Child marriage
Strategic Partner
UNICEF
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Analysis
Child marriage and early unions are a harmful practice that violates the human rights of children and adolescents, exposing them—especially girls—to health and life risks while limiting their overall development. These practices are associated with early motherhood, school dropout, lower participation in the labor market as adults, a higher risk of experiencing gender-based violence, and a lack of autonomy in making decisions about their bodies and lives.
This indicator is part of Target 5.3: "Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child, early and forced marriage and female genital mutilation" of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5: "Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls."