Outline: Introduction
Definition of Child Protection.
The significance of child protection legislation and the legal structures at both international and national levels.
International Framework for Child Protection
UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC)
Key Provisions
Role in developing national legislation.
International Labour Organisation (ILO) Conventions
Child Labour and Exploitation
Other International Instruments
The Hague Convention for the Protection of Children includes optional protocols and treaties.
National Legal Framework in Pakistan
Constitutional Provisions
Rights of children under Pakistan’s Constitution
Major legislation
The Juvenile Justice System Act (2018
Child Protection (Criminal Laws) Amendment Act of 2016
The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2017
The Employment of Children Act (1991)
Provincial Child Protection Laws and Initiatives
Types of Child Protection Issues Addressed by Law
Child Labour: Legal Definitions and Prohibitions
Enforcement Mechanisms
Child Abuse and Exploitation
Sexual abuse.
Physical and emotional abuse.
Human Trafficking
Juvenile justice
Treatment of Children in Conflict with the Law
Rehabilitation and reintegration.
Child Marriage.
The legal age for marriage
Punishments and enforcement
Educational and Health Rights
Right to a free and compulsory education.
Access to Healthcare
Implementation and Enforcement of Child Protection Legislation
The Role of Government Agencies
Child protection authorities on a national and provincial level
Role of law enforcement
Judicial Role
Family and Juvenile Courts
Landmark judgements
Challenges in Implementation:
Resource restrictions
Cultural and social obstacles
Coordination of agencies
Case Studies
Notable cases in Pakistan.
Overview of major cases that established child protection law and their impact on legislation and enforcement.
Comparative Analysis
Case studies from various nations
Lessons for Pakistan
- Public Awareness and Role of Civil Society
- Role of NGOs and Advocacy Groups
- Initiatives by local and international NGOs
- Public campaigns and education
- Media’s Role
- Coverage of child protection issues
- Influence on public opinion and policy
- Challenges and Recommendations
- Key Challenges
- Gaps in legislation
- Issues with enforcement
- Socio-cultural barriers
Recommendations for Improving Child Protection Legal Reforms
Improved enforcement methods.
Improved public awareness and education
Conclusion
Summary of results.
The Future of Child Protection in Pakistan
The necessity for ongoing activism and reform.