Child marriage remains a significant challenge in Nepal, impacting the lives of tens of thousands of young girls. While its prevalence has dropped from a staggering 60 per cent in 2006 to about 35 per cent in 2022, one in three girls is still married off before turning 18.

Economic hardship, lack of access to education, cultural norms and gender inequality continue to drive the practice, with devastating consequences for young girls. Boys are also affected, with one in 10 forced into early marriage.

UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has been working alongside the Government and partners in Nepal to combat the scourge. UN News’ Vibhu Mishra spoke to UNICEF Representative in Nepal, Alice Akunga.