Pakistan's National Assembly passes a child marriage act
This news video reports that Pakistan's National Assembly has passed a child marriage act. Its description explains why the practice is so common.
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A widespread practice
Child, early and forced marriage is widespread in Pakistan. It happens in every region, and it is most common in Sindh Province. It affects girls far more than boys.
Early and child marriage are a direct result of deep-rooted gender inequality, traditional practices and customs.
Honour and "burden"
Female chastity is closely tied to family honour. This pushes families to marry girls young, to prevent sexual transgressions and the damage they would do to the family's reputation.
A girl is also seen as "someone else's property" who will one day move to her husband's home. So parents do not invest in their daughter's education, and they marry her off early to relieve themselves of a "burden".