1.5 Million Pakistani Children Victimized by Online Sexual Exploitation

• •1.5 million Pakistani children faced online sexual exploitation in one year.
• •85% of perpetrators were known to the victims, leading to silence due to stigma.
• •Proposed social media bans for children face opposition and highlight implementation challenges.

A UNICEF report reveals that approximately 1.5 million children in Pakistan experienced online sexual exploitation in one year. The case of 17-year-old Zara Shah highlights the dangers, as she was targeted by a stranger during an online game. The report indicates that 85% of perpetrators were known to the victims, with many children remaining silent due to stigma and fear of family repercussions. Around 44% of the abuse occurred entirely online, primarily on platforms like Snapchat and WhatsApp. The provincial government in Punjab has proposed a ban on social media use for children under 16, but this has faced opposition from digital rights activists. Despite existing laws addressing tech-facilitated offenses against children, implementation remains a significant issue. The growing internet usage among children raises concerns about their safety in the digital space.