KATHMANDU, Feb 17: Stakeholders have emphasized keeping the legal age of marriage at 20 years, as decided by the government.
Currently, Nepali law prohibits marriage until the age of 20. National statistics indicate that 40 percent of marriages are still under this age because enforcement is weak. There have been recent discussions taking into account the lowering of the legal age of marriage to 18. Experts, however, opine that the existing law should be enforced strictly instead.
Advisory task force recommends keeping marriage age at 18
The authorities point out that postponing marriage until age 20 acts as a protector of education, health, and employment opportunities for young people. Murari Prasad Kharel, Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission, stated that despite provisions in law, child marriages are still common. He stressed that stronger enforcement is needed to stop child marriage.
Mina Sharma, Chairperson of the National Campaign for Child-Friendly Peace Zones, condemned current debates regarding reducing the legal age of marriage. In her opinion, instead of changing the law, the government must focus on its proper implementation. She warned that lowering the age without analyzing the impact of the present law would harm the future of young girls.
Sharma also pointed out that traditional social norms continue to drive early marriages, creating long-term challenges for adolescents. She urged the government to enforce the law effectively and increase public awareness to combat child marriage. Stakeholders agreed that coordinated efforts are necessary to protect children’s rights and reduce early marriages in Nepal.
