Think of a young girl, her carefree laughter replaced by quiet sorrow by the weight of responsibilities she never chose. As droughts seize control of on her family’s meager existence, she becomes a victim of a panicked decision — married off to ease the financial tension. This is a shocking pattern that is becoming the lived experience of many young girls in Pakistan.
Climate change, like an unstoppable storm, is fracturing our social bonds, placing its harshest burdens on our daughters. Recent report from Sindh highlight the growing incidence of early marriage, where girl as young as 15 are wed to alleviate their families’ financial pressures. Early marriages, caused by climate-induced hardships, continue a vicious pattern of poverty, gender inequality, and underdevelopment. These young brides are commonly taken out of school, denied the opportunity to build a future, and subjected to early pregnancies, which carry serious health threats, including maternal mortality. The emotional and psychological effect on these girls is just as destructive, taking away from them their childhood and potential.
As one of the most climate-vulnerable countries, Pakistan’s social policies have largely deprioritised the gendered impacts of this crisis. Dealing with this necessitates a holistic approach. Climate adaptation programmes must include social safety nets like cash transfers, food assistance and skill building for women, offering families alternatives. Strengthening enforcement of laws such as the Sindh Child Marriage Restraint Act, 2013, is fundamental. Nonetheless, community engagement holds the utmost importance. Local leaders and organisations must challenge cultural norms and advocate for education as a long-term solution. Investing in rural education and health infrastructure is indispensable. Keeping girls in school is one of the most effective ways to prevent early marriages.
Climate-induced early marriages are a human rights issue. Policymakers, civil society and international partners urgent steps must be taken to protect our daughters from the overwhelming effects of climate change.
Muhammad Shahjahan Memon
Islamabad
