Experts highlight perils of child trafficking

Urge collaborative efforts to create effective solutions, combat abuse

ISLAMABAD:

A panel discussion Thursday underscored the need for collective efforts in addressing urgent challenges posed by child trafficking in Pakistan.

Stakeholders emphasised the importance of collaborative efforts to create effective solutions in the ongoing fight against the heinous crime.

Special Assistant to Prime Minister Mushaal Hussein Mullick said child trafficking is a violation of the fundamental rights of our most vulnerable population.

The panel discussion featured prominent experts in the field, including Social Services and Development Organisation Executive Director Kausar Abbas, Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Anti-Human Smuggling Unit former Director Zaheer Ahmed, Azam Tabani from National Police Bureau, and Shahida Gilani, Senior Programme Officer specialising in Human Trafficking and Migrant Smuggling.

On the other hand, the National Commission on the Rights of Child (NCRC) unveiled a three-year strategic plan and a policy brief on child trafficking to promote and protect child rights.

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By the year 2026, the strategic plan aims to deliver a measurable improvement in the enforcement of child rights, making every effort that this promise is translated into impactful evidence-based actions by state entities and civil society.

A news statement stated that this initiative is a result of a comprehensive desk review and consultative process with key stakeholders, child rights experts, and voices from civil society.

A key priority outlined in the strategic plan is the focus on evidence generation and knowledge. The NCRC aims to build a robust foundation of evidence-based practices, equipping policymakers and stakeholders with the insights needed to inform impactful policies and interventions.

Emphasising collaboration as a cornerstone, the NCRC's strategic plan prioritises partnerships with diverse stakeholders. The collaborative approach recognises the collective responsibility of all sectors to protect and promote the rights of children in Pakistan.

“Finally, the strategic plan is not just a document; it represents a commitment to transformative actions,” the communique read. Addressing the launching ceremony of the plan, NCRC Chairperson Ayesha Raza Farooq emphasised the potential impact of the strategic plan. "This is not just a roadmap, it is a commitment to transforming the destiny of our children. By implementing evidence-based strategies and fostering partnerships, we aim to actively enforce the rights of every child in Pakistan," she added. Dr Rinchen Chophel, Member of the United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), in his remarks, said the commission's strategic plan is a beacon of hope, providing a roadmap for transformative actions.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 26^th, 2024.