The State of Children in Pakistan 2024

Highlights

The State of Children in Pakistan 2024 report has been prepared in compliance with Sections 15 and 17 of the National Commission on the Rights of Child (NCRC) Act, 2017, providing an evidence based assessment of the status of children across the country. As part of its statutory mandate to monitor and report on progress in realizing children’s rights, the NCRC has developed this report using disaggregated data and analytical evidence to evaluate Pakistan’s compliance with national legal frameworks and international obligations, particularly the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC). 

The scope and thematic priorities of the report were identified in line with the NCRC’s Strategic Plan 2023-26, ensuring alignment with its mandate and national child rights agenda. Structured around systemic factors affecting children’s rights and well-being, the report begins with a childcentred demographic and socio-economic profile of Pakistan. The report discusses Pakistan’s international obligations and Pakistan’s engagement with international human rights mechanisms and frameworks. On this basis, the report adopts a thematic approach and examines children’s rights across the four core pillars of the UNCRC: development, survival, protection, and participation. Each section examines emerging trends, legal frameworks, institutional responses, and disparities. The report also seeks to draw attention to emerging issues such as climaterelated vulnerabilities, child online protection and the situation of marginalised groups. The report concludes each thematic area with targeted recommendations for policymakers, civil society organisations, and development partners to inform the design of responsive and effective child-focused policies and programmes in Pakistan.