The International Day to End Corporal Punishment commemorated on 30th April marks a significant stride towards fostering a safer and more compassionate society towards children. Corporal punishment, characterized by the use of physical force for disciplinary purposes, has long been a contentious issue influenced by entrenched cultural and societal norms.

The Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka prioritizes child rights through a multi-faceted approach. This includes advocating for child-friendly policies at the national level, monitoring and reporting on the implementation of these policies, conducting educational programmes to raise awareness about child rights, forming partnerships with relevant stakeholders, conducting research to understand child rights issues, and building the capacity of professionals to protect and promote child rights effectively.

The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), unequivocally asserts the rights of every child to be protected from all forms of violence and affirms the best interest of the child. Sri Lanka ratified the Convention in 1991. International legal instruments such as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (CAT) also explicitly prohibit corporal punishment.

Download: Statement of the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka on ending Corporal Punishment