Experts Warn that Minimal Sentences Fuel Child Exploitation in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD, Sept 17 – Child‑rights specialists warn that the minimal sentences handed down in Pakistan’s sexual‑abuse cases are inadvertently encouraging repeat offences. A comprehensive review of newspaper reports across eight provinces and territories shows that low conviction rates are a key factor behind the rise in child exploitation.

The report cites two high‑profile tragedies: the fatal assault on 18‑month‑old Aizal in Karachi, perpetrated by a teenage relative, and the recovery of five‑year‑old Ayat Noor’s body from a well, a case that also involved sexual abuse.

From January through June 2026, Sahil documented 1,914 incidents involving children, including 49 newborns found abandoned, 1,015 sexual‑abuse cases, 558 kidnappings, 101 missing‑child reports, 98 pornographic‑material offenses, and 35 child‑marriage entries.

Girls made up 58 % of the victims. The age breakdown was 598 children aged 11‑15, 356 aged 16‑18, 329 aged 6‑10, and 95 under five; 487 cases omitted age details.

Perpetrators were known to the child in 43 % of the cases, whereas 34 % were strangers. Urban centres accounted for 57 % of the offenses, with the rest occurring in rural communities.

Although Pakistan has strengthened the statutory framework for punishments, the investigative process remains sluggish, and many cases never reach a verdict. Long court delays, inadequate follow‑up and the practice of examining a suspect’s mobile phone often uncover additional victims, yet few result in convictions.

The report stresses that socioeconomic factors—such as poverty, child labour, early marriage and an insecure environment—compound the legal shortcomings. Without swift justice and stronger protective mechanisms, the country’s children will continue to face heightened risk.

Authorities are being called upon to establish fast‑track courts, improve forensic capabilities, and ensure that victims receive comprehensive rehabilitation.