Strengthening gender equality in Sri Lanka

The Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka has completed a gender audit to strengthen its work and operations, with support from the APF.

The Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka (HRCSL) has undertaken a comprehensive gender audit with support from the APF, to assess how well gender considerations are integrated into its work and operations.

This initiative builds on a series of recent steps by the HRCSL to tackle widespread gender-based human rights violations in Sri Lanka. In 2024, the Commission appointed a gender focal point to improve access to justice for women and gender minorities. Partnering with the APF, the HRCSL has now undertaken a full review of its internal policies, workplace culture, decision-making processes, and external engagement through a gender lens.

Using a participatory approach, the gender audit brought together staff, commissioners, and external stakeholders through surveys, interviews, and focus groups to gather diverse insights and identify opportunities for change.

It was guided by a Gender Audit Team which included Dr. Farzana Haniffa (Commissioner), K. Kapilan Villavarajan (Director of International Relations), Menaka Herath (Director of Education and Special Programmes), APF Manager of Capacity Development and Gender Programmes Aishath Fasoha, and APF consultant Dr. Jill Chrisp, who provided technical expertise throughout the process.

“Conducting a gender audit is not just an internal assessment – it is an act of accountability and commitment to gender equality. It requires looking inward, understanding current realities, and paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable workplace,” said Ms Aishath.

By fostering a culture of gender equality, the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka has set an example for other organisations and the wider community.

Fasoha Aishath, APF Manager of Gender Equality and Capacity Development

The gender audit established a baseline for the Commission to further integrate gender considerations into its work and identified both strengths and areas for improvement.

The final report will inform strategies to mainstream gender across the institution, strengthen responses to gender-based violations, and build a more inclusive organisational culture.

As part of its ongoing support for gender equality, the APF has developed a resource: Facilitating a NHRI Gender Audit, which assists NHRIs in conducting gender assessments within their own institutions.