The Baseline Study on the Knowledge, Attitudes, Beliefs, Social Norms & Practices Related to Child Protection in Pakistan.pdf provides insights into the current state of child protection in Pakistan. The study focuses on the prevention and response to exploitation, abuse, neglect, and harmful practices against children. Some of the key points of the study are:
- The study establishes a baseline on knowledge, attitudes and practices related to birth registration, violent discipline, child labour, and child marriage in Pakistan.
- It collects insights from both adults and children to understand behavioral determinants from different perspectives.
- The research was conducted across Pakistan’s four provinces (Punjab, Sindh, KP, Balochistan), as well as Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Jammu & Kashmir and Islamabad Capital Territory.
- On birth registration, findings show variability in awareness and knowledge based on factors like education level, gender and province. Barriers include complications, costs and social norms.
- In terms of violent discipline, many adults and children reported experiencing it at home and school. Attitudes reflected acceptance but lack of understanding of harms. Laws are inconsistent.
- On child labour, financial instability drives child employment but it has negative impacts on education and well-being. It is often seen as a private family matter.
- For child marriage, social and religious norms are strong influences despite recognized harms. Children have little agency in the decision.
- Across topics, gender norms, education levels, province and economic factors shape determinants and incidence of the issues.
- The study establishes a baseline to measure impacts of forthcoming UNICEF social and behavioral change interventions in Pakistan.
