Child marriage is a violation of children's human rights that continues to deny millions of girls their childhood. It is often caused by poverty, where families marry off young daughters to escape financial hardship or settle debts. Weak laws against child marriage and lack of enforcement allow the practice to continue in some countries. Child marriage deprives girls of their right to education, health, and protection from exploitation. Early pregnancy is a dangerous consequence, and child brides face increased risk of violence and abuse. Efforts to stop child marriage include raising awareness, supporting girls' education, and strengthening laws that set the legal marriage age at 18 or older.

3. WHAT IS CHILD MARRIAGE ?
Early marriage is a violation of children’s human
rights. Despite being prohibited by international
law, it continues to rob millions of girls under 18
around the world of their childhood.

4. CAUSES OF CHILD MARRIAGE
 Poverty: Poor families sell their children into
marriage either to settle debts or to make some
money and escape the cycle of poverty.
 Inadequate laws: Many countries such as
Pakistan have laws against child marriage. The
laws are not enforced. In Afghanistan, a new
law was written into the country's code enabling
Shiite, communities to impose their own form of
family law--including permitting child marriage.

5. RIGHTS DENIED BY CHILD
MARRIAGE
 The right to education
 The right to the enjoyment of the highest
attainable standard of health.
 The right to not be separated from parents
against the child's will.
 The right to protection against all forms of
exploitation affecting any aspect of the child’s
welfare.

6. CONSEQUENCES OF CHILD
MARRIAGE.
Early pregnancy is one of the most dangerous
causes and consequences of this harmful
practice. Girls married early are more likely to
experience violence, abuse and forced sexual
relations.

7. WAYS TO STOP CHILD
MARRIAGE
 Increase community awareness of child rights
 Support girls to receive education and become
independent.
 Educate families about sexual and reproductive
health.
 Demand government to set the legal age of
marriage after 18 and enforce laws to protect
children.