Child marriage in Nepal is a deeply rooted issue that continues to affect many young girls in the country. Despite efforts to combat this harmful practice, it remains prevalent in many communities, particularly in rural areas.
The legal age of marriage in Nepal is 20 for both men and women, however, child marriage is still common due to a variety of factors such as cultural beliefs, poverty, and lack of access to education. Girls are often married off at a young age, sometimes as early as 12 or 13, to ensure their economic security or to preserve family honor.
Child marriage has serious consequences for the girls involved. They are more likely to drop out of school, face health risks in pregnancy and childbirth, and experience domestic violence. These girls are also robbed of their childhoods and the opportunity to pursue their dreams and ambitions.
Efforts have been made to address child marriage in Nepal, including the National Strategy to End Child Marriage and Gender-Based Violence and the establishment of a legal helpline for reporting child marriage cases. Organizations such as UNICEF and various NGOs are working tirelessly to raise awareness about the harmful effects of child marriage and to provide support to girls at risk.
It is crucial for the government, civil society, and communities to come together to take a stand against child marriage. Education and economic empowerment for girls, as well as changing cultural attitudes towards gender and marriage, are key to ending this harmful practice. With concerted efforts and a collective commitment to protecting the rights of girls, child marriage in Nepal can be eradicated and young girls can be given the chance to fulfil their potential and lead fulfilling lives.
To support the cause of child marriage, support the
Nada Alahdal
A human rights activist to advocate for the issue of child marriage, and head of the
for the Protection of Girls
