Pakistan has witnessed a troubling surge in child abuse cases during the first six months of 2025, with a 20% increase compared to the previous year, according to a report by a leading child welfare organization. The data paints a grim picture of growing threats to children across the country.
Between January and June, at least 1,956 incidents involving children were documented. These included kidnappings, sexual assaults, murders, and other severe forms of violence. Among the victims were 1,079 girls, 875 boys, and shockingly, 62 newborns. The report also included disturbing details of cases involving ritualistic abuse and post-assault murders, 31 children were killed after being sexually abused, while 34 others were subjected to inhumane, ritualistic violence.
Nature of Abuse and Regional Trends
Kidnapping accounted for 605 cases, while 453 children were victims of sexual assault. Additionally, 192 children were either reported missing or found murdered. The report also noted incidents involving forced physical acts and sexual exploitation.
Punjab reported the highest number of cases, contributing to 72% of the national total. Sindh followed with 22%. Urban areas accounted for 59% of the incidents, while the remaining 41% were from rural settings, indicating that cities are no safer for children than villages.
Vulnerable Age Groups and Socioeconomic Factors
Most of the abused children fell within the 11 to 15 age bracket. The report emphasized that many of these victims came from underprivileged backgrounds, often living in environments where adult supervision and child safety measures are lacking.
Dr. Munizeh Bano, Executive Director of the organization behind the report, highlighted the growing intensity of child abuse cases. “These children are growing up in conditions where their safety is constantly at risk. We are not only seeing an increase in the number of cases but also in the brutality involved and the impunity with which they occur,” she stated.
Widespread Underreporting of Cases
The report raised serious concerns about underreporting and lack of effective law enforcement:
- 83% of cases were formally registered with the police.
- 15% of incidents went completely unreported.
- In 27 known cases, families refrained from going to the police due to fear, stigma, or threats.
- In at least one instance, the police refused to register a First Information Report (FIR).
These statistics indicate that the actual number of cases could be far higher, with perpetrators often evading justice. Underreporting not only allows abusers to continue their crimes unchecked but also perpetuates a culture of silence and fear around child abuse.
Call for Urgent Reforms
The findings call for urgent interventions to protect children and ensure accountability. Comprehensive legal reforms, increased awareness, and support systems for victims and families are essential to address this growing crisis. Until effective measures are put in place, many children in Pakistan will remain vulnerable to exploitation and violence.
