It is estimated that 15 million girls (under the age of 18) are married each year globally. Child marriage is a form of gender-based violence, with its roots in gender inequality and the oppression of women and girls in society. It is fuelled by social and economic factors, including poverty, discriminatory norms and customs, and a lack of educational and economic opportunities. While the practice can affect both girls and boys, girls are by far more disproportionately affected.
In our learning memo on child and early forced marriage, read about the successful strategies grantees are using to engage parliamentarians and local CSOs to protect and promote the rights of young people.
