UN General Assembly Declares November 27 as Day Against Child Marriage

The United Nations General Assembly has officially recognized November 27 as the International Day for the Elimination of Child, Early and Forced Marriage. This resolution, co-sponsored by India and spearheaded by Sierra Leone, was adopted unanimously on September 4, 2026.

The resolution aligns with India’s ongoing campaign, Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat, which aims to eradicate child marriage in the country by 2030. Launched on November 27, 2024, the initiative seeks to decrease the prevalence of child marriage by 10% by 2026. The collaborative international effort to establish a global day dedicated to this cause was supported by various leaders including Sierra Leone’s First Lady, Fatima Maada Bio, and Bhuwan Ribhu, founder of Just Rights for Children.

In a statement post-adoption, Ribhu emphasized the need for immediate action, stating, “Now is the time to act. From 27th November, the action begins.” He called for global accountability urging governments, civil society, and communities to work together against child marriage. The resolution encourages member states to invest in education for girls and develop comprehensive strategies to combat this harmful practice, which disproportionately affects women and girls while violating their human rights.

Source: www.thehindu.com