ISLAMABAD: Pakistan records a terefying 20% increase in the cases of child abuse across the country during the first half of 2025.
The shocking details were revealed by a private child welfare organization, exposing the dark realities of society.
At least 1956 cases of child abuse were reported, including murders, sexual assault, and kidnapping from January to June 2025.
605 children were kidnapped, 453 were sexually molested, and 192 were either reported missing or discovered dead, according to the report. 31 children died following sexual assault, while 34 children experienced inhumane and ritualistic brutality.
Data shows that the victims include 1,079 girls, 875 boys, and 62 newborns. The report also mentioned cases of homosexuality and forced physical relations.
Punjab leads the data with 72% of the total reported cases, while Sindh follows with 22%.
Urban areas are the most affected region with 59% of reported cases, while rural areas record 41%.
According to an official of the reporting NGO, the majority of victims were between the ages of 11 and 15, and they were from low-income, vulnerable locations where youngsters are frequently left unprotected.
“These children are growing up in conditions where their safety is constantly at risk,” adding that “We are witnessing not only a rise in the number of cases but also in the brutality and impunity surrounding them.”
The report also highlighted major gaps in reporting and justice delivery. The report indicates that 83% of cases were registered by police, while 15% went unreported entirely.
Moreover, in 27 cases, families did not approach the police out of fear or stigma.
In one case, the police refused to file an FIR. This lack of reporting and response allows abusers to escape accountability, further endangering children.
