CHILD MARRIAGE Meaning and
Definition
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Child marriage refers to the practice of marrying children, usually under the legal age of consent, which varies across countries, regions, and cultures. It is a prevalent form of forced marriage that occurs worldwide, predominantly affecting girls. Child marriage is characterized by a significant power imbalance, as children lack the necessary physical, emotional, and intellectual maturity to make informed decisions about marriage.
This harmful tradition robs children of their rights, denying them their childhood, education, and opportunities for personal and professional growth. Often, child marriages are arranged by families or communities for economic, cultural, or social reasons, resulting in girls being married off to older men. Child brides face numerous physical, psychological, and emotional challenges, such as increased risk of domestic violence, sexual abuse, and health complications related to early pregnancies.
Efforts to combat child marriage involve promoting awareness, education, and legal reforms. Organizations and initiatives aim to strengthen laws, policies, and implementation mechanisms to prevent child marriages and provide support to those affected. Advocacy campaigns aim to raise awareness about the negative impact of child marriage on individuals, families, and communities, emphasizing the importance of gender equality, universal education, and the rights of children.
Addressing child marriage is fundamental to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, such as ending poverty, promoting gender equality, and ensuring the well-being and empowerment of all children.
Etymology of CHILD MARRIAGE
The term "child marriage" is a compound word consisting of two parts: "child" and "marriage".
1. Child: The word "child" originated from the Old English word "ċild", which means a young human being below the age of puberty or adulthood. It can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "*kilþam" or "*kilþō", meaning offspring or young. The meaning of "child" in this sense has remained relatively consistent throughout its history.
2. Marriage: The word "marriage" has a more complex etymology. It comes from the Old French word "marier", which means "to marry" or "to wed". This Old French term ultimately evolved from the Latin word "maritare" or "maritari", derived from "maritus", meaning husband.
