Coordinated Action Needed to Protect Girl Children

Dear Sir,

Girl children face insecurity both outside and within their homes. Across the country, many girls are subjected to violence, with some even losing their lives. They are not always safe at schools, maktabs, madrasas, on roads or at home. Rape and sexual harassment can cause serious mental and social problems, while families may also face stigma and harassment. Such incidents threaten girls’ safety, education and healthy development.

Collective action is urgently needed. Parents should teach children about good touch, bad touch, personal safety and safe and unsafe behaviour. Schools should strengthen child protection programmes and provide safe reporting systems. Offenders must be brought to justice promptly, while victims should receive protection and support.
    
I urge the authorities to take strict action through coordinated efforts among families, educational institutions, society and law enforcement agencies.