Colombia has become the latest country to prohibit child marriage without exceptions, after the Senate passed the legislation “Son Niñas No Esposas” (“They’re girls, not wives”). This new law represents a crucial step in protecting the rights of girls and adolescents by prohibiting child marriage and de facto marital unions without exceptions for individuals under the age of 18. This reform will close a legal loophole that has enabled harmful practices and violated constitutional principles such as the right to integral development, equality, and protection against all forms of violence.
By banning child marriage and early unions, Colombia is making a clear commitment to gender equality and the rights of children and adolescents.
UNICEF believes around 12 million girls under age 18 become brides each year, with around 640 million women alive today who were child brides.
Source: Equality Now
