ISLAMABAD: UNICEF has launched a powerful new video campaign featuring its National Ambassador, acclaimed actress Saba Qamar, to spotlight the urgent need to end child marriage in Pakistan.
Campaign Urges Communities to Speak Out
In the video, Qamar calls on communities to raise their voices against child marriage, which affects millions of girls across Pakistan. Drawing from her experience in Sujawal, Sindh, she highlights the bravery of young activists like 14-year-old Anam Nazir, who stopped three child marriages in her village.
“Why should any child in Pakistan be forced into a marriage and a future they did not choose?” Qamar says. “I’m proud to stand for the girls—and boys too—whose voices are silenced behind closed doors.”
Child Marriage: A National Crisis
Pakistan ranks sixth globally in child marriages, with nearly 19 million girls married before 18. Almost half become pregnant before adulthood, often facing life-threatening health risks and interrupted education. Only 13% of married girls finish secondary school, compared to 44% of their unmarried peers.
UNICEF Pushes for Legal and Cultural Reform
UNICEF has welcomed the Islamabad Capital Territory’s recent move to raise the legal marriage age to 18, joining Sindh as a trailblazer. However, the organization urges other provinces to act swiftly and align with this standard.
“We need legal enforcement, cultural change, and greater investment in girls’ futures,” said Abdullah Fadil, UNICEF Representative in Pakistan. “Pakistan can’t move forward if half its potential is left behind.”
A Broader Advocacy Movement
This campaign is part of UNICEF’s collaboration with UNFPA, UN Women, and government partners. Key efforts include:
- Raising the legal age of marriage nationwide
- Community engagement through initiatives like BOLO (Speak Up)
- Promoting youth-led activism
“Ms. Qamar is a powerful voice for children,” Fadil added. “Her support helps shine a light on these urgent challenges and build a future where every child can thrive.”
