ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Wednes­day launched its first national strategy, seeking to establish a coordinated system for preventing abuse, strengthening child protection and ensuring access to care and justice for millions of vulnerable children across the country.

The National Strategy to End Violence Against Children (2026-2031) was launched by Parliamentary Secretary for Human Rights Saba Sadiq during a national preparatory consultation for the Second Global Ministerial Conference on Ending Violence Against Children, scheduled to be held in Manila in November.

Developed by the Ministry of Human Rights in collaboration with the World Health Organisation (WHO), the strategy comes against the backdrop of widespread violence and exploitation affecting children across the country.

According to the strategy, up to eight in 10 children in Pakistan experience violent discipline, while one in 16 internet-using children aged 12 to 17 faces technology-facilitated sexual exploitation or abuse.

It also says 841,402 children aged 10 to 17 had been married, while millions remain engaged in child labour.

The strategy further highlights the vulnerability of children who are displaced, migrants or living in poor and informal urban settlements.

It seeks to address multiple forms of violence, including physical and sexual abuse, psychological violence, neglect, child marriage, trafficking, child labour and technology-facilitated exploitation.

The framework, based on the internationally recognised INSPIRE approach, focuses on stronger laws, safer environments, support for parents and caregivers, financial stability, response services and life skills.

Published in Dawn, October 15th, 2026