FPA Sri Lanka conducted a National Media Conference with the theme “Human Rights, Gender Equality, HIV and the Role of Media”. The Conference discussed roles played by different media, including mediums such as film, theatre, songs and literature in relation to the portrayal of those with diverse sexual orientations and gender identities and how it has affected the perceptions of the general public and Policymakers, and what needs to change. The conference included keynote addresses and panel discussions with eminent personnel representing different media such as: 

Ms Dilrukshi Handunetti – Senior Associate Editor of The Sunday Observer, Gender Co-ordinator for the International Federation of Journalists.

- Topic addressed - Introductory remarks on Print & electronic Media influence on Human rights & gender in Sri Lanka.

Dr. Sepali Kottegoda – Executive Director  at Women and Media Collective

- Topic addressed - Experiences of civil society & media partnership in Sri Lanka.

 Mr Chandran Ratnum –Internationally acclaimed veteran Film Director & a Script Writer

- Topic addressed - Examples of how visual media address issues relating to gender & human rights (Global Perspective)

Ms. Akhila Sivadas – Center for Advocacy and Research in New Delhi

- Key Note address on Role of the Media in achieving human rights and gender equality, with special reference to the experiences from the South Asia Region

• Mr. Budhadasa Galappatti, Writer &  a media critique
• Ms Enoka Sathyanganie (TBC)  & Mr Gaya Ramya De Alwis  – Film, teledrama directors & script writers 
• Ms Nita Fernando, Film Producer, Actress and Activist & founder of Living with Hope Foundation

The three participants mentioned above addressed The Role visual media had played to shape public perception on Gender & Human Rights in Sri Lanka from their individual perspectives.

Mr. Chandragupta Thenuwara – Head of Faculty – University of  Visual and Performing Arts

Keynote address on “Can visual & performing arts play a larger role to change societal attitudes on gender & human rights”

The aim of the conference was to sensitize media personnel from print and electronic media on the difficulties in ensuring Human Rights and Gender Equality for those with diverse sexual orientations and gender identities, and how it has affected the public and policymakers’ decisions.

The event was held at the Crystal Ballroom - Taj Samudra Hotel, Colombo on 22^nd December.