Renowned Sri Lankan human rights defender Brito Fernando has been awarded the prestigious Per Anger Prize for 2026, in recognition of his decades-long struggle for truth, justice, and accountability for victims of enforced disappearances in Sri Lanka.
The award, presented by the Swedish Government, honours individuals and organisations that have made outstanding contributions to human rights and democracy worldwide. Civil Rights Defenders announced that Fernando was selected for his unwavering commitment to seeking justice for tens of thousands of disappeared persons in Sri Lanka.
Fernando is the founder and chair of the Families of the Disappeared (FoD), a network representing over 20,000 affected families across the country. Since the late 1980s, he has worked tirelessly to uncover the fate of those who disappeared during periods of political violence and civil war, and to demand accountability from authorities.
Sri Lanka continues to have one of the highest numbers of unresolved cases of enforced disappearances globally, according to the UN Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances. Many of these cases date back to the civil conflict that ended in 2009, with families still seeking answers about their missing loved ones.
Despite facing arrests, intimidation, and personal attacks, Fernando has remained steadfast in his advocacy. His work has also played a critical role in bringing together Sinhalese, Tamil, and Muslim communities in a collective effort for truth and justice, promoting reconciliation in a deeply divided society.
Responding to the recognition, Fernando stated that the honour belongs not to him, but to the families who have fought for more than three decades without giving up, describing the award as encouragement for their continued struggle.
In its citation, the jury praised Fernando’s courage and lifelong dedication to defending the rights of marginalized communities, highlighting his efforts to demand accountability while fostering remembrance and reconciliation.
Established in 2004, the Per Anger Prize is named after Swedish diplomat Per Anger, who is known for his efforts to save lives during the Second World War. The award is presented annually to individuals or organisations demonstrating exceptional commitment to human rights and democratic values. (Civil Rights Defenders)
Fernando’s recognition marks a significant moment for Sri Lanka’s human rights movement, bringing renewed international attention to the ongoing struggle for justice for victims of enforced disappearances.