The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) has established November 27 as the International Day for the Elimination of Child, Early and Forced Marriage, thereby providing an international framework to combat child marriage. This resolution was adopted by consensus on September 4.

It is under the leadership of Sierra Leone, with India serving as one of the co-sponsors. The chosen date holds particular relevance for India as it coincides with the launch in 2024 of the Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat (Child Marriage Free India) campaign. This initiative is part of broader international efforts aimed at eradicating child marriage in its various forms.

Bhuwan Ribhu, the founder of Just Rights for Children (JRC), highlighted that the initiative for a dedicated international observance was first proposed at the UN Commission on the Status of Women in March 2026. He noted that prior to the adoption of this resolution, a total of 66 countries had co-sponsored it.

Challenges Persist in India Despite Decline

India continues to face a considerable challenge in combating child marriage, despite a noted decline in its prevalence. The National Family Health Survey 6 (2023–24) indicates that 20.1 per cent of women aged 20 to 24 were married before the age of 18, a drop from 23.3 per cent in NFHS-5 (2019–21). While this decline is promising, it also underscores the need for ongoing efforts to address the issue.

Ribhu pointed out that various factors, such as poverty, school dropout rates, societal norms, and migration, often conspire to perpetuate child marriage. Maintaining children’s educational engagement is crucial in this regard. He argued for effective monitoring systems to track school attendance and identify children at risk of dropping out.

According to JRC, its partners have successfully prevented or halted over 5.5 lakh child marriages in India. Additionally, they have aided in identifying and enrolling over 12 lakh out-of-school children, showcasing the potential impact of sustained educational efforts in combatting this issue.

Int’l Day Linked to Sustainable Development Goals

The newly established international observance is also associated with Sustainable Development Goal 5.3. It strives for the elimination of detrimental practices, including child, early, and forced marriage, by the year 2030. The UN resolution calls for enhanced legal frameworks, rigorous enforcement, investment in girls’ education, and greater community involvement.

Ribhu emphasised that the declaration should translate into proactive measures by governments, educational institutions, local administrations, and communities. He urged that the annual observance be leveraged as a platform to evaluate progress and bolster accountability.

It is also to ensure that children at risk of early marriage or dropout receive the necessary support. Through these coordinated efforts, the aim remains to foster an environment where children can grow up free from the threat of premature marriage and continue their education, thereby contributing to a brighter, more equitable future.

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