KARACHI:
In contrast to other countries, where girls are encouraged to pursue education and independence before marriage, Pakistan’s societal norms and values often prioritise early marriage over a girl’s personal aspirations. This is largely due to a patriarchal system that views girls as commodities to be married off for family honour, financial security or social status.
The consequences of early marriage are far-reaching and devastating. Girls who are married off early are often denied access to education, leaving them vulnerable to poverty, abuse and exploitation. They are also more likely to experience health problems, including complications during pregnancy and childbirth.
Furthermore, early marriage perpetuates a cycle of poverty, as girls who are married off early are often forced to drop out of school, limiting their future economic prospects. This, in turn, exacerbates the poverty trap, making it even more challenging for families to escape the cycle of deprivation.
It is imperative for the relevant authorities to: strengthen laws to prohibit early marriage and ensure that perpetrators are held accountable; launch public awareness campaigns to educate communities about the dangers of early marriage and the importance of girls’ education; and provide economic opportunities and support to families to reduce their reliance on early marriage as a means of economic survival.
By working together, we can create a safer, more equitable society for girls in Pakistan, where they can pursue their dreams, education and independence without being forced into early marriage.
Mahnoor Fida Ahmed
Kalatuk
