Sri Lankan journalist Namini Wijedasa has been honored with the U.S. Secretary of State’s 2025 International Women of Courage (IWOC) Award, recognizing her exceptional contributions to investigative journalism and her unwavering commitment to exposing corruption and advocating for transparency in Sri Lanka.
With a distinguished career spanning over three decades, Wijedasa has consistently demonstrated courage and integrity in her reporting. She began her journalism journey by documenting the human impact of Sri Lanka’s civil conflict, providing a voice to those affected by the war. Her investigative work has shed light on critical issues, including governmental malfeasance and human rights violations, often at significant personal risk.
The IWOC Award, established in 2007 by the U.S. Department of State, honors women worldwide who have exhibited exceptional courage, strength, and leadership in advocating for peace, justice, human rights, gender equality, and the empowerment of women and girls, often at great personal risk and sacrifice. Wijedasa’s recognition underscores her dedication to these principles and highlights the vital role of a free and independent press in promoting accountability and democratic values.
The 18th annual IWOC Celebration is scheduled for April 8, 2025, at the Jonathan Club in Los Angeles. This event, presented by the American Women for International Understanding (AWIU) in partnership with the U.S. Department of State, will honor Wijedasa and her fellow awardees, providing a platform to celebrate their achievements and further their causes. (NewsWire)