LOGICALLY, EARLY MARRIAGE HAS BEEN STUPENDOUSLY ADVOCATED FOR, CONVERSELY, JUVENILE MARRIAGES CAN CAUSE MANIFOLDS OF VOICE TO THE NATION AT LARGE, ELUCIDATE THE ILLS DERIVED FROM JUVENILE MARRIAGES.

Juvenile marriage, or child marriage, refers to the practice of marrying off children, typically under the age of 18, to older adults. This practice poses numerous harms and ills, both to the individuals involved and to society as a whole. Here are some of the main negative consequences of juvenile marriage.

1. Health risks: Young girls who are forced into marriage often face severe health consequences due to early childbirth. Their bodies are not fully developed, increasing the risk of complications, maternal mortality, and malnutrition for both the mother and child.

2. Limited education: Child marriage often results in the early withdrawal of girls from formal education, denying them the opportunity for personal growth, development, and empowerment. This perpetuates a cycle of poverty and restricts their future prospects and opportunities.

3. Psychological impact: Children forced into marriage often suffer from psychological trauma and emotional distress. They are more vulnerable to depression, anxiety, domestic abuse, and a lack of autonomy and decision-making power.

4. Economic challenges: Child marriage perpetuates poverty cycles as young girls are often unable to complete their education, acquire job skills, or access adequate economic opportunities. This leads to limited financial independence and perpetuates economic dependence on their spouse or family.

5. Gender inequality and human rights violations: Juvenile marriage reinforces gender inequalities and violates the basic human rights of children, particularly girls. It deprives them of their right to choose their own future, decide on their life partner, and freely express their opinions.

6. Increased rates of violence: Child brides are more vulnerable to domestic violence, sexual abuse, and exploitation. They lack the physical and emotional maturity to handle spousal relationships, resulting in increased risks of emotional, physical, and sexual violence.

7. Population growth challenges: High rates of child marriages contribute to population growth challenges, as girls who marry early have a higher likelihood of giving birth at a young age and having more children throughout their lives. This amplifies demographic and societal pressures, particularly in already resource-constrained communities.

      It is important to address and eradicate child marriage through comprehensive legal frameworks, education, awareness campaigns, and support systems to ensure the well-being and empowerment of young girls.

WRITTEN BY: AZEEZ ROFIAT TAYE