Nine child marriages recorded in Sri Lanka during first nine months of 2026

Sri Lanka's child protection framework faces continued challenges, with the National Child Protection Authority (NCPA) reporting nine documented cases of child marriage during the opening nine months of 2026.

According to the NCPA, a significant proportion of these marriages were arranged following initial contact through social media platforms, highlighting emerging vulnerabilities in digital spaces where minors are exposed to exploitation risks.

In a parallel concern, the authority has received multiple complaints alleging improper treatment of children in police custody. Eleven children have been named in complaints involving alleged assault and unlawful detention, raising questions about adherence to child welfare protocols within law enforcement agencies.

These developments underscore ongoing challenges in protecting Sri Lanka's vulnerable youth from both family-level abuses and institutional failures. Child protection advocates have previously warned that social media platforms require stronger monitoring mechanisms to prevent their exploitation in facilitating underage marriages.

The NCPA figures suggest continued enforcement gaps despite existing legislation prohibiting child marriage and establishing protocols for child protection in police custody. Stakeholders have called for strengthened coordination between relevant authorities and enhanced training for law enforcement personnel handling child-related cases.