Bangladesh: Curb child marriage

THE study report that 64 per cent of women between 20 and 24 years of age were victims of child marriage is disquieting. The figure palpably demonstrates how the evil practice continues despite all the laws and efforts at various levels to combat it. The survey conducted by Plan International, Bangladesh and ICDDR, B, further shows that the malaise is widespread in the rural areas. There 86 per cent of women were subjected to marriage in their childhood to fulfil the wishes of their parents. Patriarchy, reinforced by poverty, illiteracy, absence of awareness and lack of law enforcement only provided a fertile ground on which the practice thrived. In addition, negative social mindset, discriminatory treatment towards a female child, and hostile social environment lead to marrying them off at an early age. There is also a perception of the female child being a burden on families, particularly in the rural areas. All this necessitates the involvement of the community in fighting social prejudice side by side with the rights and advocacy groups lending a hand in putting a lid on child marriage. Education, and more intensive campaign by the government and different stakeholders, should play a complementary role for the work on the ground.