By Natalia Rueda 
In a significant step toward protecting the rights of children, Colombia has officially banned child marriage. The Colombian Congress passed legislation that prohibits marriage for individuals under the age of 18, a measure aimed at addressing the harmful impact of early unions, which disproportionately affect girls. This law is a crucial move in combating child exploitation, improving educational opportunities for young people, and reducing risks of violence and early pregnancies. Once signed by President Gustavo Petro, the legislation will make child marriage illegal throughout the country, marking a significant milestone in the fight against gender-based violence and child exploitation.
Child marriage has long been a persistent problem in Colombia, where a 2022 UNICEF report ranked the country 20th globally for unions involving girls under 15. Despite a growing outcry from both domestic and international organizations, the practice continued to affect thousands of minors, limiting their opportunities and rights.
The new law not only prohibits child marriage but also introduces a national program aimed at supporting children and adolescents through education, counseling, and life alternatives, ensuring they can pursue their dreams without the constraints of early marriage. The initiative underscores the importance of protecting the autonomy and development of young girls, who are disproportionately affected by early unions.
The bill’s passage has been widely celebrated by child advocacy groups, feminist organizations, and human rights defenders, who have long fought to address the societal and cultural factors enabling such practices. Colombia’s legal transformation is seen as a victory for children’s rights, a clear message that the country is committed to creating a safer and more equitable future for its youngest citizens.