Established under the Women Empowerment Act, No. 37 of 2024, the Commission is tasked with promoting and protecting women’s rights and gender equality, including investigating violations or potential violations of those rights. Since its establishment in September 2025, the Commission has been working to develop its institutional framework, administrative systems, and operational infrastructure.
A veteran diplomat, Asirwatham has served as Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to Nepal, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Luxembourg, and as Head of Mission to the European Union. She also held the position of Deputy Director-General at the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons.
The Commission’s members include Shreen Saroor, Janaha Selvaras, Jayanthi Kuru-Utumpala, Dr Padma Gunaratne, Dr Kalana Senaratne, and M U Gayani, with K D R Olga serving as Executive Director.
