A new law in the West African country of Sierra Leone allows child brides to annul their marriages and be financially compensated.

Provisions of New Law to Combat Child Marriage

• Unique Approach: The new legislation goes further than many other similar laws in Africa by penalising people who enable the marriage like the parents, the officiant and even the wedding guests in addition to the husband.
  • Holding the entire community responsible is a unique approach.
• Age Restriction: It prohibits marriage for anyone under 18.
• Punishment: Penalties include both fines and jail terms.
  • Strict penalties include:
    • Up to 15 years imprisonment
    • Fines up to $5000 (significant in local context)

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• Restriction on Cohabitation: It covers cohabitation with minors as well.
• Relief for Victims: Victims have been provided with following provision of:
  • Seeking financial compensation
  • Petition for marriage annulment
• Expected Outcomes: The new law would be helpful in creating a deterrent effect on community and reduced societal pressure.
• Concern Arising: In other countries, criminalising child marriage has driven the practice underground, leading communities to close ranks and girls to have even fewer protections against the practice.
  • It only provides support for victims, not just prevention.
• Action Required: To gain a positive change, it is must to change attitude towards such practices. Following actions are required to combat the challenge of child marriage:
  • An Inclusive Approach: As per researchers and experts, for the law to have any real impact, officials will have to build sustained relationships with communities, especially in the rural areas, where child marriage is more common.
  • Expansion of Welfare Efforts: To address this challenge, addressing poverty is required. There is also a need to expand efforts to educate communities about sexual and reproductive health.

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