A crisis of unimaginable proportions grips Pakistan as child sexual abuse cases skyrocket, exposing alarming gaps in protection mechanisms.
The Sustainable Social Development Organization (SSDO) has released a five-year report highlighting alarming statistics on child sexual abuse across Pakistan’s four provinces—Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Balochistan—spanning data from 2019 to 2023.
According to the report, 5,398 cases of child sexual abuse were documented over the five years, with Punjab accounting for the highest percentage at 62%, totaling 3,323 cases. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa reported 1,360 cases (25.1%), Sindh 458 cases (8.5%), and Balochistan 257 cases (5%).
A concerning 220% increase in reported cases was observed during this period. Lahore, Punjab’s capital, had the highest number of incidents (1,176 cases), while the less populated Kolai Pallas Kohistan in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa reported 84 cases despite its population of only 158,000 minors.
The SSDO has proposed urgent measures to combat the growing crisis, including stricter enforcement of existing laws, specialized training for law enforcement and judicial authorities, the effective implementation of fast-track courts under the Zainab Alert Act, and awareness campaigns. Recommendations also stress improving reporting systems, fostering institutional collaboration, and establishing a national database for child abuse cases.
The report emphasizes supporting survivors through child-friendly spaces, trauma counseling, and financial aid. Additionally, it calls for a robust legal framework to address emerging challenges like online exploitation and human trafficking.
SSDO Executive Director Syed Kausar Abbas expressed grave concern over the figures, highlighting the devastating impact on innocent lives. He urged the government, law enforcement, and civil society to collaborate in eliminating the root causes of abuse and ensuring a safe environment for children. Abbas emphasized that child protection must become a national priority.
The report calls for an immediate review of child protection policies in Punjab and the elimination of systemic gaps in other provinces through coordinated efforts between governmental bodies and civil society.