The Legal Framework for Child Protection in South Asia

Every child has the right to be protected from violence under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC). All countries in South Asia are state parties to the UNCRC, and are thereby obliged to undertake all appropriate legislative and administrative measures outlined in the Convention.

This report reviews the child protection legislation in the eight countries in South Asia, and their alignment with international laws and standards. While progress has been made, there are still significant gaps in the legal framework for child care and protection services, prohibition of all forms of violence against children and justice for children. The report further provides recommendations in areas where countries may need to consider strengthening of their efforts to protect children from harm.