Instability in Marriages
Numerous studies indicate a rising rate of divorce and separation in cases of early marriage. For instance, a quantitative survey conducted in a region of Ethiopia revealed that approximately 27% of marriages in urban areas and 19% in rural areas ended in divorce or separation. Among those who have remarried, 56% reported that they ended their first marriage primarily due to their young age or lack of interest in marital responsibilities.
Impact on Girls’ Health
Early marriage deprives women of their right to make informed decisions regarding safe sexual practices and family planning. This lack of autonomy exposes them to the risk of numerous sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV/AIDS. Additionally, early marriage often results in pregnancies that occur before the female is physically prepared for childbirth, subsequently increasing the risks of miscarriage and higher infant mortality rates. Mothers may also suffer from severe complications, such as obstetric fistulas, due to their biological immaturity. Furthermore, these women often face barriers in accessing reproductive health centers and obtaining essential health and sexual education information.
Exposure to Violence
Girls who marry young frequently find themselves partnered with older men, resulting in an imbalance of power in the relationship. This dynamic increases the prevalence of domestic violence among young brides compared to their older counterparts, who generally enter marriage with more informed consent and preparedness.
Deprivation of Individual Rights
Early marriage infringes upon various individual rights, including:
- The right to education.
- The right to protection from physical and emotional violence, including abuse and sexual exploitation.
- The right to participate in cultural life, alongside the right to peace and security.
- The right to maintain a connection with one’s parents and avoid separation from them.
- The right to protection from any actions that could adversely affect the child’s well-being.
- The right to employment.
A Major Barrier to Gender Equality
Girls who marry as children are notably more vulnerable to domestic violence and often hold a lower status within society. Frequently, child brides are denied the opportunity to pursue education, work, or entrepreneurial endeavors. With each child bride, society loses a potential teacher, doctor, scientist, entrepreneur, or political leader.
Increased Infant Mortality Rates
Early marriage has detrimental effects on communities as it bears significant consequences for both mothers and newborns. Infants born to mothers under the age of 20 face a 50% higher risk of stillbirths and neonatal mortality. Additionally, in low- and middle-income countries, children born to these young mothers are at a greater risk of low birth weight, premature births, and difficult deliveries, all of which may lead to lifelong disabilities in the children.