commission is actively implementing initiatives globally in line with the European Union’s Climate Pact. This 100,000 tree planting project in Sri Lanka is one such programme,”
said Dr. Dissanayake.

He reaffirmed IHRC’s long-term commitment to sustainable development, adding:

“We are doing all of this for the future generation, and we are committed at any moment to creating a safe environment for them.”

Dr. Dissanayake also extended warm congratulations to St. Aloysius’ College on its milestone anniversary, underlining IHRC’s readiness for continued collaboration with local institutions.

Community support and interfaith cooperation

The event brought together representatives from diverse faiths and institutions. Blessings were bestowed upon the gathering by Ven. Delwala Muditha Nayaka Thero, Chief Incumbent of the Ananda Maithree Sangharaja Maha Viharaya, and M. Mugunan Sami of the Ratnapura Maulli Kovil, symbolising harmony and shared responsibility for the environment.

Distinguished attendees included IHRC Commissioner Dr. Chrishantha Dissanayake, IHRC SMM ZVC Mr. Anura Witharana, Mr. Kalpa Sri Lal, Mr. Pathum Madushan, Mr. Vihanga Dayawansa, and Dr. Ravi Naggaraja, Vice President of the United Nations Association. The Provincial Director of Education and several local dignitaries also honoured the ceremony with their presence.

The people of Ratnapura played a vital role in the project’s success, providing the saplings used in the tree planting. In recognition of their contributions, IHRC presented certificates of appreciation to all participants and partners.

This initiative represents not only an environmental milestone but also a testament to IHRC’s global mission of fostering intergovernmental cooperation, civic responsibility, and the preservation of natural ecosystems for generations to come.

Reported by:
Dr. Chrishantha Dissanayake
Commissioner of Sri Lanka – Investigative Journalist, IHRC

Photographs by: Pethum Madhushan

No Caption

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The Girl I Am, The Change I Lead: Girls in the Frontline of Crisis

Dawid Szablowski — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 08:36:21 +0000

IHRC Nigeria Highlights the Urgent Call to Protect and Empower Girls Facing Religious and Cultural Exploitation

Abuja, Nigeria – October 2025.
As the world commemorates the International Day of the Girl Child 2025, the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC Corporation) joins the global community in amplifying this year’s theme — “The Girl I Am, The Change I Lead: Girls in the Frontline of Crisis.” The message resonates deeply across Nigeria, where countless girls continue to endure the devastating effects of religious manipulation, ritual abuse, and cultural exploitation.

Across various communities, what should serve as a sanctuary of faith and moral guidance has, in some instances, turned into a setting of fear and psychological harm. Unscrupulous spiritual figures and false prophets exploit the innocence of young girls, often with the misguided consent of parents who seek protection or miracles. Under the guise of religion, these girls are subjected to forced initiations, ritual practices, and mental trauma — acts that erode their dignity, deprive them of education, and extinguish their hope for a brighter future.

This disturbing trend forms the core of IHRC Nigeria’s reflection for this year’s observance. The Commission emphasises that girls must not be seen merely as victims but as agents of transformation — capable of leading change, promoting justice, and building peace even amid adversity.

“When we empower the girl, we shape the destiny of a generation. The girl child is not a victim of the system; she is the architect of a better world.”
— Dr. Duru Hezekiah, Head of Diplomatic Mission, IHRC Nigeria.

Under the leadership of Dr. Hezekiah, IHRC Nigeria Mission continues to collaborate with national institutions, development agencies, and civil society partners to strengthen child protection mechanisms, advocate for equal educational opportunities, and uphold the fundamental rights of girls across the country.

The Commission reiterates its unwavering stance:
no child should ever be used as an instrument of ritual, manipulation, or spiritual exploitation.

IHRC calls upon families, faith leaders, educators, and local communities to take shared responsibility in building an environment where every girl can grow in safety, dignity, and freedom.

“When we protect the girl child, we protect the future,”
— added Dr. Duru Hezekiah.

Reported by:
Fidelis Onakpoma
Head of Media and Strategic Communications IHRC Nigeria

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☢️ IHRC Corporation and the Government of Ukraine Establish Official Cooperation on Radiation and Technological Safety

Dawid Szablowski — Sat, 04 Oct 2025 19:33:08 +0000

Formal cooperation between the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC Corporation) and Ukraine’s National Commission on Radiation Safety (NCRSPU) strengthens international civilianF protection against emerging EMP and radiological threats.

IHRC Corporation has received an official letter dated 30 September 2025 from the Chairman of the NCRSPU confirming cooperation and the appointment of Mr Igor Mantsurov as Senior Advisor for International Affairs.

Context and Strategic Significance

On 30 September 2025, IHRC Secretary General Prof. h.c. Rafal Marcin Wasik received an official communication from Mr Oleksandr Kopilenko, Chairman of the NCRSPU, announcing the appointment of Mr Igor Mantsurov as Senior Advisor for International Affairs and expressing readiness to deepen collaboration with IHRC. The NCRSPU also highlighted its methodological framework on the “Safety of the Combined Influence Zone of NPP Radiation Accidents and High-Frequency Electromagnetic Fields (EMP/HF)”.

“The IHRC Corporation welcomes this scientific initiative as a cornerstone for the joint development of global standards protecting humanity from the consequences of technological terrorism. With respect and determination, we join hands with the Government of Ukraine to safeguard life, health, and human dignity.”

— Prof. h.c. Rafal Marcin Wasik, IHRC Secretary-General, Peacemaker

IHRC Priorities Under the Cooperation

Operational Tracks

Joint scientific consultations and expert exchanges between NCRSPU and the IHRC network.
Support for UN and EU policy dialogues on classifying EMP-related aggression as a humanitarian security concern.
Development of baseline standards for civilian protection and infrastructure resilience.

Advisory Architecture

IHRC proposes a joint Advisory Committee on International Radiation & Electromagnetic Safety (IHRC–NCRSPU) to coordinate research briefs, policy notes, and capacity-building for partner states and agencies.

Safeguards, Ethics, and Human Rights

The cooperation underscores human-centred safeguards in dual-use technologies, evidence standards for attribution, and the proportionality of protective measures in line with international human rights and humanitarian law.

About this Cooperation

This announcement follows the NCRSPU’s official letter confirming cooperation with the IHRC and appointing Mr Igor Mantsurov as Senior Advisor for International Affairs.

Initial Workplan (Indicative)

Q4 2025: Expert roundtable (virtual) on EMP/radiation combined risks.
Q1 2026: Drafting baseline guidance for civilian protection.
Q2 2026: Engagement with UN/EU agencies and partner states.

Contact

International Human Rights Commission (IHRC Corporation)
Office of the Secretary – General

For media and institutional partners: please reference “IHRC–NCRSPU Cooperation (2025)” in subject lines.

Editorial note: This article references the NCRSPU’s official correspondence dated 30 September 2025 acknowledging cooperation with IHRC and the appointment of Mr Igor Mantsurov as Senior Advisor for International Affairs.

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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