Child abuse in Pakistan has surged dramatically in the first half of 2025, with a private child protection organization reporting a 20% increase in such cases compared to the same period last year. The data paints a troubling picture of rising violence, neglect, and exploitation of minors across the country.

From January to June 2025, at least 1,956 incidents involving children were reported. These included 605 cases of abduction, 453 instances of sexual assault, and 192 cases where children either disappeared or were found dead. Shockingly, 31 children were murdered following sexual abuse, while 34 others were subjected to ritualistic or extreme violence.

The victims were nearly evenly split by gender, with 1,079 girls and 875 boys affected. The report also recorded 62 newborns among the victims and cited incidents involving sexual exploitation and coerced physical relations.

Punjab Leads in Reported Cases, Urban Areas Most Affected

Geographically, Punjab remained the most affected province, accounting for 72% of the total cases. Sindh followed with 22%, while the remaining cases were scattered across other regions. The majority of the abuse occurred in urban areas (59%), suggesting that densely populated cities may be more vulnerable due to anonymity, overcrowding, and lack of oversight.

According to Dr. Munizeh Bano, Executive Director of the reporting NGO, most of the victims were between 11 and 15 years old, many of whom belonged to marginalized or economically disadvantaged families.

“These children live in environments where their safety is overlooked or compromised daily,” said Dr. Bano. “We’re not only witnessing more cases, but we’re also seeing a rise in the cruelty and lack of consequences for perpetrators.”

Underreporting and Legal Barriers Persist

The report also spotlighted a persistent issue: underreporting. While 83% of the cases were officially registered with police, 15% were never reported. In 27 cases, families refrained from contacting authorities due to fear, shame, or social stigma. In one instance, police refused to lodge a First Information Report (FIR), effectively silencing the victims’ voices.

This culture of silence and weak accountability enables many abusers to avoid justice, perpetuating a cycle of violence.

Call for Urgent Action

The findings have sparked renewed calls for stronger child protection policies, awareness campaigns, and reforms in the criminal justice system. Child rights advocates are urging the government to create safer environments for children, improve support services for victims, and hold law enforcement accountable for inaction.

Without urgent intervention, experts warn, Pakistan’s growing child abuse crisis could escalate further—placing thousands more at risk in the coming months.