When looking at Iran's societal customs and traditions, there is an unfortunate reality that cannot be ignored – the prevalence of child marriages. In this article, we delve into the distressing numbers surrounding this issue, demonstrating the urgent need for intervention and change.Child marriage remains a deeply-rooted problem in Iran, despite efforts to combat it. The latest available data highlights that approximately 17% of girls in Iran are married before they reach the age of 18. This number is alarming and demonstrates a significant violation of children's rights.
Furthermore, statistics reveal that 2% of girls in Iran are married before they even turn 15, perpetuating the cycle of early marriage and its associated hardships. These young girls are forced into adulthood at a tender age, deprived of education, and often confined to strict gender roles, inhibiting their potential and limiting their prospects for the future.
One of the key contributing factors to child marriages in Iran is the existence of legal loopholes within the country's laws. Although the legal age of marriage in Iran is set at 13 for girls and 15 for boys, these laws can be easily bypassed through parental consent or judicial authorization. This facilitates a practice that perpetuates the violation of children's rights and ignores the inherent dangers and consequences.
The repercussions of child marriages on the lives of these young individuals are numerous and severe. Disrupted education is a common consequence, as young girls are typically forced to drop out of school upon marriage. This not only robs them of their right to education but further perpetuates the cycle of poverty and gender inequality.
Child brides often face significant health risks, both during pregnancy and childbirth. Their bodies are not fully developed, making them more prone to complications, such as premature birth, low birth weight, and even maternal mortality. These girls are subjected to physical and emotional abuse, with limited support systems to protect and assist them in times of need.
Addressing child marriages in Iran necessitates a multi-faceted approach. Firstly, there must be efforts to raise awareness and challenge the societal norms and expectations that perpetuate this harmful practice. Engaging with communities and religious leaders is crucial to enacting change from within.
Additionally, legal reforms must be enacted to eliminate the existing loopholes that enable child marriages to thrive. Stricter penalties and consequences for those involved in facilitating or conducting child marriages would serve as deterrents, creating an environment where this harmful practice is not tolerated.
Finally, providing comprehensive support systems for child brides is imperative. This includes safe spaces, counseling services, and educational opportunities that enable these girls to break free from the cycle of early marriage and work towards a brighter future.
As concerned individuals, it is our duty to shed light on the issue of child marriages in Iran. By remaining steadfast in our commitment to eradicating this harmful practice, we can work towards creating a society where every child can fulfill their potential, unhindered by the chains of early marriage. Together, we can empower these young individuals and ensure a better future for generations to come. Nada Alahdal A human rights activist to advocate for the issue of child marriage, and head of the for the Protection of Girls https://nadaalahdal.com/2023/08/20/alarming-rise-in-child-marriages-in-iran-a-disturbing-trend-revealed.html?feed_id=5364&_unique_id=64e257c0c60e9&15641
Alarming Rise in Child Marriages in Iran: A Disturbing Trend Revealed
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Nada Alahdal
