Is early marriage a common practice at present?

Early marriage, defined as marriage before the age of 18, is no longer common in many parts of the world, although it still exists in some regions, primarily in developing countries. Here's an overview of the current status of early marriage:

1. Global Decline: In recent decades, there has been a significant decline in the prevalence of early marriage globally. According to UNICEF data, the proportion of women aged 20-24 years who were married before the age of 18 decreased from 28% in 2000 to 15% in 2020.

2. Regional Variations: Early marriage rates vary widely among different regions and countries. South Asia and sub-Saharan Africa have historically had higher rates of early marriage compared to other parts of the world. However, progress in reducing early marriage has been observed in many countries within these regions as well.

3. Causes: Factors such as poverty, limited access to education, socio-cultural norms, and gender inequality contribute to the persistence of early marriage in some communities.

4. Negative Consequences: Early marriage can have several negative consequences for individuals, including limited opportunities for education and career development, increased risk of health issues, and reduced empowerment in decision-making.

5. International Initiatives: Various international organizations and governments are working to address early marriage through initiatives focused on promoting girls' education, empowering women, and raising awareness about the harmful consequences of early marriage.

6. Progress: Despite the challenges, there has been substantial progress in reducing early marriage globally, and efforts continue to ensure that more girls and young women have the opportunity to make their own choices about their lives, including marriage.