It’s Official: No More Child Marriages Here

Bolivia’s parliament passed a new law banning marriages and civil unions involving those under 18 — a breakthrough for children’s rights that ends a longstanding legal loophole.

“This is a historic moment and an extraordinary achievement for children across Bolivia,” said Marianela Montes de Oca, Country Director of Save the Children Bolivia.

Previously, 16- and 17-year-olds could marry with parental permission. The new legislation removes that exception and criminalises unions with minors. Officials who register such marriages could face up to 4 years in prison. Approximately 3% of girls in Bolivia marry before the age of 15, and 22% before the age of 18. Between 2014 and 2023, over 4,800 marriages involving adolescents aged 16–17 were registered, often with much older partners. This change marks a decisive step toward protecting children’s rights and ensuring girls stay in school, choose their futures, and live free from coercion.