In a powerful call to action, UNICEF has partnered with National Ambassador Saba Qamar to launch a video campaign aimed at ending child marriage in Pakistan. This harmful practice robs millions of young girls—and sometimes boys—of their childhood, health, and dreams. Through this campaign, UNICEF is rallying communities, policymakers, and individuals to speak up and protect the rights of every child.
Why Child Marriage Must End
Child marriage is a devastating reality for millions in Pakistan, a country with the sixth-highest number of child brides worldwide. An estimated 19 million girls are married before their 18th birthday, often facing serious health risks and limited opportunities. Nearly half of these girls become pregnant before 18, endangering both their lives and their babies’. Education, a critical pathway to empowerment, is also out of reach for many, with only 13% of married girls completing secondary school compared to 44% of their unmarried peers.
In the campaign video, Saba Qamar, UNICEF’s National Ambassador for Child Rights, passionately addresses this crisis. “Why should any child in Pakistan be forced into a marriage and a future they did not choose?” she asks. Her words echo the urgency of protecting young girls from a practice that steals their potential and perpetuates cycles of poverty and inequality.
Saba Qamar’s Inspiring Advocacy
Saba Qamar’s involvement brings a powerful voice to this cause. During her visit to Sujawal, Sindh, she witnessed the devastating impact of child marriage firsthand. She also met young heroes like 14-year-old Anam Nazir, who courageously stopped three child marriages in her community. “I am proud to lend my voice to this campaign,” Qamar shares, “for all the girls, and sometimes boys too, who suffer behind closed doors because of child marriage.”
Her advocacy is a beacon of hope, inspiring communities to challenge harmful traditions and champion children’s rights. By amplifying the voices of young activists like Anam, Qamar and UNICEF are showing that change is possible when communities unite.
The Roots of Child Marriage in Pakistan
Child marriage in Pakistan is driven by complex factors, including poverty, gender norms, and societal expectations. As Abdullah Fadil, UNICEF Representative in Pakistan, explains, “We cannot allow the circumstances a child is born into dictate their entire futures.” He emphasizes the need for legal reforms, cultural shifts, and greater investment in girls’ education and well-being. “How can Pakistan succeed when half the team is left on the sidelines?” he asks, urging the nation to empower its girls.
UNICEF’s campaign highlights the need for systemic change, including raising the legal marriage age to 18 across all provinces. The recent decision by the Islamabad Capital Territory to adopt this standard, following Sindh province, is a significant step forward. UNICEF is calling on other provinces to follow suit and enforce these laws to protect children.
UNICEF’s Comprehensive Approach
UNICEF, in collaboration with UNFPA, UN Women, and government partners, is tackling child marriage through multiple strategies:
- Advocating for Legal Reform: Pushing for a uniform marriage age of 18 across Pakistan.
- Community Engagement: Encouraging dialogue with parents, caregivers, and religious leaders through campaigns like BOLO (Speak Up).
- Empowering Youth: Supporting girl-led activism and youth champions who inspire change in their communities.
These efforts aim to dismantle the barriers that keep girls from reaching their full potential, ensuring they can learn, grow, and thrive.
Join the Movement to End Child Marriage
The fight to end child marriage is a shared responsibility. By raising awareness, supporting legal reforms, and empowering young voices, we can create a future where every child in Pakistan has the freedom to choose their path. As Abdullah Fadil notes, “Ms. Qamar is a powerful advocate for children,” and her role in this campaign is sparking hope and action across the nation.
You can make a difference too. Share the campaign video, join the conversation with #EndChildMarriage, and support organizations like UNICEF in their mission to protect children’s rights. Together, we can ensure that every girl—and every child—has the chance to dream big and build a brighter future.
