"A Major Step Forward for Child Protection in Colombia: Banning Underage Marriage

A Major Step Forward for Child Protection in Colombia: Banning Underage MarriageColombia has made a significant stride towards protecting children's rights by approving a bill that bans underage marriage, a practice that has been prevalent since 1887. This landmark decision marks a turning point in the country's efforts to ensure that all children and adolescents are treated with dignity and respect.The Challenge: Underage MarriageUnderage marriage is a widespread issue in Colombia, particularly affecting girls between the ages of 14 and 18. According to UNICEF, one in five girls in this age group is already in a union. This practice not only violates children's rights but also has severe consequences for their physical and emotional well-being.The New Law: A Comprehensive Public PolicyThe newly approved bill not only prohibits underage marriage but also establishes a comprehensive public policy to address the root causes of this problem. Senator Clara López emphasized the importance of this consensus-driven approach, stating that it "implies prohibition but also a robust public policy that reflects changing customs and raises awareness among the population about the great harm done to children and adolescents with marriages and unions."The Impact: Protecting Children's RightsBy banning underage marriage, Colombia is taking a crucial step towards protecting children's rights. As UN Women head Bibiana Aido Almagro noted, "These practices severely affect the rights to life, health, education, and integrity of women and girls and negatively impact their development." The new law will help prevent gender violence, poverty, and discrimination, allowing girls to make informed decisions about their lives.The Consequences: Encroaching on ChildhoodUnderage marriage can have devastating consequences for children. As UNICEF's Andrea Tague Montaña explained, it "reinforces discrimination and the idea that the best thing that can happen to them is to marry and have children." Girls who enter into an unequal power relationship with older partners often lose control over their lives, forced to take on adult roles and responsibilities.The Need for Change: Encroaching on ChildhoodThe new law marks a significant shift towards recognizing children's rights. By encroaching on the harmful practices of underage marriage, Colombia is sending a powerful message that all children deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. As Ms. Montaña emphasized, "These are girls who stop studying, who lose their rights by entering an early union. It is important to call on society to stop normalizing early unions; this is a violation of rights."Looking Ahead: Strengthening National Public PolicyThe new law will come into effect once it is signed by President Gustavo Petro. The bill also establishes actions to strengthen national public policy on childhood and adolescence, including measures to restore the rights of children and adolescents affected by underage marriages and unions. This special emphasis on remote rural areas and vulnerable communities will ensure that all children are protected and supported.ConclusionColombia's decision to ban underage marriage is a major step forward for child protection. By encroaching on harmful practices, the country is sending a powerful message that all children deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. As we look ahead, it is essential to continue building momentum towards creating a more just and equitable society for all children.Key Takeaways Colombia has approved a bill banning underage marriage. The new law establishes a comprehensive public policy to address the root causes of underage marriage. Underage marriage affects one in five girls between the ages of 14 and 18. The practice violates children's rights and has severe consequences for their physical and emotional well-being.Related Keywords Child protection Underage marriage Children's rights Gender equality Poverty Discrimination

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