SPARC Urges Action to Protect Street Children

International Street Children Day serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by the estimated 1.5 million street children in Pakistan. These vulnerable children endure hardships such as extreme poverty, lack of access to education and healthcare, exploitation, and abuse on a daily basis. The Society for the Protection of the Rights of the Child (SPARC) has highlighted the urgent need for collective action to safeguard the rights and well-being of these marginalized youth.

Asiya Arif Khan, Executive Director of SPARC, emphasized the importance of prioritizing the protection and support of street children to prevent potential delinquency among juveniles and youth. She called for government-led initiatives, including conducting a comprehensive survey to gather updated data on street children and developing strategies for their reintegration into mainstream society.

SPARC, in addition to advocacy efforts, provides essential services such as non-formal education and distribution of basic necessities to support street children. Dr. Khalil Ahmad Dogar, Program Manager at SPARC, stressed the need for the government to implement safeguarding mechanisms, child protection services, and tailored rehabilitation programs to address the systemic barriers faced by street-connected children.

Collaboration with the private sector and civil society is deemed crucial to enhance government efforts and provide holistic support to these vulnerable children. By taking concrete steps to protect and empower street children, Pakistan can work towards ensuring a brighter future for its most marginalized youth.