Pakistan’s child abuse problem

Various forms of violence against children, including physical, sexual, neglect, emotional, and psychological abuse, constitute a grave violation of their rights. Despite its widespread prevalence, child abuse remains largely unacknowledged as a social issue in Pakistan. Shockingly, Pakistan ranks among the leading countries globally for Child Sexual Abuse (CSA), with approximately 550,000 children falling victim to abuse annually.

The recent report by the child rights NGO Sahil, titled ‘Cruel Numbers 2023’, sheds light on the dire situation faced by Pakistani children, emphasizing the urgent need for systemic changes to protect this vulnerable segment of society. The report unveils a disturbing reality, revealing that an average of 11 children endure abuse every day.

These reported numbers only scratch the surface, as many incidents go unreported due to stigma, fear, or lack of awareness. Children experience abuse in places where they should feel safest – their homes, neighborhoods, and schools. Tragically, some children are even subjected to labor exploitation, as evidenced by the tragic case of a 12-year-old domestic worker who was tortured to death.

It’s depressing that despite Pakistan ratifying the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child almost 34 years ago, the country still lacks a comprehensive child protection mechanism aligned with international standards. These statistics serve as a wake-up call for stronger child protection measures, enhanced support systems for victims, and a societal shift to break the silence surrounding this issue. Collaboration between the government, non-profit organizations, and communities is essential to create a safer environment for Pakistani children. This entails educational campaigns, stricter enforcement of child protection laws, and accessible reporting channels to combat the scourge of child abuse and ensure the well-being of every child.