In a significant policy initiative, the Royal Commonwealth Society and Plan International have called on leaders of the Commonwealth nations to take decisive action against early and forced marriage. This appeal comes in anticipation of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Perth, Australia, highlighting a critical issue that affects millions of girls globally.
Early and forced marriage remains a deeply entrenched problem across the globe, particularly within the Commonwealth where it severely impacts the lives of young girls. According to a policy paper released by the Royal Commonwealth Society and Plan International, over ten million girls are subjected to early and forced marriage annually worldwide. Shockingly, 12 of the top 20 countries where this practice is most prevalent are Commonwealth members.
The policy paper, titled "Empowering Girls: What the Commonwealth Can Do to End Early and Forced Marriage," serves as a clarion call for action. Patrick Wintour, Associate Director of the Royal Commonwealth Society, emphasized that early and forced marriage is a major barrier to girls' education, health, and economic empowerment. He urged Commonwealth leaders to fulfill their commitments by collaboratively working to eradicate this practice.
Marie Staunton, Plan International’s UK Chief Executive, shared poignant encounters with child brides across the Commonwealth, who expressed deep regret over their forced marriages. She stressed the power of Commonwealth leaders to transform the lives of millions of girls by abolishing this harmful practice.
The policy paper outlines several critical steps for Commonwealth countries:
Read the full policy paper here.
The theme for CHOGM 2011, 'Women as Agents of Change,' perfectly aligns with the need to address early and forced marriage. An Eminent Persons Group is also expected to recommend reforms that strengthen the Commonwealth’s role in protecting and promoting human rights, focusing on the rights of women and girls.
The initiative by the Royal Commonwealth Society and Plan International highlights a critical issue that requires immediate and sustained action. As Commonwealth leaders gather in Perth, there is a hopeful anticipation that this meeting will mark a turning point in the global fight against early and forced marriage, ensuring a brighter, more equitable future for millions of girls worldwide.
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