Child marriage and child motherhood
Child marriage is deeply embedded in cultural traditions, which can be difficult to change.
Girls who marry as children are often more exposed to the health risks of early sexual activity and childbearing, including HIV and obstetric fistula.
Lacking status and power, these girls often suffer domestic violence, sexual abuse and social isolation.
Early marriage also almost always deprives girls of their education or of meaningful work. This contributes to persistent poverty.