Makran on top for under-18 girls’ marriages

A report has found that Makran division of Balochistan had the highest prevalence of under-18 girls’ marriages -- 23%.

The survey found that the prevalence of under-18 girls’ marriages stood at 22.4% in Nasirabad and followed by 22% in Sibi division.

Quetta division has the least reported percentages of both under-15 and under-18 girls’ marriages at 2.6% and 11% respectively.

Around 21.6% of women of aged between 20 and 24 years are married off in Balochistan before reaching their 18th birthday. About 6% are married off before reaching 15.

The report highlights that the prevalence of child marriage is high for girls belonging to poorer families at 22.4%.

Both under-15 and under-18 child marriages decline if girls have attained the highest level of education, according to the survey.

The report explores the political, religious and socio-cultural factors behind the incidence of child marriage in Balochistan.

It also provides evidence for the adoption of necessary policy interventions including the enactment and implementation of the Child Marriage Restraint Act.

The report launch was organised in Quetta by the Population Council with support from the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and in collaboration with the Balochistan Social Welfare Department.

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The launch meeting was attended by Provincial Minister Zmarak Khan; senior government officials from the Balochistan social welfare, human rights, women development, law, health and population welfare departments; civil society representatives; academia; health practitioners; and the media.

Addressing the audience, Marzia Hasnain, the additional secretary of the social welfare department, said the report had placed forward key recommendations to prevent child marriages including increasing access to girls’ education, facilitating women’s employment and participation in socio-economic activities and raising awareness at all levels regarding women and children’s rights and the issue of reproductive health rights in particular.

She informed the participants that the Early Child Marriage Restraint Act drafted by the social welfare department had been submitted to the Balochistan cabinet.

Provincial Minister Zmarak Khan stressed the need for legislators, political parties, civil society and media to collectively work towards creating a more conducive environment for girls’ education and socio-economic inclusion. “This landmark report, analysing the political economy of child marriage, will not only contribute to comprehensive legislation to prevent the practice in the province but also act as a catalyst for further research, advocacy, and policy change on this critical issue,” he added.

“Development and prosperity of our people is paramount and tops the agenda of current provincial government and practice of child marriage needs to be reduced to achieve our goals. The report findings will help Balochistan government in making nuanced policies in targeted areas to not only improve health indicators but overall socio-economic situation”