Bridging the Gap: International Standards and Domestic Realities in Pakistan's Child Protection Laws

Abstract

This research article explores the challenges Pakistan faces in aligning its child protection framework with international standards, despite being a signatory to the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) and relevant ILO Conventions. It examines key obstacles that hinder the harmonization of national laws with international norms, focusing on issues such as child labor, limited access to education, and weak legislative enforcement. Through an analysis of international conventions and Pakistan’s domestic legal framework, the study identifies critical gaps in implementation. It evaluates the roles of government agencies, law enforcement, and the judiciary, while also considering the broader political and social factors affecting child protection. The findings reveal that institutional weaknesses, legal shortcomings, and economic constraints contribute to Pakistan’s inability to fully meet its international obligations. The study concludes that comprehensive legal reform, institutional strengthening, and effective enforcement are essential for advancing child protection. Bridging the gap between international standards and national practice is crucial to securing children's rights in Pakistan.