Study on Factors Influencing Child Abuse in Plantation Sector in Sri Lanka

Child abuse is neither a recent phenomenon nor confined to specific historical periods or cultures. It encompasses the physical and emotional ill-treatment, sexual abuse, neglect, and exploitation that harm a child’s health, survival, development, or dignity. This study focuses on the prevalence and contributing factors of child abuse in Sri Lanka, with a particular emphasis on the plantation sector. Sri Lanka is divided into urban, rural, and estate sectors, each with a distinct socio-economic status. The estate sector is more vulnerable and it faces particularly severe hardships, including inadequate resources, low literacy, economic poverty, and social marginalization. The Malayaha community has a tragic history of discrimination, exploitation and violence. Alcohol consumption is a habitual practice within this community and it leads to create domestic violence and exacerbating the vulnerabilities of children. Based on that, the study aims to identify the factors influencing child abuse in the plantation sector. This study employed qualitative methods for data collection. The tools used included direct observation, key informant interviews, FGD, and a review of secondary data. Data was gathered through open-ended individual interviews and the findings were analyzed thematically. The data collection took place in the Pupuressa Division, located in the Central Province of the Kandy District. A total of 20 key informant interviews were conducted with key professionals and conducted focus group discussions. The study revealed that the physical and social environment of the estate sector was conducive to committing child abuse. Moreover, economic difficulties within families have resulted family dysfunction, neglect of children’s basic needs, poor parenting, parental migration, emotional distress, muted voices of children, and obstacles in accessing education, healthcare, and safety. The economic structure of the estate sector has a profound influence on child protection. Mothers leave their children alone at home during working hours, unintentionally exposing them to the risk of sexual abuse. Substance abuse among estate workers further exacerbates the prevalence of child abuse. Additionally, limited access to government services in the estate sector and weak engagement with relevant agencies contribute to significant service delivery gaps. These factors increase parental economic involvement and increase the risks of children. This study recommends increased awareness among parents, particularly regarding children’s rights and the necessary protections for their well-being. Address harmful parental behaviors such as alcoholism and domestic violence and improve child protection measures. In addition, economic empowerment of families, schools, and communities is strongly recommended. Strengthening community-based child protection mechanisms is also vital. Also, enhancing law enforcement efforts and establishing strong structures to support these initiatives are recommended.