12–14 June 2025 | MAS Athena, Thulhiriya
The National Children’s Consultation on Ending Violence Against Children was successfully held from 12th to 14th June 2025 at MAS Athena, Thulhiriya, marking a significant milestone in placing children’s voices at the center of national policymaking and protection efforts in Sri Lanka.
This impactful event was collaboratively organized by NACG EVaC Sri Lanka together with the Department of Probation and Child Care Services (DPCCS) and key child protection partners, including the Foundation for Innovative Social Development (FISD), SAFE Foundation, World Vision, LEADS, ChildFund Sri Lanka, and Blooming Buds. All partners, united under the National Action and Coordination Group to End Violence Against Children in Sri Lanka, worked together to make this consultation a reality.
The event brought together two child representatives from each district, alongside government officials, non-governmental organizations, and civil society actors, with the shared goal of strengthening child protection through meaningful, child-led dialogue.
The consultation was honored by the presence of Dr. Rinchen Chopel, Director General of the South Asia Initiative to End Violence Against Children (SAIEVAC) and Vice Chair of the United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child, who delivered a powerful keynote:
“Sri Lanka has played a pioneering role in seeking solutions to end violence against children,” Dr. Chopel emphasized, applauding the country’s dedication to progressive and inclusive child protection strategies.
Children played a leading role in consultation sharing personal experiences, critically examining existing policies, and voting on recommendations that reflect their genuine needs and aspirations. Their voices echoed a clear message: child protection policies must be shaped with children, not just for them.
On the final day, these child-led proposals were officially presented to the Assistant to the Hon. Minister of Women and Child Affairs, Saroja Paulraj, ensuring that decision-makers heard directly from the children whose futures these policies will shape.
This consultation powerfully demonstrated that when children are empowered to participate, true change becomes possible. It reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s growing national commitment to end violence against children and ensuring their safety, dignity, and voice.
Together, through partnership and child leadership, we are creating a safer, more inclusive Sri Lanka where every child is protected, heard, and empowered.