Unicef concern over child abuse

The problem persists despite several child abusers punished

Unicef’s concern over the increase in Punjab child abuse cases are unsettling. Since 2015, child abuse in Punjab has been the subject of lengthy investigations and analysis by the media. Several child abusers have been made examples out of, likewise. Despite this action, Unicef’s concern points out that the problem has not been resolved. In fact, even with the few cases that have been solved, the problem has only spread. Unicef Punjab and relevant government departments for child protection need to work more closely with law-enforcement agencies to achieve common goals.

Several laws are in place for child protection, such as the Punjab Destitute and Neglected Children’s Act 2004. Furthermore, Pakistan is a signatory to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, vowing state protection to children. However, as we typically fail in the following area, implementation and enforcement of the rules governing child protection remain missing. For this reason, law enforcement and lawmakers require better collaboration. In addition, children should be taught basic lessons on personal body safety as well as how to report abuse. It would be beneficial to incorporate this into school curricula, mandated by the state. Imparting education to students and parents would facilitate taking criminals to task and stop them from harming more children.

In 2017, as many as 3,450 children were sexually abused in the country, and approximately two-thirds of that number was reported from the province of Punjab alone. We must empower children to feel safe in reporting unsafe touch and train adults to investigate if a child alludes to possibly being abused. Recognising that children are the future of this country, we need to provide strong support and prevent inappropriate behaviour from criminal adults who exploit children such as in the way of sexual harm or forced marriage.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 23^rd, 2018.

Like Opinion & Editorial on Facebook, follow @ETOpEd on Twitter to receive all updates on all our daily pieces.