Pakistan joined the international community on June 12, 2026, in marking World Day Against Child Labour, with officials renewing pledges to protect children from exploitation and ensure access to education. The observance highlighted constitutional safeguards and ongoing efforts to combat child labour across the country.
Constitutional Foundations for Child Protection
The protection of children is enshrined in Pakistan’s Constitution. Article 11 explicitly prohibits slavery, forced labour, and the employment of children in hazardous work. Additionally, Article 25-A guarantees free and compulsory education for all children between the ages of five and sixteen. These provisions establish a clear state responsibility to safeguard childhood and promote educational access.
Pakistan continues to implement measures at both federal and provincial levels to reduce child labour and strengthen child protection systems. Current efforts focus on prevention, enforcement of existing laws, and support for children who need to return to education and stable environments. Authorities emphasize a multi-pronged approach involving legal action, awareness campaigns, and rehabilitation programs. Officials urged parents, employers, teachers, religious leaders, civil society organizations, and all citizens to play their part in protecting children from exploitation and keeping them in school. The message underscored that a society is judged by how it treats its children, and every child in Pakistan must have the opportunity to learn, grow, and build a secure future.Government Initiatives and Prevention Efforts
Call for Collective Action
