Faith
Pakistan Bill Seeks to Shield Girls from Forced Marriage
A critical committee in Pakistan’s Punjab Province has approved legislation designed to protect young Christian and minority girls from forced conversions and illegal underage marriages. The Punjab Child Marriage Restraint Bill 2026 seeks to raise the minimum legal age for marriage to 18 for both males and females.
This values-driven reform aims to replace outdated laws that left young girls vulnerable to exploitation and abuse. By establishing stricter legal protections, the province takes a necessary step toward upholding the dignity of children and defending the rights of religious minorities.
Faith Facts
- Pakistan ranks eighth on the 2026 World Watch List of countries where it is most difficult to follow Christ.
- The proposed law classifies child marriage as a non-bailable offense, carrying penalties of up to seven years in prison.
- Christian advocacy groups have long sought these reforms to prevent the forced marriage and trafficking of adolescent girls.
“Poor parents often marry their daughters early due to lack of resources and concerns about their safety,”
said Committee Chairperson Pir Ashraf Rasool, who opposes the bill.
Advocates argue that firm age requirements are essential to preventing judicial loopholes that have historically been used to target Christian families.
We must continue to pray for the safety of our brothers and sisters in Christ who face persecution for their faith and the protection of their children from harm.