Forcing a child into marriage has serious consequences, but unfortunately it is much too common in Pakistan. It robs children of their innocence, stripping them of their right to education, freedom and a healthy childhood. Early marriage often leads to severe health problems, mental stress and lifelong challenges, particularly for young girls.
Child marriage also hinders a country’s progress. When girls are forced into marriage instead of continuing their education, their potential to contribute to society and the economy is lost. According to UNICEF’s estimates, around 640 million women and girls alive today were married before the age of 18 — an alarming figure that highlights how widespread the problem remains.
It is therefore vital that laws against child marriage are fully enforced. Those who promote or facilitate such acts must be held accountable under the law. Ending child marriage is not only about protecting children — it is about securing the future of an entire society.
M Asif
Dasht, Balochistan
