EVERY CHILD DESERVES TO GROW UP SAFE AND SUPPORTED.
Save the Children is a global leader in child protection, especially in times of crisis and conflict, when children are most vulnerable. We work with children, families and communities, as well as supporters of children around the world, to understand and address children’s unique protection needs. This includes both the physical and mental health impacts of harm – including abuse, neglect, exploitation and violence – while promoting a safe family environment for every child.
Children impacted by floods after Cyclone Ditwah spend time drawing and making origami at a child friendly space in Colombo. Nashali Silva/ Save the Children
Over the years, our strong partnership with the government of Sri Lanka has led to the strengthening of national child protection systems. We have supported government stakeholders in holding case conferences, developing mechanisms for reporting child protection cases, including cases of online violence, strengthening services, support for child survivors of trafficking, and reintegrating child soldiers and children in conflict with law into society.
In partnership with key private sector tea companies, we led efforts in the plantation sector to foster stronger mother and child-friendly tea plantations, launching a collaborative child protection policy. As the economic crisis unfolded, we prioritized access to critical protection services for vulnerable communities, including sexual reproductive health and gender-based violence support, while providing targeted assistance and referrals for children facing serious protection risks.
At the national level, we have worked closely with the Government of Sri Lanka to strengthen systems that prevent and respond to child sexual abuse. This includes launching Sri Lanka’s Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) reporting portal in partnership with the National Child Protection Authority (NCPA) and the Internet Watch Foundation.
Children impacted by floods, after Cyclone Ditwah, take part in mental health and psychosocial activities in Colombo. Nashali Silva/ Save the Children
In the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah, many children and families continue to face significant challenges as they recover from the crisis. Disrupted livelihoods, strained services, and ongoing economic hardship have increased protection risks and left many children experiencing uncertainty and psychosocial distress. As communities move beyond the immediate humanitarian phase, restoring a sense of safety, stability, and wellbeing remains critical - particularly for the most vulnerable.
Through an integrated, locally led approach, with support from the European Union (EU), and working closely with government and local partners, our work aims to support children and families to recover with dignity by providing multi-purpose cash assistance and mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS).