Initiative aims to highlight dangers and long-term consequences of forcing children, especially girls, into early marriages
KARACHI: (UrduPoint/Pakistan Point News-May 30th, 2025) The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) on Friday launched a new awareness campaign in Pakistan to combat the ongoing issue of child marriage.
The initiative aims to highlight the dangers and long-term consequences of forcing children, especially girls, into early marriages.
As part of this campaign, UNICEF’s National Ambassador for Children’s Rights, renowned actress Saba Qamar, has recorded a powerful and emotional video message. In the video, Saba Qamar urges society to speak up against this deeply rooted practice and stresses the importance of giving girls the right to choose their future.
“We must not remain silent,” said Qamar in the video. “Why should any child in Pakistan be forced into a marriage or future they didn’t choose? Despite the clear dangers to their health and education, how can we ignore this without challenging it?”
UNICEF stated that the campaign and video aim not only to raise awareness about the serious issue of child marriage but also to reaffirm the organization’s commitment to protecting children's rights and empowering girls across Pakistan.
Saba Qamar also reflected on her personal experience during a visit to Sujawal District in Sindh, where she witnessed the impact of UNICEF’s work firsthand. “Last year, I saw real stories where UNICEF was making a difference in children’s lives,” she said.
She recounted meeting a 14-year-old girl, Anam Nazir, who successfully stopped three child marriages within her community. “These young champions give us hope for a better future,” Qamar added.
Pakistan, according to some reports, currently ranks sixth in the world for the highest number of child marriages. An estimated 19 million girls in the country have been married before the age of 18.
Nearly half of these girls become mothers before turning 18, placing them at serious risk to their health and well-being. Moreover, only 13% of married girls complete secondary education, compared to 44% of unmarried girls, significantly limiting their future opportunities.
