Sri Lanka’s Namini Wijedasa to receive International Women of Courage Award

Sri Lankan journalist Namini Wijedasa is to receive the International Women of Courage Award by the US State Department.

On Tuesday, April 1, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and First Lady Melania Trump will host the annual International Women of Courage (IWOC) Awards ceremony at the Department of State.

Now in its 19th year, the Secretary of State?s IWOC Award recognizes women from around the world who have demonstrated exceptional courage, strength, and leadership ? often at great personal risk and sacrifice.

Since 2007, the Department of State has recognized more than 200 women from over 90 countries with the IWOC Award.

Wijedasa, an award-winning journalist with over 30 years of experience, began her career chronicling the human toll of Sri Lanka?s civil conflict and giving voice to those affected by its aftermath.

Over time, her focus shifted to combating corruption through investigative reporting, bringing critical accountability issues to the forefront and inspiring the next generation of journalists.

Through her work, Ms. Wijedasa has consistently championed accountability, emphasizing that meaningful change can only be achieved when the people demand transparency from those in power, urging them to address the nation?s long-standing challenges.

Despite restrictive legislation that had a chilling effect on many reporters and freedom of expression in Sri Lanka, she remains undeterred in her pursuit of positive change.

Her work not only aims to hold the most powerful accountable but also fosters dialogue on economic prosperity and transparent governance, paving the way for a new generation of reporters and ensuring a legacy of courageous, impactful journalism. (Colombo Gazette)