PESHAWAR: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Child Protection and Welfare Commission, in collaboration with UNICEF, held a consultation workshop to review and reform the Child Protection Rules 2016, aiming to strengthen child protection systems across the province.
The workshop brought together representatives from key government departments including Social Welfare, Health, Education, Police, Labour, Prisons, Prosecution, and Local Government, along with technical experts and development partners. Participants discussed reforms to make child protection rules more practical, responsive, and child-centered.
Speaking on the occasion, Additional Secretary Social Welfare, Special Education and Women Empowerment Department, Umarah Khan said that while the Child Protection Rules 2016 had laid a strong foundation, evolving challenges now require updated measures aligned with current realities and best practices.
He reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to protecting children from abuse, neglect, exploitation, and violence, and ensuring a safe and supportive environment.
Participants emphasized that child protection is a shared responsibility and highlighted the need for stronger coordination among departments. They also stressed improving implementation mechanisms, referral pathways, inter-agency coordination, and institutional responses for children in need of care and protection.
Head of Child Protection at UNICEF Peshawar, Bushra Ajmal, reiterated UNICEF’s continued partnership with the provincial government, noting that effective child protection systems depend on practical implementation, strong coordination, and sustained commitment.
Chief of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Child Protection and Welfare Commission, Ijaz Muhammad Khan, said recommendations from the consultation would be compiled with UNICEF’s support and presented to the Technical Working Group, followed by the Executive Board and provincial cabinet for final approval.
He added that a provincial launch of the revised child protection rules is planned after formal approval.
The workshop concluded with a joint commitment from government departments and development partners to accelerate reforms and strengthen child protection systems across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
