International day of the girl child: Civil society wants end to child marriage

ISLAMABAD: As the world celebrates the first International Day of the Girl Child, civil society called for a firm legislation and stern action to end girl child marriage in Pakistan. On December 19, 2011, the United Nations General Assembly adopted Resolution 66/170 to declare October 11 as the International Day of the Girl Child to promote the rights of girls and to address the unique challenges they face. For its first observance, this year’s day will focus on child marriage, which is a fundamental human rights violation and impacts all aspects of a girl’s life. The civil society of Pakistan has planned a number of events to observe the day, including a demonstration rally in Islamabad, doll protest and a press conference at the National Press Club.

Published in The Express Tribune, October 11^th, 2012.