From Tradition to Transformation: Ending Child Marriage in Nepal

Abstract

Early marriage of people under 18 years old continues to be a major human rights problem which produces enduring effects on their health and social life and economic stability. The world has made progress but 640 million girls and women entered into child marriage and South Asia including Nepal demonstrates the highest rates of this practice. The practice of early marriage affects one-third of Nepalese women and 10% of Nepalese boys because they face poverty and lack education and follow cultural and religious traditions. Early marriage results in premature childbearing and school abandonment and physical abuse against women. The Nepalese law prohibits marriage before age 20 but poor enforcement along with traditional beliefs prevent the country from making progress. The Preferences–Options–Beliefs model together with Social Norms Theory and Nepal's 2016 national plan demonstrate effective methods to stop child marriage. The achievement of SDG 5.3 depends on enhanced policy implementation together with educational programs and community-based initiatives to eliminate child marriage.