UNICEF has unveiled a powerful video campaign featuring National Ambassador Saba Qamar, aimed at raising awareness about the urgent need to end child marriage in Pakistan. The initiative calls on communities across the country to speak out against the harmful practice, while reinforcing UNICEF’s commitment to protecting child rights and empowering girls.
In the video, Qamar highlights the devastating impact of child marriage on girls’ health, education, and future opportunities. She recalls her visit to Sujawal, Sindh, where she met 14-year-old Anam Nazir, a youth activist who successfully stopped three child marriages in her community. “We cannot allow this to go unchallenged,” said Qamar, pledging her voice for children suffering in silence.
Pakistan ranks sixth globally in the number of child brides, with nearly 19 million girls married before the age of 18. Alarmingly, half become pregnant before turning 18, risking severe health complications. The data also shows only 13% of married girls complete secondary education, compared to 44% of their unmarried peers.
UNICEF Representative Abdullah Fadil emphasized the need for systemic change, including legal reforms, stronger enforcement, and investment in adolescent girls. “We cannot let the conditions of birth determine a child’s entire life,” he stated. Fadil praised recent legislation in the Islamabad Capital Territory raising the legal marriage age to 18, encouraging other provinces to follow suit.
The campaign is part of a broader UNICEF initiative in partnership with UNFPA, UN Women, and government stakeholders. It includes public awareness drives like the BOLO (Speak Up) campaign, youth-led activism, and engagement with religious and community leaders.
With Saba Qamar’s influential voice backing the cause, UNICEF hopes to accelerate progress toward a future where every girl in Pakistan can grow, learn, and thrive.
