The National Council for Childhood and Motherhood, in coordination with Egyptian security forces, successfully intervened on Monday to stop the illegal, underage marriages of two young girls in separate incidents across Fayoum and Assiut. Legal actions are currently underway against the family members and individuals involved in orchestrating the illegal unions.
The first incident occurred in the Itsa center of Fayoum, where a father attempted to force his 14-year-old daughter into a customary marriage (Zwag Urfi) with her cousin against her explicit will. The second case involved a 15-year-old girl in the Al-Badari center of Assiut, where her father drew up a customary marriage contract to wed her off without her consent.
Upon receiving verified information about both arrangements, the National Council immediately reported the details to the Child Protection Office under the Attorney General. Dr. Sahar El-Sonbati, President of the National Council for Childhood and Motherhood, reiterated that child marriage is a severe violation that strips young girls of their fundamental rights to education and safety, causing deep physical and psychological harm.
The authorities compelled both families to sign legally binding pledges, ensuring they will not attempt to marry off the girls before they reach the legal age of 18, while also guaranteeing proper care and supervision. Sabry Osman, Director of the Child Helpline, emphasized that these actions directly violate Article 80 of the Egyptian Constitution and the Child Law, which criminalizes putting minors at risk.
