Manel Abeysekara, a pioneer in Sri Lanka’s foreign service and the country’s first female career diplomat, has passed away. Her groundbreaking career shattered long-standing gender barriers in international relations, leaving an indelible mark on Sri Lanka’s foreign policy legacy.
Key Highlights
- Marked history as Sri Lanka’s first female career diplomat upon entering the foreign service.
- Served in prominent diplomatic roles, representing Sri Lanka across multiple international missions.
- Paved the way for generations of women in Sri Lankan governance and international affairs.
Abeysekara joined the Ceylon Overseas Service at a time when diplomatic roles were almost exclusively held by men. Through her dedication and strategic acumen, she quickly rose through the ranks, demonstrating exceptional leadership on international platforms and representing Sri Lanka with distinction across various global capitals.
Throughout her distinguished career, Abeysekara served in critical postings, including as Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to Thailand and High Commissioner to key regional partners. Tributes from foreign policy experts, former colleagues, and political leaders continue to pour in, honoring her lifetime of dedicated public service and her legacy as a champion for women in leadership.