As a survivor of child marriage, I know firsthand the profound impact that being forced into marriage at just 16 can have on a young life. The United Nations has taken a courageous stand against child marriage, advocating for a minimum legal age of 18. They recognise that no child is truly prepared for the complexities and responsibilities of marriage. And yet, in Scotland, the law still allows individuals as young as 16 to marry.
When I was forced into a marriage at 16, my childhood was stripped away in an instant. I was just a child - a teenager navigating school, friendships, and the world around me... then the unthinkable happened. The emotional turmoil of that experience changed the course of my life forever.
The implications of allowing marriage at such a young age are significant and deeply troubling. Many 16 year olds lack the maturity to grasp the full weight of this commitment. They are still developing their identities and often do not possess the emotional resilience to handle the challenges that accompany marriage. More alarmingly, the legal allowance for young marriage creates an environment where vulnerable children can be easily manipulated or coerced into relationships.
In my experience, it’s much harder to force an adult into a situation like this; a child is much easier to blackmail and manipulate. They may be pressured by family expectations, societal norms, or even threats from peers. From my own experience I know how easily a young individual can feel trapped, believing they must acquiesce to the demands imposed on them. This coercion can lead to relationships that compromise their safety and autonomy, perpetuating cycles of abuse and dependency.
In Scotland, the Marriages (Scotland) Act 1977 permits anyone aged 16 and over to marry, creating a loophole that leaves young people vulnerable. Advocates for reform are calling for a minimum marriage age of 18, aligning with the UN’s position to protect our youth. We must prioritise the well-being of children and empower them to pursue their education and personal development before they face such life-altering decisions.
As a survivor, I urge politicians to reconsider the implications of allowing marriage at such a young age. No child should have their future compromised by an institution they are not ready for. It’s time for change, for reform, and for a future where young people can thrive without the shadow of child marriage looming over them.