Your wedding day is a time of joy, romance and love. However, for so many girls around the world it is a terrifying experience.

Every year 12 million girls are married against their will before they turn 18 years old. That’s 23 girls every minute. Sadly, World Vision predicts this number will increase sharply in the next decade due to COVID-19.

Jenneh's pre-arranged marriage to an older man was stopped thanks to local World Vision staff

Why does child marriage occur?

Many factors can lead to child marriage, from financial or food insecurity to cultural or social norms. In many cases there are incentives for young girls to be married early, such as the chance to lessen the financial burden on parents, to offset debts, settle conflicts or for a lower dowry. When there is a war or crisis, parents see marriage as a way to protect girls from violence.

Although girls are affected in far greater numbers, early marriage is also a risk for boys in many countries.

Why is it harmful?

Whatever the cause, child marriage is a violation of a child’s human rights, and drastically compromises their opportunities in life. Early marriage means girls are taken out of school, deprived of an education and a career, and expected to take on the role of a grown woman. They’re taken away from their families, often suffer from mental health problems and are more likely to be victims of domestic violence, ill health or early death, particularly due to teenage pregnancy. Early marriage robs girls of their choices and chance of a safe and healthy childhood.

Rani* was arranged to be married at 15 years old until her parents learned about the dangers of child marriage.

Where does child marriage occur?

Despite being prohibited by international law, child marriage is a worldwide problem— from Africa to the Middle East, Asia to Europe, and the Americas. The highest rates of early marriage in the world are found in South Asia (particularly Nepal, India and Bangladesh) and sub-Saharan Africa (particularly Niger, Chad, Mali and the Central Africa Republic)

What is being done about child marriage?

A global effort has prevented about 25 million child marriages over the past 10 years. However, much more will have to be done to achieve the Sustainable Development Goal of eliminating child marriage by 2030.

Education is key. When girls have access to education, they develop the knowledge and confidence to make important life decisions for themselves. World Vision is working to empower boys and girls with educational opportunities and life skills programs. They also work with communities to educate on gender equality, maternal and newborn health, and they set up or strengthen existing child protection systems in communities that enable children to report protection issues, like child marriage.

How can I help?

You can help stop child marriage today by sponsoring a girl which will help her stay in school and reduce risk of child marriage.

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*Names changed for safeguarding purposes.