HPC 2017 Policy Brief: Child Marriage in Jordan

The Higher Population Council (HPC) views child marriage as a violation of fundamental human rights, including education, personal development, informed marital choice, and the ability to build healthy family relationships. It recognizes the harmful impact of this practice on girls’ reproductive health, quality of life, and future opportunities, as well as its broader economic, social, and demographic consequences for Jordan. Based on an HPC study, this policy brief outlines the extent of child marriage, noting that in 2015, two in ten married women in Jordan were married as minors, with even higher rates among Syrian refugees. The trend of child marriage is increasing, particularly among Syrian and, more recently, Jordanian girls. The brief also shows that underage married girls are typically less educated, economically inactive, lack health coverage, and often have partners in unstable employment. It explores the root causes of child marriage—such as poverty, school dropout, social norms, and family pressures—and highlights its negative health, psychological, and social impacts on girls.