Punjab Province in Pakistan Approves First Comprehensive Child Protection Policy
On June 5, 2025, the Punjab Cabinet of Pakistan announced a historic decision by approving the province’s first Comprehensive Child Protection Policy. This groundbreaking measure is designed to strengthen the safety and well-being of children throughout Punjab, setting a major precedent for the region.
The policy was carefully developed by the Child Protection and Welfare Bureau in collaboration with UNICEF Pakistan. Officials stress that this initiative aims to build a safer, more just, and nurturing environment for every child in Punjab. The drive for the policy has been strongly associated with the leadership and commitment of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on matters of child protection.
Sarah Ahmad, Chairperson of the Child Protection and Welfare Bureau, expressed deep appreciation for Chief Minister Nawaz’s leadership, stating that the approval of this policy represents more than an administrative act; it is a symbol of hope and a transformative milestone in the fight to defend and empower children. Ahmad noted that the new policy creates the foundation for a strong and coordinated system to safeguard all children from abuse, violence, neglect, exploitation, and other harmful practices in Punjab, upholding their safety and dignity. It is anchored in the principles of both the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) and the Constitution of Pakistan—thus reflecting both international standards and national legal frameworks.
A key aspect of the policy is multi-sector cooperation, uniting families, schools, communities, and government agencies to address child protection concerns. The policy establishes specific protocols, procedures, and services to tackle child protection issues and seeks to reinforce both the legal and social support systems for children.
To guarantee effective implementation, the policy outlines provisions for specialized training for social service workers, enhancing their capacity to serve vulnerable children. The policy also brings in a digital Case Management and Referral System (CP-CMRS) to help track individual cases and enable timely interventions. Alongside this, a centralized Management Information System (MIS) will streamline data collection, improve coordination between agencies, and ensure efficient follow-up.
This milestone policy is being celebrated as a vital step forward for child rights in Punjab, laying the groundwork for lasting change.