If child marriage were to be described as a mythical creature, it could be depicted as a giant, invisible parasite that leeches onto the skin of its victims, leaving them crippled and devoid of life. Pakistan has nearly 19 million child brides, and it is estimated that around 4.6 million of them were married before the age of 15, and 18.9 million before they turned 18. These daunting figures bring us to a wider web of questions: How does this reflect the society we live in? How does it impact the children born into these circumstances, as they become part of the same cycle? And to what extent will these figures continue to be treated as mere numbers with nothing substantial being done to combat them?
With gender inequalities forming the parameters of our society, young girls are mostly subjected to exploitation. Their naivety provides the perfect canvas for traditionalists to paint the idea of a “perfect future.” These girls are often deprived of education, resulting in a restricted worldview—something that easily becomes part of their belief system, as they have been exposed to a singular reality. Mental manipulation, coupled with force, is a constant practice when addressing child marriages. Traditions and customs are sometimes valued more than consent, which raises the critical question of free will: Who is truly allowed to exercise it? If a right cannot be exercised by all demographics within a country, should it really be considered valid at large? The concept of protecting female honor and chastity has also been ingrained in our society, where husbands are seen as protectors. However, what is often ignored in this process is that child marriage increases the risk of sexual violence, thus NOT protecting the vulnerable.
It can be said with utmost certainty that children growing up in the disruptive environments created by child marriages will carry generational trauma with them—something scientifically proven. As identified by Psychology Today, “Generational trauma is passed down through families, often resulting from the unresolved suffering and experiences of past generations. This cycle of pain and disadvantage continues unless actively addressed and healed.” The next generation will be more prone to abuse, whether physical, mental, emotional, or financial. Breaking free from this cycle would be extremely difficult, making it harder for them to take steps toward individual independence—a crucial factor in uncovering one’s identity and establishing oneself in this world. If a child attempts to break this unfortunate loop, they would be labeled as defiant, and force would be used to make them surrender, repeating the horrific cycle once again. If the cycle never ends, it becomes normalized.
The importance of definitive action regarding this issue cannot be overstated. Enforcing stricter punishments, such as heavy fines and imprisonment, can help systematically break down the practice. Awareness drives and counseling, aimed at helping the public understand the impact and implications of child marriage, can be achieved through collaboration with NGOs. Additionally, the implementation of Articles 34 and 37 of the constitution, which categorize the practice as a social evil, the establishment of an emergency helpline to provide assistance to those in need, and unifying the legal age of marriage across all provinces to 18 years are essential steps. In Pakistan, the minimum legal age for female marriage should be 18, but in Punjab and some other provinces, it is still 16. These steps will prove crucial in protecting young children and, ultimately, safeguarding the future of our country.
To conclude, in order to protect the vulnerable from this deceitful and harmful practice, we must ensure that we work collectively, representing those who have been left voiceless. United, our voices will echo the loudest.
Abdul Ahad Bhatti
The author is a journalist with a keen focus on contemporary issues, a successful businessman, and a motivational speaker. Passionate about addressing social challenges and economic disparities, his writing delves into these critical topics.
Contact via Instagram: @abdulahadbhatti