History is Made Today: Colombia Passes Landmark Bill to Eradicate Child Marriage

 

A 17-Year Fight Against an Entrenched Tradition

After nearly two decades of tireless campaigning by human rights groups, Colombia has finally taken a monumental step forward by outlawing child marriage. This historic move follows 17 years of lobbying and advocacy, during which rights groups faced eight failed attempts to pass legislation through the House and Senate. On November 13, after five hours of intense debate, the bill to prohibit marriage under the age of 18 was finally approved, marking a watershed moment for the nation. The victory underscores the unyielding commitment of activists to protect Colombia’s youth from harmful practices rooted in outdated traditions.

Ending a 137-Year Loophole in Colombia’s Civil Code

This groundbreaking legislation brings an end to a 137-year-old legal loophole that allowed children under 18 to marry with parental consent. The outdated law had been a glaring violation of human rights, enabling the perpetuation of harmful practices under the guise of cultural norms. Rights groups estimate that 4.5 million girls in Colombia — one in four — are married before reaching adulthood. The new legislation eliminates this loophole, aligning Colombia with global efforts to uphold the rights and dignity of children.

Jennifer Pedraza: A Voice for Colombia’s Children

Jennifer Pedraza, co-author of the bill, hailed the decision as a historic achievement. She described it as a significant milestone in respecting the rights of boys and girls in Colombia. Pedraza’s unwavering advocacy reflects a broader societal shift toward prioritizing children’s welfare over long-held traditions. By banning child marriage, Colombia joins a growing list of countries in the region, becoming the 12th to enact comprehensive legislation against the practice. Pedraza emphasized that this sends a powerful message about Colombia’s commitment to human rights.

The Controversies and Opposition Behind the Debate

The road to this landmark decision was anything but smooth. The proposed legislation faced significant opposition from various quarters, including advocates of parental rights and representatives of Colombia’s more than 100 Indigenous communities. Critics argued that the law infringed on cultural traditions and family autonomy. However, the staggering evidence linking child marriage to poverty, early pregnancy, and domestic violence ultimately outweighed these arguments. Studies reveal that child marriage often traps young girls in oppressive relationships, with devastating consequences for their education and overall well-being.

The Harsh Realities of Child Marriage in Colombia

Child marriage is not just a legal issue but a deeply entrenched social problem. In Colombia, the practice is closely tied to cycles of poverty and gender inequality. Girls forced into marriage at a young age are more likely to experience early pregnancies, face higher risks of maternal mortality, drop out of school, and endure domestic abuse. These grim statistics underscore why this legislation is so critical. By addressing the root causes of child marriage, Colombia is taking an important step toward breaking these cycles and creating a safer, more equitable society.

A New Era of Protection for Colombia’s Youth

The passage of this bill is a monumental leap forward for children’s rights in Colombia. By outlawing child marriage, the country is setting a powerful precedent for other nations grappling with similar issues. The legislation not only protects young girls but also sends a clear message about the nation’s priorities. Colombia is turning a new page, one that values the rights, safety, and future of its children above outdated traditions. As Jennifer Pedraza aptly put it, this moment is a triumph for respect, equality, and the protection of human dignity.