Chairperson of the Child Protection Bureau and Member of the Punjab Assembly, Sarah Ahmed, called for unified international action to end child exploitation during her participation in the Global Conference to End Child Exploitation in Colombia.
The conference, an inaugural event organised by the Colombian and Swedish governments in partnership with UNICEF and the World Health Organisation, brought together ministers and child protection experts from 143 countries to address pressing issues in child protection.
Representing Pakistan, Ahmed highlighted the country’s achievements and ongoing efforts in child protection, urging stakeholders worldwide to join forces to eradicate child exploitation. She highlighted the necessity of combating challenges like child marriage, physical punishment, and exploitation through coordinated global efforts.
Speaking on the significance of the event, Ahmed stated, “This conference has been a tremendous honor for me, representing Pakistan and contributing to the global dialogue on ending child exploitation.” She stressed that collaboration between Pakistan and international stakeholders is essential to protect vulnerable children globally.
Colombian President Gustavo Petro opened the event, which focused on advancing child protection laws, strengthening child protection systems, and ensuring safe environments for children worldwide.
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Ahmed showcased the Child Protection Bureau’s efforts, noting that the bureau rescued around 10,000 exploited children over the past year, offering them welfare support and pathways to independence.
Expressing appreciation for UNICEF’s role in facilitating Pakistan’s participation, Ahmed highlighted Pakistan’s ongoing measures to protect children’s rights. However, she acknowledged that child exploitation remains a global challenge requiring comprehensive international action.
“Our mission is to guarantee that every child in Pakistan lives a safe, empowered, and free life,” she added, underscoring the importance of enforcing child protection laws and fostering secure environments for future generations.
