The Growing Concern of Child Marriage in Solomon Islands

The Solomon Islands, an island nation in the Pacific, is facing a growing concern that has far-reaching implications for its children and society as a whole: child marriage. According to recent reports, around six percent of girls are married before the age of 15, while one in five girls is married before the age of 18. This alarming trend is being reviewed by the Solomon Islands Law Reform Commission, which is assessing whether the current marriage age needs to be raised from 15 to 18 years.

The Situation on the Ground

In rural areas, the situation is even more dire, with one in four girls married before the age of 18. This practice not only puts these young girls at risk of domestic violence, exploitation, and early death but also denies them access to education and economic opportunities that could improve their lifetime prospects.

Save the Children’s Report

A report led by a coalition of charities in Solomon Islands, titled “Solomon Islands Endim Vaelens Agenstims Pikinini” (meaning “Our Voices Against Child Marriage”), found that children, young people, and adults interviewed during the research period believed that raising the marriage age would be beneficial for society as a whole. According to Jacqui Southey, Save the Children’s advocacy and research director, “There was consensus between children and adults, parents and community members that children’s experiences should be playing with their friends, being at school, learning skills.”

Expert Opinion

Rebekah Armstrong, World Vision’s head of advocacy and justice, echoed Southey’s sentiments, stating that the Solomon Islands government should heed the strong community support for a law change. “We strongly urge Solomon Islands Government to listen to the voices of their people and take decisive action to protect and advocate for the best interests of children,” she said.

The Campaigner

Destiny, a 17-year-old campaigner to increase the marriage age from 15 to 18 in Solomon Islands, shared her personal experience. “At 15, most are still in a stage of personal development,” she said. “In my community, some girls under 18 had been married. What I see is just that’s a hard life, like when it comes to marriage, because marriage is a commitment.”

Raising the Age

Destiny believes that raising the age of marriage will ensure that individuals have completed at least a basic level of education and have had time to develop emotionally and mentally. By doing so, Solomon Islands can create a society where children are protected from early marriage and its harmful consequences.

Conclusion

The issue of child marriage in Solomon Islands is a pressing concern that requires immediate attention. The Solomon Islands Law Reform Commission’s review of the current marriage age offers an opportunity to address this issue and create a more just and equitable society for all children. With the strong support of community members, organizations like Save the Children, and young campaigner Destiny, it is hoped that the Solomon Islands government will take decisive action to protect the rights and well-being of its children.