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Child marriages in Pakistan remain widespread, driven by poverty, tradition, and weak law enforcement.
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Girls married young face serious physical, emotional, and educational consequences, losing out on their rights and potential.
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Ending child marriage requires stronger laws, community awareness, and educational opportunities for every girl.
Child marriages in Pakistan are a harsh and heartbreaking reality. While the world moves toward progress and empowerment, countless young girls across Pakistan are being forced into early marriages—often before they even understand what marriage truly means. These unions not only rob children of their innocence but also deprive them of education, health, and a future of their own choosing. The issue persists in both rural and urban areas, driven by poverty, tradition, and lack of enforcement of protective laws.
The Roots of the Problem
In many parts of Pakistan, child marriage is seen as a cultural norm rather than a human rights violation. Families, often struggling financially, marry off their daughters young to reduce household expenses or settle disputes. The idea of “honor” also plays a key role, with parents believing that marrying girls early will protect their family’s reputation.
Despite the legal age of marriage being 18 for boys and 16 for girls (18 in Sindh), loopholes and weak enforcement allow underage marriages to take place quietly. In some regions, girls as young as 10 are wed off, often to much older men.
The Impact on Young Lives
Child brides face devastating consequences. Physically, their bodies are not ready for pregnancy, leading to increased risks of maternal and infant mortality. Psychologically, they are often isolated, pulled out of school, and subjected to domestic abuse. Education takes a backseat. A girl married at 13 is unlikely to return to school, cutting off her chances of economic independence. Her dreams are replaced with household duties, and her voice is silenced under the weight of tradition.
Voices of Hope and Change
Amid the grim reality, there are glimmers of hope. NGOs, activists, and grassroots organizations across Pakistan are working to raise awareness, push for stronger legislation, and empower girls through education. Campaigns such as “Girls Not Brides” and “Empower Her” aim to educate communities about the dangers of child marriage and the importance of letting girls grow up with dignity and choice.
What Needs to Be Done
To end child marriage in Pakistan, a multifaceted approach is essential:
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Stronger enforcement of laws that prohibit child marriage nationwide.
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Widespread awareness campaigns in local languages targeting parents and community leaders.
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Access to education and healthcare for all girls, especially in rural areas.
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Empowerment initiatives that build confidence and skills in young girls.
Conclusion
Child marriages in Pakistan are not just a statistic—they are shattered dreams, lost childhoods, and stolen futures. Ending this crisis requires not just laws on paper, but hearts that care, communities that speak up, and leaders that act. Every girl deserves the right to choose her own path—not be forced into adulthood before she’s ready.
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