CHILD TRAFFICKING: THE EXPLOITATIVE ASPECT OF PAKHTUN CULTURE

Syed Rashid Ali; Abd Ullah; Wajahat Karim

Syed Rashid Ali Department of Social Work & Sociology, University of Science & Technology, Kohat, Pakistan
Abd Ullah Department of Social Work & Sociology, University of Science & Technology, Kohat, Pakistan
Wajahat Karim Journalism and Mass Communication Department, Kohat University of Science and Technology, Kohat, Pakistan

Keywords: Child Trafficking, Pakhtun Culture, Exploitative aspect, Peshawar, Swara, Honor Killing

Abstract

Children are the asset and future of any nation. However, they are the most vulnerable segment of a society as well. They are prone to various natural and social threats. Among these are, exploitative cultural practices and attitudes that are associated with child trafficking. This study aims to investigate correlation between child trafficking and certain practices of Pakhtun culture. We use chi-square and gamma statistics for analysis in this study. The analyses are based on a survey carried out in Peshawar, the provincial capital of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The survey comprises a sample of 392 respondents which is selected through a stratified random sampling technique. The sample includes crime practitioners, crime reporters, and social scientists. The study shows that forced child marriage, swara marriage, bride price, honor killing, gender inequality, social stigma; the exploitative practices of Pakhtun culture, are associated with child trafficking. Based on our investigation, it is suggested that a local level watch dog may be constituted that can initiate a dialogue. The forum among various stakeholders discuss, review the current real practices and find way outs to curb the practices.