Estimating the cost of child marriage in the Arab region

Child marriage is a human rights violation and a development challenge that impedes progress towards the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The elimination of this practice is at the heart of concerted efforts by ESCWA, UNICEF, UNFPA, and UN Women, who are jointly committed to tackling this issue. They have spearheaded a series of studies examining the economic repercussions of child marriage in the Arab region. The initial study, "Estimating the cost of child marriage in the Arab region: Background paper on the feasibility of undertaking a costing study," sheds light on the severe consequences of this practice. It offers insights into the extent, causes, and impacts of child marriage in the region and emphasizes the importance of quantifying its economic costs. This paper underscores the urgency of eradicating child marriage to promote gender equality, empower women, and improve maternal and child health.

The second study in the series entitled “The cost of child marriage over the life cycle of girls and women: Evidence from Egypt, Iraq, Jordan and Tunisia” delves into the life-cycle costs associated with child marriage, assessing its effects across different stages of a woman’s life. Focused on Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, and Tunisia, the study reveals the far-reaching and profound effects on women’s health, education, and economic status, thereby enriching our understanding of the long-term strain caused by this harmful practice. This piece of research not only quantifies the costs of child marriage on human development but also provides a roadmap for its economic evaluation.

The third and latest study, “Estimating the economic costs of child marriage in the Arab region," expands on previous findings by conducting a more detailed demographic, health and economic analysis. This comprehensive report highlights the significant impact of child marriage on the region's economy, estimating a potential increase of about 3 percent per annum to the Arab region's economy, amounting to approximately $3 trillion (US dollars) between 2021 and 2050 if child marriage is eliminated. The failure to address this issue, on the other hand, would lead to substantial economic challenges.

Together, these studies present a compelling narrative about the extensive and varied economic implications of child marriage in the Arab region. Each successive study contributes to a deeper understanding of this critical issue, advocating for thorough and effective policy interventions to combat this pressing social problem. These reports collectively underscore the necessity for comprehensive action, including improvements in family planning, healthcare, education, and labor market opportunities for women, to prevent child marriage and mitigate its detrimental economic impacts in the region.

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