UNFPA delegation congratulated Punjab Assembly for passing child marriage law setting minimum age at 18 years.
A delegation led by United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Deputy Representative Dr Gulnara Kadyrkulova met with Punjab Assembly Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan on Saturday. The delegation praised the assembly for its passage of the Punjab Child Marriage Restraint Act 2026, which sets the minimum legal age for marriage at 18 years for both girls and boys. This landmark legislation aims to protect young people from harmful practices such as child marriage.
The UNFPA representative expressed her satisfaction with the progress made in Punjab towards safeguarding the rights of children. She emphasized that this law is a significant step forward in promoting gender equality and empowering youth within the province.
Punjab Assembly Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan welcomed the delegation and thanked them for their support. He stated, "We are committed to implementing this legislation effectively and ensuring its success in protecting our young citizens."
The UNFPA has been actively involved in various initiatives aimed at reducing child marriage rates across Pakistan. This latest achievement is part of a broader effort to improve the legal framework that protects vulnerable populations.
This development comes as part of ongoing efforts by international organizations and local governments to address social issues affecting youth in Punjab. The passage of this law underscores the importance of collaboration between national authorities, civil society groups, and UN agencies in promoting child rights and gender equality.
