Teenage pregnancies on the rise in Sri Lanka: NCPA

By Huzefa Aliasger

Sri Lanka is witnessing a rise in teenage pregnancy and sexual abuse, with 28 cases reported during the first half of this year, according to the latest data from the National Child Protection Authority (NCPA).

According to the NCPA, teenage pregnancy, often a direct consequence of sexual abuse, has seen a marked increase, with 28 cases reported in the first half of 2024 compared to 18 in the same period of 2023, representing a concerning rise of 55.5%.

In tandem with this, reports of rape and grave sexual abuse have also remained persistently high. In 2024 alone, 23 cases of rape have been reported so far, nearly half of the total 50 cases recorded in 2023, suggesting that the year might close with an even higher figure. Additionally, 157 cases of grave sexual abuse were documented in the first six months of 2024, continuing a troubling trend from previous years, the NCPA said.

As the statistics from the NCPA reveal, the situation is becoming increasingly dire. The increase in reported cases of teenage pregnancy and sexual abuse underscores the vulnerability of Sri Lankan youth, particularly girls, who are disproportionately affected by these crimes.