CJPSL proudly recognises Justices of the Peace, peace activists, political leaders, and global peacemakers who have made extraordinary contributions to justice, reconciliation, and community service in Sri Lanka and the world.
The Desha Awards are CJPSL's prestigious national honours, presented to Justices of the Peace, peace activists, political leaders, and community servants who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to the nation and its people. The name Desha (දේශ / தேச) means "Nation" in both Sinhala and Tamil.
The Desha Keerthi — meaning "National Glory" — is the highest award in the CJPSL national honours system. It is conferred upon individuals who have brought outstanding glory and recognition to Sri Lanka through decades of dedicated service in justice, peace, human rights, or legal practice. Recipients of the Desha Keerthi are regarded as icons of national service and exemplars of the JP ideal.
The Desha Shakthi — meaning "National Strength" — honours individuals who embody strength of character, moral courage, and institutional leadership in service of Sri Lanka. This award recognises those who have stood firm for justice and peace even in the face of adversity, contributing significantly to the strengthening of democratic institutions and civil society.
The Desha Abhimanya — derived from the Sanskrit meaning "Pride of the Nation" — celebrates individuals who embody the noble spirit of Abhimanya: brave, committed, and unrelenting in their pursuit of justice and peace. This award is given to rising leaders and dedicated community workers who have shown extraordinary valour in public service.
The Keerthi Shiri — meaning "Glorious Grace" — is a special distinction awarded to individuals from all walks of life who have contributed to the cultural, spiritual, and moral fabric of Sri Lankan society. This award transcends professional categories and honours the grace of selfless service. It is presented at provincial conventions and national gatherings.
Peace is not merely the absence of war but the presence of justice, equality, and human dignity for every soul on this earth.
CJPSL's Global Peace Awards recognise outstanding individuals at the international level — from Justices of the Peace and Sri Lankan peace workers to global statesmen and peacebuilders who have advanced humanity's pursuit of lasting peace.
Named in honour of Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela — Nobel Peace Laureate, anti-apartheid icon, and the moral conscience of the 20th century — this is CJPSL's most prestigious international award. Conferred at the Nelson Mandela International Peace Summit hosted in Colombo, it recognises individuals who have demonstrated Mandela's values of reconciliation, forgiveness, and unrelenting dedication to justice.
Honouring the legacy of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi — the Father of the Indian Nation and apostle of non-violence — this award is presented to individuals whose life and work embodies the Gandhian principles of Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truth), and selfless service to humanity. CJPSL confers this award on peace activists, spiritual leaders, and community servants across South Asia.
Presented annually at the Colombo Peace Conference — CJPSL's flagship international gathering — this award recognises individuals and organisations that have made significant contributions to sustainable peace in Sri Lanka and the broader South Asian region. It honours both local heroes and international figures who participated in or supported the peace process in Sri Lanka.
The National Peace Excellence Award recognises outstanding individuals who have distinguished themselves through extraordinary contributions to national peace, social harmony, and legal empowerment in Sri Lanka. This award spans all sectors — from the judiciary and legislature to civil society and community grassroots — and celebrates excellence wherever it is found in the service of national wellbeing.
The South Asian Peace Ambassador Award is the most exclusive honour in the CJPSL awards system — personally conferred by the Chairperson, Dr. AMM. Fahath JP. This award is reserved for extraordinary individuals who have demonstrated the highest level of commitment to peace across the South Asian region. Recipients are designated official CJPSL Peace Ambassadors, representing the Council's mission on the international stage.
The Asia Peace Excellence Award is CJPSL's continental honour celebrating extraordinary individuals across Asia who have advanced the cause of peace, justice, and human dignity. Spanning South Asia, Southeast Asia, East Asia, and Central Asia, this award recognises that peace knows no borders. Recipients are leaders — from community activists to heads of state — who have demonstrated that Asian values of harmony, compassion, and collective wellbeing can serve as a model for the world.
All CJPSL awards follow a rigorous and transparent nomination and selection process governed by the Governing Council to ensure the highest standards of integrity and fairness.
Any CJPSL member, JP, or institution may nominate a deserving individual by submitting a written nomination with supporting evidence.
The CJPSL Awards Committee verifies the nominee's record, service history, and the accuracy of the nomination submission.
The Governing Council reviews the shortlisted nominees and votes to select recipients in each award category.
Selected recipients are notified by official letter from the Chairperson and invited to the award ceremony.
Awards are presented at the relevant conference or national gathering — with a memento, certificate, and official citation.
If you know a Justice of the Peace, peace activist, political leader, or community worker who deserves recognition, submit a nomination to the CJPSL Governing Council. All nominations are carefully reviewed for each annual awards cycle.
Registered members of CJPSL are eligible for nomination to all Desha and Global Peace Awards. Apply for membership to be part of Sri Lanka's foremost JP organisation.
