The legal minimum age for marriage in Pakistan is 18 years old for both girls and boys. However, the reality is more complex.
Cultural Practices and Early Marriages
While the law sets a minimum age, cultural practices and societal norms often lead to early marriages, especially for girls.
- Child Marriage: Child marriage, defined as marriage before the age of 18, is still prevalent in Pakistan, despite being illegal.
- Factors Contributing to Early Marriages: Several factors contribute to early marriages, including poverty, lack of education, and societal pressure.
- Consequences of Early Marriages: Early marriages often have negative consequences for girls, including limited educational opportunities, increased risk of domestic violence, and health complications during pregnancy and childbirth.
Efforts to Combat Early Marriages
The Pakistani government and various NGOs are working to combat early marriages.
- Awareness Campaigns: Public awareness campaigns are being conducted to educate people about the harmful effects of child marriage.
- Legal Reforms: The government is striving to strengthen laws against child marriage and improve enforcement mechanisms.
- Education and Empowerment Programs: Initiatives are being undertaken to empower girls through education and skill development programs.
Conclusion
While the legal minimum age for marriage in Pakistan is 18, cultural practices often lead to early marriages, particularly for girls. The government and NGOs are actively working to address this issue through awareness campaigns, legal reforms, and educational initiatives.
