Founded in October 2018 by Chandra Deveranarayana, Revolutionary Existence for Human Development (RED) emerged from a commitment to combat repression, oppression, and exploitation, with a particular focus on addressing the sexual harassment of women workers.

The organization supports vulnerable groups, including widows, single mothers, and migrant women in Free Trade Zones (FTZs), while also tackling critical environmental issues affecting workers. 

Initially facing financial constraints, RED secured an individual grant from Women Fund Asia, which enabled advocacy efforts such as addressing the drinking water crisis in the Katunayake FTZ. While the government promised action, implementation stalled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

During lockdowns, FTZ workers faced severe hardships without wages or food, and RED responded by providing essential relief and legal aid to those who were unfairly terminated. Many of these cases continue in labor courts today.

Now a membership-based organization with 700 members, RED advocates for a social security system for private sector workers and educates and organizes women, particularly widows and single mothers, empowering them in their workplaces and communities.

Relaunched as a trade union, RED campaigns for living wages, voting rights, non-discrimination, and language rights, while also working to combat domestic violence and other social injustices.

With headquarters in Katunayake and an office in Vavuniya, the organization provides economic support, psychosocial programs, and legal aid to empower women.