"Govt committed to end child marriage by 2040"

Women and Children Affairs State Minister Fazilatun Nessa Indira today (October 4, 2022) said that the government is determined to reduce child marriage to zero by 2040 and urged everyone to work unitedly in this regard.

"The incidence of child marriage increased during the pandemic, which has now decreased again. Thousands of organisations are working to protect the rights of our girl child. If we are willing to stop child marriage, we can surely prevent it," she said.

She made the comments at a discussion meeting and prize distribution and cultural programme at Bangladesh Shishu Academy auditorium, jointly organised by National Girl Child Advocacy Forum and Bangladesh Shishu Academy, on the occasion of celebrating National Girl Child Day 2022.

Bangladesh Shishu Academy Chairperson Lucky Enam said there was a time when girls were seen as an added burden to the family, which is why families would prefer marrying them off at an early age.

"However, the situation has changed drastically and today, girls are often playing the role of pioneers," she said, adding that "Girl Child Day should not be limited to a single-day celebration, but we should be aware of the rights of our girl children throughout the year."

National Girl Child Advocacy Forum Secretary Nasima Akhter Jolly said girls can achieve everything and take any challenges if they are given a safe environment and proper investment.

"The current government has also taken various positive initiatives to ensure the rights and opportunities of girl children. However, so many challenges are still there," she said. 

Department of Women Affairs Director General Farida Parvin said her department has been working on formulating necessary laws, policies and action plans to ensure education, nutrition and security of girl children.

She also urged the parents to aware of their rights and give them proper time.