Child marriages remain a pressing issue globally, affecting the lives of millions of young girls. According to UNICEF, one in every six young women is married during childhood. To combat this harmful practice, the National Commission on the Rights of Child (NCRC) has taken significant steps towards legal reforms in Pakistan.
The NCRC recognizes that early marriages hinder girls’ education, empowerment, and overall well-being. To address this, they have proposed legal reforms that set 18 years as the minimum age for marriage for both boys and girls. By raising the age limit, the NCRC aims to prevent child marriages and promote gender equality.
The NCRC has actively engaged with policymakers to advocate for these reforms. They have written letters to all Chief Ministers, urging them to support and pursue legal changes. Their goal is to create an environment where young girls can thrive, pursue education, and make informed choices about their lives.
In line with the NCRC’s efforts, Senator Sehar Kamran has taken a significant step by submitting the bill in the National Assembly of Pakistan. This move signifies a strong commitment to addressing the issue of early marriages and protecting the rights of children across the country. MPA Sarah Ahmad has submitted a similar bill in the Punjab Assembly, aiming to tackle the issue at the provincial level.
