ECPAT Sri Lanka has been actively monitoring and collecting reports of violence against children in the media since 2013. Each reported case undergoes a thorough verification process to ensure its authenticity and gather comprehensive details for further action.

Since January 2023, we have introduced a monthly e-newsletter titled 'Stop Child Abuse', where we publish a summary of our findings. This newsletter is distributed to around 1000 recipients, including civil society organisations, research institutions, media, UN agencies and other relevant institutions and individuals in Sri Lanka and abroad.

On a monthly basis, we collate reports of violence against children from the media and compile an e-newsletter, providing an analysis with supporting graphs. This comprehensive compilation supports like-minded organisations who do not compile data with valuable information on violence against children. It eliminates the need for these organisations to individually conduct similar monitoring and compilation efforts.

The availability of this data also promotes targeted fieldwork and enables NGOs to incorporate the information into their awareness programmes and grant-writing endeavours. ECPAT Sri Lanka awareness-raising sessions utilise this data as a resource and it is also accessible to others.

The details from these reports can initiate broader discussions in newspapers, social media and television platforms, fostering a general discourse about the issue of violence against children.

As part of our ongoing commitment to media monitoring, ECPAT Sri Lanka conducts in-depth investigations into cases of individual abuse that gain significant attention. Our dedicated team of professionals takes a proactive approach by visiting the child and their family to collect and analyse additional data, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the incident. In doing so, we prioritise meeting with relevant officials to obtain first-hand information, which helps us build a solid case.

In situations that demand immediate action, we swiftly generate reports and submit them to the appropriate authorities, ensuring that no time is wasted in addressing the issue at hand. As we firmly believe in transparency and accountability, we also provide detailed special reports to our donors, specifically highlighting our investigations and examinations of significant or high-profile cases.

Moreover, we take it upon ourselves to ensure that the victims receive the necessary medical care and psychosocial support. In addition, we provide relevant referrals to the National Child Protection Authority (NCPA) and the Bureau for the Prevention of Abuse of Children and Women, ensuring that the victims are guided towards appropriate channels for further support and assistance.

Recognising the legal implications of abuse, we consult with lawyers who are well-versed in child protection laws. Through these collaborations, we offer free legal services to the victims, helping them navigate the legal process and ensure their rights are protected. Lastly, we understand the importance of spreading awareness and keeping the public informed. We hold press briefings to provide updates on the situation and shed light on the work we are doing to combat child abuse. By engaging with the media, we amplify the voices of the victims and advocate for their rights, ultimately working towards a society that priorities the safety and well-being of children.