Sahil’s annual report ‘Cruel Numbers 2023’ provides detailed analysis of child abuse cases reported in Pakistani media throughout the year. The report aims to document the scale of child sexual abuse (CSA) and other forms of violence against children to raise awareness and inform legal reform efforts.
Key findings of the 2023 report include:
- A total of 4213 cases of child abuse were reported, comprising 2021 CSA cases, 1833 abduction cases, 330 missing children cases, and 29 child marriage cases.
- The majority of CSA victims (48%) were in the vulnerable 6-15 years age group. Children as young as 0-5 were also sexually abused.
- Out of the 2021 CSA cases, 1064 boys and 957 girls were victims, showing both genders face risks.
- Acquaintances remain the most reported abusers, comprising 1787 cases. However, relatives, neighbors and religious teachers were also perpetrators.
- Closed spaces like homes and educational institutions accounted for the highest share (71%) of abuse locations. Streets were the main open space for exploitation.
- Punjab reported the bulk (75%) of total cases. Faisalabad, Lahore and Sargodha districts were among the most vulnerable.
- A majority (91%) of cases were successfully registered with police, showing an active law enforcement response.
Read Cruel Numbers 2023
