Puthiya Kural Foundation

Defending
Free Voices
in Sri Lanka

For Tamil Journalists, Activists & Independent Media

We stand alongside those who speak truth to power — supporting Tamil journalists, human rights defenders, and small media outlets facing persecution in Sri Lanka.

Puthiya Kural Foundation
150+
Journalists Supported
40+
Media Outlets Aided
12+
Years of Service
300+
Cases Documented
Press Freedom · Sri Lanka Tamil Journalist Protection Human Rights Documentation Independent Media Support Safety Training & Advocacy Digital Security Resources Press Freedom · Sri Lanka Tamil Journalist Protection Human Rights Documentation Independent Media Support Safety Training & Advocacy Digital Security Resources

A new voice for those
who have been silenced

Puthiya Kural — meaning "New Voice" in Tamil — was founded on the belief that a free press is the cornerstone of any just society. In Sri Lanka, Tamil journalists and human rights activists face ongoing threats: surveillance, legal persecution, harassment, and violence.

"When a journalist is silenced, an entire community loses its witness. We exist to ensure those voices endure."

The Puthiya Kural Foundation works to protect, empower, and sustain independent Tamil media and civil society voices in Sri Lanka. Through direct support, advocacy, and capacity-building, we ensure that stories of the Tamil people are told — accurately, safely, and freely.

Our Three Pillars of Action

Every programme we run traces back to three core commitments: protect, empower, and amplify.

01

Protect Journalists at Risk

We provide emergency support, legal assistance, and relocation aid for journalists facing imminent danger. No one should face imprisonment or violence for telling the truth.

02

Empower Human Rights Defenders

We equip activists with digital security training, documentation skills, and international advocacy networks so their work can continue safely and effectively.

03

Sustain Independent Media

We provide operational grants, technical resources, and editorial support to small Tamil-language media outlets that serve communities underrepresented in mainstream Sri Lankan press.

Why This Work Matters Now

Sri Lanka continues to rank among the most dangerous countries in Asia for journalists, particularly those from Tamil communities in the North and East. Decades of civil conflict left deep wounds — and a press landscape scarred by decades of state censorship, forced disappearances, and targeted attacks on Tamil reporters.

Small Tamil-language outlets operate under constant pressure: shrinking advertising revenue, surveillance by authorities, and the chilling effect of watching colleagues face arrest. Many have no access to legal counsel, no digital security expertise, and no international networks to amplify their work when they come under threat.

Puthiya Kural Foundation bridges this gap — connecting local Tamil media and activists with global solidarity, resources, and protection.

See Our Programs →
RSF
Reporters Without Borders ranks Sri Lanka among the most press-restricted nations in South Asia.
100+
Tamil journalists documented as targets of harassment, detention, or legal action since 2009.
70%
Of small Tamil media outlets report having no access to legal or digital security support.

How We Help

Emergency Response

Journalist Safety Fund

Rapid-response financial assistance for journalists facing arrest, forced displacement, or threats to their safety. Funds cover legal fees, relocation costs, and immediate security needs.

Contribute to the Fund →
Capacity Building

Digital Security Training

Workshops and one-on-one coaching in digital security best practices — encrypted communications, source protection, online anonymity — tailored to Tamil journalists and activists.

Get Involved →
Institutional Support

Small Media Grants

Operational grants for Tamil-language independent media outlets, helping sustain reporting on communities in the North and East of Sri Lanka that mainstream media ignores.

Apply for Support →
Documentation

Human Rights Archive

A living archive documenting cases of press freedom violations, disappearances, and attacks on Tamil civil society — preserving evidence and building accountability.

Access the Archive →

Our People

Led by journalists, activists, and diaspora community members committed to a free and vibrant Tamil press.

S
Santhiya R.
Executive Director
M
Muthu V.
Programs Lead
K
Kavitha N.
Advocacy Director
Stand With Us

Every Voice Silenced
is a Story Lost Forever

Your support keeps Tamil journalism alive. Whether through a donation, volunteering your skills, or spreading awareness — you can help protect those who speak truth under pressure.