Cabinet Approves Amendments to Strengthen Child Protection Laws in Sri Lanka
The Cabinet of Ministers has approved a proposal to amend the National Child Protection Authority (NCPA) Act No. 50 of 1998, in response to the evolving and more complex nature of child exploitation and abuse in Sri Lanka.
Cabinet Spokesman Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa stated that, after 25 years since its enactment, the existing legislation no longer adequately addresses the socio-economic, political, and cultural challenges that have emerged, particularly those affecting child safety.
He emphasized that due to significant changes in society, new forms of abuse and exploitation against children have surfaced, making it essential to update the law to provide better protection and stronger legal frameworks.
As a result, the Cabinet has approved a proposal submitted by the Minister of Women’s and Child Affairs to instruct the Legal Draftsman to prepare a draft bill to amend the current act. The revisions will aim to expand the scope, efficiency, and effectiveness of the Child Protection Authority’s operations.
The updated legislation is expected to empower the NCPA with improved mechanisms to prevent abuse, respond more effectively to violations of children’s rights, and align child protection efforts with modern-day realities.
