Keywords: effects of early marriage, society, consequences, education, poverty, health, gender inequality
Early marriage is a societal issue that continues to plague numerous communities around the world. The consequences are far-reaching and impact various aspects of society, including education, poverty, health, and gender inequality. It is imperative that we address this issue collectively for the betterment of our society.
One of the most significant effects of early marriage is its negative impact on education. When young girls are forced into marriage at an early age, they are often required to drop out of school. This hampers their ability to gain an education and limits their future prospects. Consequently, this perpetuates the cycle of poverty within communities as these girls are unable to acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to pursue stable careers.
Furthermore, early marriage contributes to the perpetuation of poverty within society. Without an education, both girls and boys are unable to secure well-paying jobs, resulting in an increased likelihood of living in poverty. Additionally, early marriage often leads to larger families, as young couples have fewer resources and knowledge available to foster effective family planning. As a result, poverty levels increase within communities, exacerbating social and economic disparities.
Health is another crucial aspect affected by early marriage. Young girls who are forced into marriage are more susceptible to early pregnancies, which can have severe repercussions for both the mother and child. These girls are often unprepared physically and emotionally for childbirth, increasing the risk of complications and maternal mortality. Furthermore, early marriage frequently denies girls access to reproductive health education and services, further jeopardizing their well-being.
Gender inequality is exacerbated by early marriage within societies. By perpetuating the norm that girls should marry at a young age, we are reinforcing the idea that women should be subordinate to men. This perpetuates a cycle of inequality, limiting opportunities for women and reinforcing traditional gender roles. Early marriage often denies girls the chance to develop agency and make decisions regarding their own lives. Consequently, it perpetuates a society where women are marginalized and denied their basic rights and freedoms.
In conclusion, the effects of early marriage are vast and have far-reaching consequences throughout society. It stifles education, perpetuates poverty, impacts health, and exacerbates gender inequality. It is our collective responsibility to address this issue and work towards creating a society that values equality and provides opportunities for all. By doing so, we can empower individuals, especially young girls, and foster a society that thrives on fairness and inclusivity.
Nada Alahdal
A human rights activist to advocate for the issue of child marriage, and head of the
for the Protection of Girls
