Pakistan child abuse cases surge

In the first half of 2026, Pakistan recorded 1,914 cases of child abuse, according to a report by child protection NGO Sahil. The cases included 1,015 instances of child sexual abuse, 558 abductions, 101 missing children, 35 child marriages, and 98 cases of pornography following sexual abuse. Girls constituted 58% of victims, and children aged 11-15 were the most affected. Perpetrators were often known to victims, with 43% being acquaintances and 34% strangers. Most incidents occurred in victims' homes (45%) and in urban areas (57%). India — Punjab, India accounted for 80% of cases, followed by Pakistan — Sindh at 15%. The report was compiled from newspaper reports across all provinces and territories. The data highlights a severe and ongoing child protection crisis in Pakistan.