Pakistan reviews global child protection models at ISPCAN congress

Pakistan reviews global child protection models at ISPCAN congress

MELBOURNE: Pakistan is exploring international child protection models and best practices at the ISPCAN 2026 World Congress in Melbourne, with its delegation focusing on ways to strengthen the country’s child protection system.

The three-day congress, being held from August 24 to 26 under the theme “Transforming Approaches to Safety and Healing,” has brought together researchers, policymakers, practitioners, child rights advocates and young people from around the world.

The event provides a platform for participants to exchange research, share successful practices and discuss practical strategies to improve child safety and welfare. Key areas on the agenda include out-of-home care, youth justice, community-based prevention, digital safety, cultural diversity and public health approaches to child protection.

Speaking at the event, Ahmad said Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the federal government were taking concerted steps to strengthen measures aimed at protecting children’s rights in Pakistan.

She said the government considers effective legislation, stronger institutions and practical child protection measures among its key priorities.

Ahmad said Pakistan was working to improve its child protection framework by studying international experiences and adopting practices that could be adapted to the country’s needs.

She added that participation in the ISPCAN World Congress had given the Pakistani delegation an opportunity to engage with international experts, learn from successful child protection systems and identify practical approaches that could improve existing mechanisms in Pakistan.

During the congress, members of the Pakistani delegation held discussions with international experts and exchanged views on strategies for preventing child abuse and neglect, strengthening institutional responses and ensuring safer environments for children.

The delegation also examined various international models and practical solutions, with a particular focus on adapting relevant global experiences to Pakistan’s social and institutional context.

The participation reflects Pakistan’s efforts to enhance its child protection framework through international cooperation, knowledge-sharing and the adoption of evidence-based practices.