Renowned actress and UNICEF ambassador Saba Qamar has launched a new campaign in Pakistan to raise awareness about the dangers of child marriage, as part of an initiative by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).
In a compelling video released on Thursday, Qamar highlighted the severe consequences child marriage has on girls, including risks to their health, loss of education, and restriction of personal freedom. She emphasized that no child should be forced into a life they didn’t choose.
Sharing her experience from Sujawal, Sindh, she spoke of inspiring encounters with young change-makers like 14-year-old Anam Nazir, who has played a key role in stopping child marriages in her area.
Qamar expressed her commitment to the cause, standing in solidarity with children—especially girls—who are affected by this harmful tradition.
Pakistan currently ranks sixth in the world for the highest number of child brides, with around 19 million girls married before turning 18. Nearly half of these girls become pregnant before adulthood, facing serious health risks. Education is also severely impacted, as only 13% of married girls complete secondary school, compared to 44% of those who remain unmarried.
