The Provincial Alliance to End Early Child and Forced Marriages has praised a resolution in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to raise the minimum marriage age for girls to 18.
The Provincial Alliance to End Early Child and Forced Marriages has expressed strong support for a recent resolution introduced in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Assembly by MPA Amna Sardar, Joint Secretary of the Women Parliamentary Caucus. The resolution aims to increase the minimum marriage age for girls from 16 to 18 years.
Amna Sardar moved the resolution in a bid to protect young girls from early and forced marriages, which have been prevalent issues in the region.
The Provincial Alliance, comprising various organizations dedicated to ending such practices, has hailed the resolution as a significant step towards ensuring that young women can pursue their education and personal development without fear of early matrimony. The alliance believes this change will help reduce the incidence of domestic violence and exploitation among girls who are forced into marriage at an early age.
"This is a commendable initiative by MPA Amna Sardar," said Ayesha Khan, spokesperson for the Provincial Alliance. "Raising the minimum marriage age to 18 years will empower young women and give them more opportunities in life."
The resolution has garnered support from other members of the KP Assembly who recognize the importance of this measure in addressing the socio-economic challenges faced by girls in the province. By aligning with international norms, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is taking a crucial step towards promoting gender equality and protecting its youth.
This move comes at a time when awareness about child rights and protection has been growing across Pakistan. The KP Assembly's decision to raise the minimum marriage age for girls reflects a broader commitment to safeguarding the future of young women in the province.
