Sri Lanka signs letter of intent to join Global Charter on Children’s Care Reform to strengthen family-based care and protect vulnerable children during UK Deputy Prime Minister’s visit to Colombo

Sri Lanka has taken a significant step toward improving the lives of its most vulnerable children by signing a letter of intent to join the UK’s Global Charter for Children’s Care Reform.

The move, announced today during a visit to Colombo by Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy, signals a commitment to ensuring children grow up in safe, supportive family environments rather than institutions.

The initiative aligns with global efforts to strengthen families, prevent unnecessary separation, and provide high-quality family-based care for children in need.

Experts say that countries joining the Charter commit to a shift away from institutional care toward solutions that prioritize nurturing family settings.

What the Global Charter Means

The Global Charter for Children’s Care Reform, launched by the UK in early 2025, is designed to transform the way children’s care is approached worldwide.

Its goals are clear: prevent children from being separated from their families without cause, ensure access to safe family-based care, and ultimately end the reliance on institutional care, which research shows often harms children’s long-term development.

Deputy Prime Minister Lammy highlighted that the UK is working with nations globally to promote urgent reforms in children’s care.

“Preventing unnecessary separation of children from their families and ensuring safe, family-based care has the power to restore hope and give the next generation a chance to thrive,” Lammy said during his visit.

Diplomatic Engagements During the Visit

During his trip, Lammy met with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to discuss not just child welfare, but broader issues including economic cooperation, humanitarian priorities, and ongoing reconciliation efforts.

He also engaged with opposition leaders, Tamil political representatives, and civil society groups to reinforce the UK’s commitment to peaceful reconciliation and transitional justice in Sri Lanka.

As part of the UK’s support, £1 million in urgent humanitarian aid has been provided to help communities recover from Cyclone Ditwah.

The funds were used for emergency shelter, clean water, sanitation, and other essential relief for affected families, highlighting the connection between humanitarian support and broader social reforms.

Why This Matters for Sri Lanka

For Sri Lanka, joining the Global Charter represents more than a symbolic step.

Children who are unnecessarily separated from their families face long-term emotional, psychological, and social challenges.

By committing to family-based care, Sri Lanka is aiming to break cycles of vulnerability and give children the stability they need to thrive.

Minister for Women and Child Affairs, Saroja Paulraj, expressed optimism about the future impact, noting that this alignment with international standards can help shape policies and programs that protect children while supporting families.

What’s Next?

Sri Lanka will now begin the process of implementing reforms outlined in the Global Charter.

This will likely involve reviewing current child protection systems, training social workers, and expanding programs that keep families together.

Monitoring progress and ensuring accountability will be key to turning intentions into tangible improvements for children across the country.

The UK is expected to continue providing technical and financial support as Sri Lanka transitions toward family-based care models, reinforcing a shared commitment to safeguarding children’s rights and wellbeing.

Summary

Sri Lanka’s decision to join the Global Charter for Children’s Care Reform marks a milestone in the country’s efforts to protect vulnerable children.

By prioritizing family-based care and reducing reliance on institutions, the country is aligning with global best practices.

With UK support and a roadmap for reform, this initiative aims to restore hope, improve child welfare, and strengthen families across Sri Lanka.