Colombo: Punjab Child Protection and Welfare Bureau (CPWB) Chairperson and MPA Sarah Ahmad has reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening child protection systems and ending violence against children.
According to Beyond Time News, she made the remarks while addressing the South Asia Ministerial Conference on Ending Violence Against Children held in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
The conference brought together government officials, international organizations, and development partners from across South Asia.
Pakistan Highlights Child Protection Progress
Sarah Ahmad said child protection is a key national priority for Pakistan.
She said nearly half of Pakistan’s population consists of children, making their safety essential for the country’s future.
She outlined steps taken by Pakistan to improve child protection systems.
These include stronger laws, improved institutions, and better coordination between agencies.
According to Beyond Time News, she also highlighted the expansion of Child Protection Units across the country.
Strengthening Child Protection Systems
The CPWB chair said Pakistan is improving reporting and referral systems for child abuse cases.
She also noted efforts to promote positive parenting programs.
Online child safety measures are also being expanded.
Pakistan is also working on its first National Strategic Action Plan on Violence Against Children.
Officials say these reforms aim to create a safer environment for children across the country.
Commitment to Global Child Rights Frameworks
Sarah Ahmad said Pakistan remains committed to international child protection agreements.
These include the Convention on the Rights of the Child and the Sustainable Development Goals.
She said Pakistan is also following commitments made at global forums on child protection.
According to Beyond Time News, she stressed the need for continued progress at both national and international levels.
Focus on Regional Cooperation
The conference emphasized cooperation among South Asian countries.
Participants discussed shared challenges such as child labour, abuse, exploitation, and online threats.
Sarah Ahmad said regional cooperation is important to tackle these issues effectively.
She called for stronger knowledge sharing between countries.
Experts said cross-border collaboration can improve child protection systems in the region.
Delegation and Participation
The Pakistani delegation included Ministry of Human Rights Secretary Abdul Khaliq Sheikh and Director General Muhammad Arshad.
Sri Lankan Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya attended the event as chief guest.
Sarah Ahmad praised Sri Lanka’s efforts in promoting regional cooperation on child welfare.
Why Child Protection Matters
Child protection remains a major policy focus for developing countries like Pakistan.
Officials say investing in child welfare improves education, health, and long-term economic outcomes.
Experts believe strong protection systems help reduce violence and improve social stability.
Conclusion
The Colombo conference highlighted renewed regional commitment to ending violence against children.
Pakistan reiterated its focus on legal reforms, institutional strengthening, and international cooperation.
Officials said continued collaboration will be essential to ensure a safer future for children across South Asia.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Sarah Ahmad say at the conference?
She said Pakistan is committed to strengthening child protection and ending violence against children.
Where was the conference held?
The South Asia Ministerial Conference was held in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
What steps did Pakistan highlight?
Pakistan highlighted legal reforms, Child Protection Units, online safety measures, and new national action plans.
Why is child protection important?
It ensures safety, improves development outcomes, and supports long-term national progress.
Which organizations organized the conference?
The event was jointly organized by SAARC, UNICEF, and the World Health Organization.
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