There is considerable evidence that social awareness in Nepal has risen, improving the prospects of a better quality of life. Yet many social evils persist, particularly in communities where education, awareness and economic opportunities remain limited. Child marriage is one such practice. Despite progress nationally, it remains entrenched in some regions and communities, undermining children’s rights and futures.

A recent UNICEF report shows that the proportion of girls married before age 15 was halved, from 10 percent to 5 percent, in 2024-25. More girls are staying in school, and the median age at first marriage has increased from 17 years in 2001 to 19.6 years in 2024-25. While these figures indicate progress, the gains have not been shared equally.

Poverty remains the strongest predictor of child marriage. Girls from the poorest households are 4.4 times more likely to marry before age 18 than those from the richest households. While rates among the poorest families have changed little in recent years, wealthier households have made much faster progress. This disparity shows that awareness campaigns alone cannot eliminate the practice. Families need economic security, and girls must have access to education and opportunities to shape their own futures.

The situation in Sudurpaschim is particularly concerning. The provincial government has allocated funds for prevention campaigns year after year, yet child marriage persists, raising questions about the effectiveness and continuity of its efforts. According to Sudurpaschim Police, only 36 cases were registered across the province between fiscal years 2020-21 and 2025-26, even though the practice remains prevalent in local communities. Child marriages occur in urban as well as rural areas, but many cases never reach the police. This points to possible underreporting and the limitations of existing prevention mechanisms.

Nepal’s law prohibits marriage before the age of 20. Section 173 of the National Penal (Code) Act, 2017, declares child marriages void and prescribes imprisonment of up to three years and a fine of up to Rs30,000. But legislation alone cannot eradicate a practice sustained by traditional beliefs, family pressure and economic hardship. The continued prevalence of child marriage is a failure of prevention and enforcement that the state must address.

Child marriage can have lasting consequences for physical and mental development, education and health. Girls who become pregnant before their bodies are ready face additional health risks. Social and family pressure to have children soon after marriage can compound these risks, further restricting young women’s choices and opportunities.

Nepal aims to end child marriage by 2030. Meeting that goal demands concerted action, not the routine allocation of funds for campaigns whose impact is unclear. Provincial and local governments must assess whether their programmes are changing attitudes and reducing cases. They should identify communities where the practice is widespread, improve reporting mechanisms and coordinate with schools, police and child protection agencies.

Keeping children in school is particularly important. Education can help children recognise their rights and resist pressure to marry early. Support for disadvantaged families can address some of the economic pressures behind the practice. Parents, teachers and community leaders must also be involved in challenging harmful social norms. Children themselves should be encouraged to understand why marriage must wait until the legally prescribed age.

With 2030 approaching, Nepal must set out concrete measures to accelerate progress. Ending child marriage requires sustained political commitment, effective enforcement of existing laws and targeted support for vulnerable families.