Safeguarding Child Rights in Post-Pandemic Sri Lanka

Abstract

This abstract delves into the complex issues of human rights violations against children in post-pandemic Sri Lanka. The pandemic has brought forth a host of challenges for children in Sri Lanka during this period, with the main issue being violations that are highlighted on a daily basis. These violations infringe upon children's fundamental rights, as guaranteed by the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC). The main objective of the research is to raise awareness within society about children's rights, the risks to the future of children, the importance of quality education, and the creation of a society that upholds these rights. This research also seeks to help mitigate child rights violations and promote collaborative efforts among government bodies, agencies, organizations, and institutions to protect children's rights in selected areas. This research uses quantitative and it primarily involves a comprehensive data collection approach, utilizing both interviews and questionnaires. These data-gathering instruments have been administered to key stakeholders, including schools, the Child Protection Authority, and district registration offices Hambantota and Colombo district. Through in-depth interviews the impact of the pandemic on the well-being and rights of children in Sri Lanka were sort. One significant outcome of this research is the increased awareness within society regarding the critical importance of safeguarding children's rights. The study also highlights the risks that threaten the future of Sri Lankan children, emphasizing the urgent need for quality education and the creation of a society that staunchly upholds these rights. Furthermore, this research identifies the pressing need for concerted efforts to mitigate child rights violations. Collaborative initiatives involving government bodies, agencies, organizations, and institutions are essential to effectively protect children's rights. The selected areas of Hambantota district and Colombo district serve as examples where such collaborative efforts can be implemented. From this research found lakness of awareness of child rights and initiated positive changes in the society in this areas. Also can be seen of motivation and participation of safeguarding child rights among school children. This can mitigate child rights violations of Children in Colombo and Hambantota Districts.