Noticias

Preventing children, early and forced marriage and unions (CEFMU) is, above all, about preventing systemic violence against children and adolescents. No girl should ever be married or placed in a “union”; these practices represent one of the most severe violations of children’s rights.

A study conducted by Save the Children and the Institute for Behavioral Science Research (IICC) of the Universidad Católica Boliviana shows that CEFMU are not isolated cultural expressions, but rather violent responses to forced pregnancies, mechanisms of control over girls’ sexuality, and family arrangements that deepen inequality and put their development—and even their lives—at risk. Their normalization continues to undermine life opportunities, cut short aspirations, and push thousands of girls and adolescents to accept violence as an inevitable part of their lives.

In Bolivia, the data are clear. Between 2014 and 2023, the State recorded 4,804 marriages involving adolescents aged 16–17. The 2024 census identified 1,220 adolescents who were married and 13,368 living in informal unions. The highest prevalence of early unions is found in Santa Cruz (4,047), Cochabamba (3,362), La Paz (2,078), and Beni (1,923). Within these unions, intimate partner violence is present in 43% of cases, and more than one-third of adolescents drop out of school—perpetuating cycles of exclusion and dependency.

In response, Save the Children Bolivia contributed evidence (IICC–UCB) and provided technical leadership in the development of Law 1639, enacted on 24 September 2025, which amends Law No. 603 (Family Code) to explicitly and comprehensively prohibit child marriage and informal unions involving individuals under 18 years of age. This reform removes all previous exceptions, strengthening the protection of children’s rights. Beyond reinforcing the legal framework, it institutionalizes the primary prevention of violence against children, particularly at the intersection with gender-based violence—closing a longstanding legal gap that had enabled forced unions.

As noted by Jimena Tito, Child Protection and Governance Specialist at Save the Children, in an interview with BBC Mundo, this represents a milestone that must reach “every corner of the country,” reflecting sustained efforts by youth movements, civil society organizations, and broader social actors.

Preventing CEFMU is about protecting lives. It requires strengthening comprehensive sexuality education, ensuring school retention, expanding access to sexual and reproductive health services, and guaranteeing accessible justice systems free from re-victimization. It also demands clear institutional messaging of zero tolerance for violence, alongside a collective commitment to ensure that no girl is left behind.