Child Marriage Ban in Islamabad Sparks Hope for Nationwide Change
Islamabad, June 2025 – In a landmark development for child protection, Pakistan’s capital city has officially enacted a law banning child marriages. Under the new regulation, the legal minimum age for marriage is now set at 18 years for both boys and girls, marking a major shift in national policy.
The Islamabad Assembly passed the bill with strong support from lawmakers, social activists, and public health professionals. Advocates of the law see it as a powerful step toward protecting minors—especially young girls—from early and forced marriages.
Human rights groups across the country have widely praised the decision, calling it a potential model for other provinces where child marriage is still allowed under certain conditions.
Some conservative and religious groups have raised concerns, arguing the law goes against traditional and cultural practices. In response, lawmakers clarified that the legislation is intended solely to protect children’s health, education, and future—not to interfere with religious beliefs.
According to UNICEF, Pakistan ranks among the top South Asian countries for child marriage. Marrying at a young age often results in serious problems, such as health complications, loss of education, and long-term poverty. This new law hopes to end that pattern by ensuring that children, particularly girls, stay in school and have a safe childhood.
Currently, Islamabad is the first region in Pakistan to implement a complete ban on child marriage. However, campaigners are optimistic that this positive change will inspire similar action in other parts of the country.
This reform highlights a growing understanding in Pakistan about the importance of children’s rights and the country’s commitment to meet international human rights obligations.
