Chandima Dunuwila

Bridging Law, Humanity, and Hope

- By Dr. Sulochana Segera

With over fifteen years of experience across public service, civil society, and legal practice, Attorney-at-Law, Chandima Dunuwila, has established herself as a passionate advocate for justice, peacebuilding, and the protection of vulnerable communities in Sri Lanka. She has served as Assistant Director of Law Enforcement at the National Child Protection Authority and contributed to institutions like the Office on Missing Persons, NGOs, and international development projects promoting reconciliation and social cohesion.

Academically grounded in law, public management, and conflict resolution, Chandima is known for her deeply human approach to legal reform and empowerment. In this candid interview, Chandima reflects on her journey, shares the lessons she's learned, and offers heartfelt advice on navigating professional ambition, motherhood, and systemic change in Sri Lanka.

You've had a multifaceted legal career spanning public service, civil society, and private practice. What inspired you to pursue law, and how has your purpose evolved over the years?

From the time I was a child, I dreamed of becoming a lawyer. That dream never left me, and eventually, I pursued a law degree through the Open University of Sri Lanka. Before that, I completed my first degree in Peace and Conflict Resolution at the University of Kelaniya, which deeply influenced my worldview. My career began at Rights Now, a civil society organization focused on human rights and democracy, where I worked for six years. Even after I became a practicing lawyer, I sought roles where I could blend my legal training with peacebuilding and human rights work. That passion led me to institutions like the National Child Protection Authority and the Office on Missing Persons. My purpose has evolved to always seek spaces where law serves humanity and justice reaches those who need it most.