Child marriage

Child marriage is a marriage or similar union, formal or informal, entered into by an individual before reaching a certain age, specified by some global organizations like UNICEF as being under the age of 18. The practice is considered a violation of human rights by many international conventions and has been a subject of intense international and national debate.

Causes

Child marriage is caused by a variety of factors, including economic, social, cultural, and religious reasons. In many cases, it is seen as a strategy for economic survival, as it is often associated with the transfer of a dowry or bride price to the child's family. Social norms and cultural traditions in some communities also play a significant role in perpetuating child marriage. Additionally, in some cultures, child marriage is practiced to ensure virginity before marriage or to avoid unwanted pregnancies outside of marriage.

Consequences

The consequences of child marriage are far-reaching, affecting not only the individuals involved but also their families and communities. Girls who marry young often leave school early, limiting their education and employment opportunities. This can perpetuate cycles of poverty and inequality. Child marriage also has significant health implications, as young brides are more likely to experience complications during pregnancy and childbirth, which can lead to higher rates of maternal and infant mortality. Furthermore, child marriage often results in early and frequent pregnancies, posing additional health risks to the mother and child. The practice also raises serious concerns about children's rights, as it deprives them of the opportunity to make informed decisions about their lives and futures.

Legal and International Framework

Many countries have laws that set the minimum age for marriage, often at 18, but enforcement of these laws can be lax, especially in rural areas. International efforts to end child marriage include the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) and the Convention on the Rights of the Child, which advocate for the abolition of child marriage and call for the adoption of effective legislation to protect children from this practice. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically Goal 5.3, also aim to eliminate all harmful practices, such as child, early, and forced marriages by 2030.

Prevention and Intervention

Efforts to prevent and intervene in child marriages include educational programs that promote gender equality and the importance of education for girls, economic support for families, and legal reforms to enforce existing laws regarding the minimum age for marriage. Community-based approaches that involve local leaders and stakeholders are also crucial in changing social norms and attitudes towards child marriage.

See also

• Forced marriage
• Arranged marriage
• Women's rights
• Child rights

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