Lahore is expected to be recognised as the region’s first ever “Child-Friendly City,” with UNICEF (United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund) set to officially issue a certificate acknowledging the provincial capital’s child protection policy.
A representative from the Home Department stated on Tuesday that this development was discussed during a meeting involving Punjab Secretary Home, Dr. Ahmad Javed Qazi, and UNICEF Chief Field Officer Ramez Behbudov, along with other senior officials.
During the event, Dr. Ahmad Javed Qazi commented that Punjab was the first province in Pakistan to support a comprehensive child protection policy aimed at protecting the rights of children.
He also mentioned that the protection of women and children remains a top priority for the provincial government.
He stated that a zero-tolerance policy is being enforced against violence, abuse, and exploitation of children, while the Home Department is also conducting awareness campaigns such as “Good Touch, Bad Touch.”
A memorandum of understanding (MoU) to designate Lahore as the first “Child-Friendly City” in the region is set to be signed during the first week of May.
Punjab committed to building a safe society for children
The secretary noted that the Child Protection and Welfare Bureau (CPWB) is providing shelter, food, education, healthcare, as well as psychological and legal support to children in need.
He further indicated that 19 new child protection units are nearing completion, which will raise their total number to 36 across the province. He reiterated the Punjab government’s commitment to creating a safe and dignified society for children.
On the occasion, Ramez Behbudov praised the initiatives undertaken by the Punjab government, stating that the measures for the protection of women and children are exceptional.
He also highlighted the importance of the “Zewar-e-Taleem” program, which has contributed to an increase in school enrollment for girls and expressed his delight in visiting Lahore, noting that Lahore and his hometown Nakhchivan are sister cities.
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