The plight of the Rohingya refugees, particularly in the sprawling camps of Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh, has brought global attention to various humanitarian crises, one of the most pressing being child marriage. This practice in Rohingya camps is a complex issue rooted in cultural, economic, and social factors. Its consequences are far-reaching, affecting the health, education, and overall well-being of young girls. Addressing this issue requires a multi-faceted approach that includes community engagement, education, economic support, and robust legal frameworks. By tackling the root causes and providing sustainable solutions, it is possible to protect the rights and futures of Rohingya girls and break the cycle of child marriage.
Child marriage remains a significant social issue in the refugee camps of Bangladesh, fueled by displacement, poverty, and scarce resources. Over a million displaced individuals, including many children and teenagers, have been living in the camps in Cox's Bazar since the mass exodus of Rohingya refugees from Myanmar began in 2017.
Lots of issue triggered this practice to exercise in Rohingya Camp. In Rohingya society, like many others, marriage is often seen as a rite of passage and a means to secure the future of girls. Traditional beliefs and customs heavily influence the practice of child marriage, where girls are married off at a young age as part of longstanding cultural practices. The dire economic conditions in the refugee camps exacerbate the prevalence of child marriage. Families, struggling to meet basic needs, may marry off their daughters to reduce the financial burden and secure dowry payments or economic stability through marital alliances. In addition, limited access to education and awareness about the rights of girls and the adverse effects of child marriage contributes to its persistence.
Child Marriage results young girls to heightened health risks, including complications during pregnancy and childbirth, which are leading causes of death among adolescent girls. The physical immaturity of young brides exacerbates these health challenges, leading to higher rates of maternal and infant mortality. Early marriage typically ends a girl's education, limiting her future opportunities for personal development and economic independence. The lack of education perpetuates the cycle of poverty and disempowerment. Psychologically impact of child marriage is profound, leading to trauma, depression, and a sense of helplessness. Young brides often face domestic violence, abuse, and lack of agency in their marital homes, which affects their mental well-being.
Addressing child marriage in Rohingya camps requires a comprehensive approach that tackles the underlying causes and provides support for affected girls and their families. Providing accessible and quality education for girls in the camps is crucial. Education empowers girls, giving them knowledge and skills to resist early marriage. Engaging with community leaders and members to shift cultural attitudes towards child marriage is essential.
Programs that involve community dialogue and education can help change perceptions. Enhancing the enforcement of laws against child marriage and ensuring that violators are held accountable can help deter the practice. Offering financial assistance and livelihood programs to families can alleviate the economic pressures that lead to child marriage.
Finally, collaborating with international organizations, humanitarian organizations, government agencies, and local NGOs to coordinate efforts, share resources, and implement comprehensive strategies to address child marriage effectively is crying need to stop early marriage in Rohingya camps.
Writer: Dr. A. T. M. Mahbub-Ul Karim Project Director Emergency Multi-Sector Rohingya Crisis Response (EMRCR) Project
Ministry of Disaster Management & Relief
