It is estimated that approximately 250 million women alive today were married before the age of 15. In the UK, child marriage is seen as a form of child abuse, as it deprives young individuals of their right to choose who they want to marry and when. It also puts them at risk of physical and emotional harm, as they are often forced into relationships with much older partners.
Many young girls who are forced into child marriage suffer from a range of negative consequences, including limited education opportunities, increased risk of domestic violence, and detrimental effects on their physical and mental health. In addition to these individual consequences, child marriage also has broader societal impacts, such as perpetuating gender inequality and hindering efforts to achieve social and economic development.
Efforts to combat child marriage in the UK have been ongoing, with organizations such as the Forced Marriage Unit working to support victims and raise awareness about the issue. However, more needs to be done to effectively address this harmful practice and protect vulnerable young individuals.
By raising awareness about the prevalence and impact of child marriage, we can work towards creating a society where every individual has the right to choose who they marry and when. It is essential that we continue to advocate for the rights of young individuals and challenge the norms and traditions that perpetuate this harmful practice. Together, we can create a future where child marriage is no longer a reality for young individuals in the UK.
Human right activist
Nada Foundation
