by Yousaf Benjamin

In the first five months of 2012, 122 cases were recorded, including 40 incidents of child sexual abuse, 14 murders and 22 abductions. Children rights activists call for long-term programmes to help victims. Suicides among children are up. In civil society, demands for action increase.

Lahore (AsiaNews) - A meeting at the end of the Week against Violence against Children (28 May-1 June) saw the government of Pakistan criticised for failing to protect children but also a call for a renewed commitment to protect the rights of children and minors who are victims of violence.

Research by the Society for the Protection of the Rights of the Child (SPARC) indicates that violence against children is on the increase. In the province of Punjab, the incidence of kidnapping for ransom, early marriages, murders and sexual abuse is taking its toll.

In the first five months of 2012, 122 cases of violations were recorded, including 40 incidents of child sexual abuse, 14 murders, 22 abductions, 14 cases of corporal punishment, 6 early marriage, and 13 deaths due to poor medical care.

For SPARC programme officer Sobia John, "There should be long-term planning for the protection of children". What is more, "The government should set up institutions that provide psychological assistance to depressed children," she told AsiaNews. "It is the duty of the whole of society, particularly the government, teachers and parents, to create a friendly atmosphere for our next generation". Instead, neglect and depression is pushing more and more children to take their own lives.

Collective and individual security is a responsibility of the state, SPARC regional direction Sajjad Cheema said. Institutions seem to be "silent spectators" to the rising tide of violence against children, including murders.

Poor law implementation is among the reason for this criminal wave. "Until the government makes serious efforts, such barbarous incidents will continue to haunt the younger generation", he warned.

SPARC has launched a number of initiatives to counter violence against children. They include demonstrations and days to raise awareness in public opinion, media and civil society about the importance of child protection.

It is tough being a child in Pakistan. For this reason, it is important for those who are fighting for the future of the next generation and the protection of children to raise their voice.

• pakistan
• child
• protection
• abuses
• violence
• law