Human Trafficking in Pakistan: Legal Challenges and the Way Forward

Human trafficking remains a significant human rights violation in Pakistan, affecting vulnerable groups such as women, children, and migrant workers. The country faces numerous challenges in effectively addressing this issue, despite having enacted several anti-trafficking laws. This article critically analyzes the existing legal framework and highlights the overlapping and conflicting provisions among various laws related to human trafficking. It identifies key legal gaps and jurisdictional conflicts that hinder the effective prosecution of trafficking offenses. This study adopts a qualitative doctrinal research methodology by examining domestic laws, international conventions, and judicial decisions. It recommends comprehensive legislative reforms, including amendments to the Prevention of Trafficking in Persons Act, to harmonize conflicting laws, strengthen victim protection frameworks, and enhance the capacity of law enforcement agencies. This study underscores the urgent need for Pakistan to align its anti-trafficking laws with international human rights standards.