This information was provided by the Government of Sri Lanka to the fifth session of the United Nations Commission on Sustainable Development. The Children's Charter, based on the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, was approved by the Cabinet in 1992, and the implementation of its provisions is monitored by a National Committee. A presidential Task Force was appointed recently to make recommendations to prevent child abuse and prostitution of children. Strategies, Policies, and Plans Special emphasis is given to children in the area of human resource development. A National Plan of Action for Children has been formulated.
Legislation is in place to prohibit child labour in industry.
Raising the living standards and reducing poverty among all groups of people remain the main priorities of the Government. Peace and security are vital for achieving these objectives. NGOs which provide residential facilities for destitute children are provided financial assistance by the Government. The Government launched the Samurdhi Programme to promote self-employment, particularly among the youth in rural areas, to alleviate poverty by using their own strength. The Ministry of Social Services provides a variety of programmes to assist the destitute and vulnerable groups in society.