Online Violence against Children in Urban and Semi-Urban Settlements in Sri Lanka: A research on incidence, nature, and scope

The study, commissioned by Save the Children International (Sri Lanka) and World Vision,  explores the growing issue of online violence against children in Sri Lanka, such as cyberbullying, sexual exploitation, grooming, and radicalization. Despite an accelerating digital transformation and rising incidents of abuse over the past decade, a lack of systematic studies has hindered policy responses.

Conducted from 2019 to 2021 as part of GPEVAC’s initiative, the research aimed to assess the scope and impact of online violence against children in Sri Lanka, evaluate existing support mechanisms currently available for children in responding to incidents of online/cyber violence committed against them, and incorporate children’s perspectives on prevention and intervention. The findings aim to improve legal enforcement and psychosocial support in Sri Lanka.