Young girls, some as young as 10 years old, are often forced into marriage by their families for various reasons, including economic hardship, social pressures, and cultural beliefs. This not only denies these girls of their childhood but also exposes them to serious health risks and emotional trauma.
One of the main challenges in addressing child marriage in Egypt is the lack of enforcement of laws that set the legal age for marriage at 18. Many families choose to ignore these laws, citing religious or cultural justifications for marrying off their young daughters.
Furthermore, the lack of access to education and economic opportunities for girls in Egypt contributes to the perpetuation of child marriage. Many families see marriage as a way to secure a better future for their daughters, without considering the negative consequences it may have on their well-being.
In addition to the physical and emotional toll that child marriage takes on young girls, it also perpetuates a cycle of poverty and gender inequality. Girls who are married off at a young age are more likely to drop out of school, have limited job opportunities, and experience higher rates of domestic violence.
Efforts to combat child marriage in Egypt must address the root causes of this practice, including poverty, lack of education, and harmful cultural beliefs. It is essential to empower girls with knowledge and resources that enable them to make informed decisions about their own lives and futures.
By raising awareness about the impact of child marriage and advocating for stronger enforcement of laws protecting young girls, we can work towards ending this harmful practice in Egypt and ensuring a brighter future for all girls. Together, we can create a society where every child has the opportunity to thrive and fulfill their potential.
Human right activist
Nada Foundation
