In the midst of an evolving legal landscape, New Hampshire has recently taken a monumental step forward with the introduction of a new bill aimed at curbing child marriage—a pressing issue that has long called for comprehensive legislative action. This reform represents not merely a legal adjustment but a significant leap toward safeguarding the innocence and rights of children. For parents, guardians, and advocates of child welfare, understanding the nuances of this law is pivotal in ensuring the protection and empowerment of our younger generation.
In the United States, child marriage is still legal in many states. However, recent efforts by advocacy groups and lawmakers have led to a change in this harmful practice. One such state is New Hampshire, where on May 2nd, the House passed a bill to raise the minimum age of marriage from 13 to 18. The bill is now awaiting Governor Chris Sununu’s signature.
The current law in New Hampshire allows girls as young as 13 and boys as young as 14 to get married with parental consent and court approval. This means that a child can be legally married off before they are even able to vote, drive or sign a contract. It also puts them at risk of physical, emotional and sexual abuse.
So why is New Hampshire finally taking steps to raise the legal age of marriage? Let’s take a closer look at the issue.
The Harmful Effects of Child Marriage
Child marriage is a violation of human rights that has serious consequences for both girls and boys. It often results in early pregnancy and childbirth, which can lead to health complications and even death for young girls. Education and economic opportunities are also limited for child brides, as they are expected to take on household duties and bear children.
Moreover, child marriage perpetuates the cycle of poverty and gender inequality. Girls who marry early are more likely to drop out of school, which can limit their future prospects and potential. They are also at a higher risk of domestic violence and have less control over their own bodies and reproductive choices.
The Movement to End Child Marriage
In recent years, there has been a growing movement to end child marriage worldwide. In 2018, the United Nations launched the Global Campaign to End Child Marriage, which aims to raise awareness about the issue and advocate for laws and policies that protect children from marriage.
Many organizations and activists have also been working to raise awareness and push for legislative change at the state level in the United States. New Hampshire is just one of several states that have recently proposed legislation to raise the minimum age of marriage.
The Road Ahead
While raising the legal age of marriage is an important step towards protecting young individuals, there is still much work to be done in addressing the root causes of child marriage. This includes addressing cultural and societal norms that perpetuate the practice, as well as providing education and economic opportunities for girls and boys.
Individuals can also play a role in ending child marriage by supporting organizations working towards this cause, educating themselves and others about the harmful effects of child marriage, and advocating for policy change.
Our Words
Child marriage is a harmful practice that violates the rights and well-being of millions of children worldwide. It perpetuates cycles of poverty and gender inequality, and it is crucial for governments, organizations, and individuals to take action to end this practice. By working together towards this goal, we can ensure that all children have the chance to thrive and reach their full potential.