Pakistan explored global child protection models and best practices at the ISPCAN 2026 World Congress in Melbourne, where its delegation examined approaches to strengthening the country’s child protection system.
The congress, being held from August 24 to 26 under the theme “Transforming approaches to safety and healing”, brings together researchers, practitioners, advocates, policymakers and young people to explore new approaches to child protection.
Its agenda covers out-of-home care, youth justice, community prevention, digital safety, culture and diversity, and public health approaches, with participants sharing research, best practices and practical solutions.
The Pakistani delegation comprised Child Protection and Welfare Bureau Chairperson Sarah Ahmad, Human Rights Secretary Abdul Khaliq Sheikh and Human Rights Director Dr Arif, an official statement read.
The International Society for the Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect (ISPCAN) congress provided a global platform for participants to exchange knowledge, share best practices and discuss practical solutions for child protection.
Speaking on the occasion, Ahmad said the prime minister and the government were making concerted efforts to ensure effective measures for protecting children’s rights in Pakistan.
She said effective legislation, a strong institutional framework and practical measures were among the government’s key priorities for child protection.
Ahmad said Pakistan was improving its child protection system by learning from international experiences and adopting best practices.
She said the delegation’s participation in the congress provided an opportunity to benefit from global expertise and identify approaches that could help make the country’s child protection mechanisms more effective.
During the congress, the Pakistani delegation held meetings with international experts and exchanged views on effective child protection systems and best practices.
The delegation also reviewed global models and practical approaches, with a focus on applying relevant international experience to further strengthen child protection mechanisms in the country.
