The Dark Reality of Child Marriage in Saudi Arabia: Breaking the Silence

Child marriage continues to be a prevalent issue in Saudi Arabia, despite efforts to combat the practice. Young girls, some as young as 8 or 9 years old, are forced into marriages with much older men. This practice is often justified by cultural norms and religious beliefs that prioritize the role of women as wives and mothers.

One of the main consequences of child marriage is the impact it has on the health and well-being of young girls. Many child brides experience early pregnancies, which can result in serious health complications for both the mother and the child. Additionally, these young girls are often deprived of their right to an education and are forced to assume adult responsibilities at a very young age.

The government of Saudi Arabia has taken steps to address the issue of child marriage, including setting a minimum age requirement for marriage and implementing awareness campaigns to educate the public about the harmful effects of the practice. However, more needs to be done to protect young girls from being forced into marriages against their will.

It is crucial for communities and religious leaders to come together to challenge the cultural norms that perpetuate child marriage and to support initiatives that promote gender equality and the rights of women and girls. By working together, we can create a society where every child has the opportunity to grow and thrive in a safe and supportive environment.

Nada Alahdal

Human right activist
Nada Foundation