The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has warned that the country’s child protection system is struggling to address online sexual exploitation and abuse. In a report released in October 2026, the commission highlighted underreporting, weak coordination between institutions and inadequate safeguards as major obstacles to protecting children online.
The HRCP says online child sexual abuse should not be treated solely as a cybercrime issue. It must also be recognised as a violation of children’s fundamental rights, dignity and safety.
HRCP Highlights Gaps in Child Protection
According to the commission, many cases remain hidden because victims and their families do not report abuse, while relevant institutions face challenges coordinating investigations and providing protection.
The report refers to a case reported in Muzaffargarh in 2025, in which at least 50 children, including children aged six or younger, were allegedly sexually exploited through an international network.
The findings highlight the need for stronger reporting systems and a coordinated response from authorities to identify victims, investigate allegations and hold perpetrators accountable.
More Than Two Million Reports Linked to Pakistan in 2021
The HRCP report cites data from the US-based National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, stating that reports linked to suspected child sexual abuse material in Pakistan exceeded two million in 2021.
However, these figures represent reports of suspected online activity, not the number of individual children abused.
Separate research released by UNICEF and its partners in September 2026 estimated that approximately 1.5 million Pakistani children aged 12 to 17 experienced at least one form of technology-facilitated sexual exploitation or abuse in a single year.
The findings underline the scale of online safety concerns and the importance of reliable data, accessible reporting channels and effective support services.
HRCP Calls for Stronger Institutional Coordination
The commission has urged child protection authorities, police, cybercrime investigators, prosecutors and the judiciary to work together more effectively.
Its recommendations include:
-
Improving coordination between institutions investigating online child abuse.
-
Strengthening child protection mechanisms and institutional accountability.
-
Providing affected children with legal assistance, psychological support and rehabilitation.
-
Encouraging online platforms to take greater responsibility for children’s safety.
-
Improving investigation procedures so children can report abuse and receive appropriate protection.
The HRCP stressed that awareness campaigns alone will not solve the problem without effective enforcement and stronger protection systems.
Read more similar news in our local category.
Stronger Online Safety Measures Needed
The findings add to growing concerns about children’s safety on digital platforms in Pakistan. UNICEF’s research also identified barriers such as fear, stigma, victim-blaming and a lack of trust in authorities, which can prevent children from seeking help.
Addressing these risks requires coordinated action by government institutions, law enforcement agencies, schools, families and technology companies. The priority, according to the reports, should be to prevent abuse, make reporting safer and ensure that affected children receive appropriate support.
If you want to read more news like this visit supernews.pk