Free Legal Aid Initiative Empowers Women, Girls, and Vulnerable Communities
Mannar, Sri Lanka – 17 June 2026 – The third programme of the Mannar District Chapter under the Empower Her: Ensuring Equal Rights for Every Woman and Girl initiative was successfully held at the Mannar Divisional Secretariat Auditorium, providing free legal aid and psychosocial support services to members of the local community.
The Empower Her Legal Clinic was organised under the leadership of Mr. Shantha Dalugamage, Founder and CEO of Stichting Mission Lanka, with the generous support of the Embassy of the Netherlands in Sri Lanka and the Maldives.
The programme forms part of Mission Lanka Foundation’s ongoing commitment to improving access to justice, promoting gender equality, strengthening human rights, and empowering vulnerable communities across Sri Lanka.
Free Legal Aid and Psychosocial Support
The Legal Clinic offered confidential legal consultation and psychosocial support to individuals seeking assistance with legal, social, and human rights matters.
Particular attention was given to supporting:
- Women facing legal and social challenges
- Girls requiring guidance on their rights and legal protection
- Vulnerable individuals seeking access to justice
- Community members in need of psychosocial assistance and legal information
The clinic created a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment where participants could openly discuss their concerns and receive professional guidance.
Expert Legal Guidance
The programme featured Mr. N. L. A. Kalam, Attorney-at-Law and Regional Coordinator (Puttalam) of the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka, who served as the Resource Person.
Drawing on his extensive legal and human rights expertise, Mr. Kalam provided valuable advice on legal rights, access to justice, human rights protection, and practical solutions to challenges faced by community members.
Participants were encouraged to better understand their legal rights and the support services available to them.
Strengthening Community Empowerment
The programme was successfully coordinated by Mr. Sanka Jayanath and Mr. Anusha Indrajith, Programme Coordinators of Stichting Mission Lanka, whose dedication ensured the effective implementation of this important community outreach initiative.
Special appreciation is also extended to the Mannar Divisional Secretariat and its staff for providing the venue and supporting the successful organisation of the Legal Clinic.
Building Inclusive Communities Through Justice
The Empower Her Legal Clinic reflects Stichting Mission Lanka’s continued commitment to expanding access to justice, promoting gender equality, safeguarding human rights, and strengthening community resilience.
By providing free legal aid and psychosocial support, the programme helps ensure that women, girls, and vulnerable individuals have greater access to protection, professional guidance, and opportunities to exercise their rights with dignity and confidence.
Through initiatives such as the Empower Her Legal Clinic, Mission Lanka Foundation continues to build stronger, safer, and more inclusive communities where justice, equality, and opportunity are accessible to all.
