While the latest estimates from the UN Children’s Fund show a slight decline in child marriages worldwide, this positive trend may be short-lived. Global crises such as armed conflicts, economic crises or climate-related disasters are likely to exacerbate the situation again soon.
Every year, around 12 million child marriages take place worldwide. According to the UNICEF analysis published on Wednesday, the share of child marriages has fallen from 21 to 19 percent over the past five years.
“Health and economic crises, escalating armed conflicts and the devastating effects of climate change are forcing families to seek safety in child marriages,” said UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell. “We must do everything we can to ensure that their right to education and a self-determined life is guaranteed,” she added. Girls should go to school instead of being married.
One third of child marriages in India
According to the UNICEF report, a third and therefore the most child marriages worldwide take place in India. However, the country has made great progress in recent years, which is reflected in a positive trend. Globally, according to UNICEF, the share of child marriages has fallen by two percent in recent years.
Sub-Saharan Africa has the second highest rate of child marriage at 20 percent. The area is more than 200 years away from ending the practice, UNICEF said. In this region, the children’s charity even expects an increase in child brides due to ongoing crises and rising population numbers, “while a decrease is expected in the rest of the world”.
Marriages with lifelong consequences
According to UNICEF estimates, there are currently about 640 million girls and women worldwide who are married before the age of 18. According to the children’s charity, child marriage has lifelong consequences, ranging from an increased risk of early pregnancy and infant and maternal deaths to social isolation and mental health problems.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
