Rights defenders have called for immediate enforcement of the Child Protection Policy approved by the Punjab cabinet.

The Executive Director of Search for Justice, Iftikhar Mubarak, emphasised the need for dedicated funding to ensure that the policy does not remain a symbolic gesture. “It is essential that the upcoming provincial budget includes a clear financial commitment to child protection and welfare,” he said, advocating for a unified action plan that clearly defines the responsibilities of all relevant departments.

Children Advocacy Network Pakistan Convener Rasheeda Qureshi called for the integration of child protection measures into the annual development and operational budgets of all public sector departments. She also recommended the introduction of child protection budgeting guidelines to ensure equitable resource distribution and strengthen accountability mechanisms.

Child Rights Movement Punjab Coordinator Mudassar Ahmad stressed the urgency of swift implementation. He proposed the establishment of child protection committees at the district and tehsil levels to localise and operationalise the policy. “The bureau’s role has now expanded – it must strengthen interdepartmental coordination for moving forward,” he added.

The civil society representatives urged the Punjab government not to stop at policy approval.