Understanding the Phenomena of Child Trafficking in Pakistan

Child trafficking is one of the most prevalent forms of trafficking in Pakistan and the region. Poverty, illiteracy, conflict and local customs are some of the factors that contribute to the trafficking of children in Pakistan. On the demand side of child trafficking, inhuman sports, exploitative entertainment and domestic labor play a strong role in creating a lucrative market for the trade in children that is motivated by low cost of children and low risk in comparison to trafficking adults. Trafficking of children for sexual purpose is a growing problem in South Asian countries including Pakistan. Now, the menace is growing in Pakistan and Pakistani female children are being trafficked to Middle East. Furthermore, who are trafficked to United Arab Emirates, Kuwait and Qatar as camel jockeys. The Constitution of Pakistan forbids slavery and prohibits all forms of forced labor and trafficking in human beings (Article 11 1–2). Pakistan prohibits all forms of transnational trafficking in persons, and appears to cover some non-trafficking offenses as well, through PACHTO; the penalties range from seven to 14 years’ imprisonment.