World Vision believes that every child deserves a hopeful future, free of abuse, violence, child marriage, and other harmful practices.

Child marriage is an issue around the world. It is fueled by gender inequality, poverty, harmful social norms, and it has devastating consequences for the children involved.

Every year, 12 million girls are married before they turn 18 — that’s 22 girls every minute. And this number is rising. Families in extreme poverty are facing increasing economic challenges caused by shocks like extreme weather, crop failure, and inflation … and have few options for survival beyond the bride price they can get for their daughters. While child marriage is more common among girls than boys, it is a violation of rights, regardless of sex.

Through our programs and advocacy work, we help ensure that:

• Girls and boys have the knowledge and freedom to challenge harmful gender norms
• Families and communities are trained and equipped to adopt gender-equitable practices and to oppose child marriage
• Girls have access to quality education and livelihood opportunities
• Robust and well-enforced laws and policies exist, at both national and local levels, to prevent child marriage

Our Big Dream to End Child Marriage approach includes five pillars: behavior change, education access, economic empowerment, reduction of water- and sanitation-related barriers to girls’ education, and strengthening child protection systems.

We also work with faith leaders around the world to recognize and act upon gender injustices in their communities.

World Vision has 75 years of experience working with communities, donors, partners, and governments to create opportunities for better futures for vulnerable children, even in the toughest places. Our expertise in delivering water, sanitation, and hygiene solutions, combined with decades of leadership in gender equality work and a proven track record of helping people lift themselves out of poverty, means that we are uniquely qualified to address the barriers that prevent girls from reaching their full potential.

Thank you for considering joining like-minded people across the country who are answering the call to be the hands and feet of Jesus through this significant kingdom work.