What is child marriage?
Child marriage is defined as a formal or informal union where one or both parties are under the age of 18 years. It is a violation of human rights and is usually forced upon children, especially girls, by their families for various reasons such as poverty, tradition, and cultural beliefs.
Why do children refuse to marry?
Children may refuse to get married for various reasons, such as not being ready to take on adult responsibilities, wanting to pursue education, or wanting to have a say in their own future. In some cases, children are forced into marriage against their will, and they may try to escape and flee their home and country to avoid this fate.
What happens if a child decides to flee?
If a child refuses to marry and decides to flee their home and country, they may face several challenges and consequences:
- Lack of legal protection: In many poor countries, child marriage is not considered illegal, and therefore, the child may not have access to legal protection. This makes them vulnerable to abuse and exploitation.
- Loss of family and community support: When a child flees their home and country, they often leave behind their family and community, which can be a significant source of support and protection. This can leave the child feeling lonely, scared, and vulnerable.
- Risk of trafficking and exploitation: Children who flee their homes and countries are at risk of being trafficked or exploited. They may be forced into child labor, prostitution, or other forms of exploitation.
- Emotional trauma: The experience of fleeing their home and country can be traumatic for a child. They may experience feelings of fear, anxiety, and depression, especially if they are alone and have no support system.
How can we help?
It is essential to raise awareness about the consequences of child marriage and provide support to children who refuse to get married and decide to flee. Here are some ways we can help:
- Empowering children: We can empower children by educating them about their rights and providing them with resources and support to make informed decisions about their future.
- Supporting organizations: There are many organizations working towards ending child marriage and supporting children who have fled their homes. We can support these organizations through donations or volunteering.
- Advocating for laws and policies: We can advocate for laws and policies that protect children from forced marriage and provide support for those who have fled their homes.
Conclusion
Child marriage is a violation of human rights and can have significant consequences for children, especially if they refuse to marry and decide to flee their home and country. It is our responsibility to raise awareness, support organizations, and advocate for laws and policies that protect children and give them the freedom to choose their own future.