Duration: September to October, 2011
Locale: Punjab: Jhang, Mianwali and D.G.Khan; Sindh: Jaccobabad and Sukkar; Balochistan: Sibbi; Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Batagram
Introduction:
The M&E Unit is conducting research activities that include qualitative methods like Focus Group Discussion, In-depth interview, case studies and quantitative data collection from selected districts of Pakistan i.e. Jhang, Mianwali and D.G.Khan from Punjab, Jaccobabad and Tharparkar from Sindh, Sibbi from Balochistan and Batagram from KPK. The overall aim is to produce a comprehensive picture of social exclusion and its impacts on child deprivation, taking into account the disaster impacts of the recent floods. The underlying concern is that broad exclusion factors keep communities and families excluded from accessing income opportunities, social services and participating in political and social institutions. This, in tandem with the particular vulnerabilities that children face with respect to natural hazards and disaster risk, creates a complex picture of childhood capability deprivation in Pakistan. To date no studies on social exclusion in Pakistan have focused on life-cycle based exclusion within which children are a key group. The survey comprised of 2,500 households, about 350 FGDs as well as key informant interviews. This is important, as social exclusion theory and practice can explain, rather than merely describe, poverty and social deprivations. The study provides a more holistic understanding of the dynamics and drivers of child deprivation across multiple dimensions to enhance UNICEF’s advisory capacity and social service delivery and social protection. The study investigates as far as possible the situation of child social exclusion and the factors that contribute to its extent and severity.
Objective:
The overall objectives of the research were to enhance the understanding of exclusion & its relationship with child deprivation, vulnerability and risk for women and children.