Visaka Dharmadasa Wins the Fifth Annual Women Building Peace Award from USIP

Visaka Dharmadasa Recognized for Peaceful Advocacy

On February 27, 2025, the U.S. Institute of Peace (USIP) proudly announced Sri Lanka's Visaka Dharmadasa as the laureate of the fifth annual Women Building Peace Award. This prestigious award honors women who demonstrate extraordinary commitment, leadership, and impact in resolving violent conflicts and promoting peace in their communities.

Ambassador George Moose, the interim President and CEO of USIP, remarked on Visaka's courageous work over more than three decades. He emphasized her unwavering dedication to peace, even in the face of significant hardships. This award not only acknowledges her achievements but also highlights the essential roles women play in peacebuilding efforts across the globe.

The selection panel, known as the Council of Women Builders of Peace at USIP, comprised prominent experts in this field. They had the challenging task of choosing from over 170 nominees across 52 countries. Alongside Dharmadasa, the finalists included Lilly BeSoer from Papua New Guinea and Mairo Mandara from Nigeria, each representing impactful work in their unique contexts.

The Council’s co-chairs, Marcia Carlucci and Megan Beyer, shared insights about the selection process, highlighting, “In Sri Lanka, a society deeply affected by social divisions, Visaka's work exemplifies the transformative power of mediation and compassion.” Her efforts have been pivotal in addressing the ongoing conflict in her country.

As president of the Association of Women Affected by War, Visaka leads initiatives that foster inter-community dialogues and raise awareness among soldiers and community leaders about international norms concerning warfare ethics. In a particularly personal and poignant journey, after her son, a young military officer, went missing during the civil conflict, she established Parents of Servicemen Missing in Action. This organization serves as a vital support mechanism for families seeking information about their loved ones lost to war.

Under Visaka's guidance, her organization empowers Sri Lankan women, equipping them with the skills and confidence necessary to take on leadership roles within their communities and local authorities.

The Women Building Peace Award serves to highlight such vital contributions made by women around the world in their pursuit of conflict resolution and peace promotion. For more information about this award and its mission, visit USIP's official page.

Furthermore, to learn more about the U.S. Institute of Peace and its initiatives, please visit USIP About Page. Visaka Dharmadasa's work serves as an inspiring beacon of hope not only for women in Sri Lanka but for peace advocates globally, showcasing how courage and commitment can pave the way for lasting change.