Early Marriages and Poverty

In many African countries it is not unheard of for girls between the ages of 12 and 15 years to be given into marriages by their parents. A recent high profile case in Nigeria is only one example. Even though such marriages are usually attributed to custom, poverty has a crucial part to play in it. Given the importance that the education of girls holds, such early marriages should be discouraged not only by law but also by improving economies so that parents may have the ability to help their children stay in school. Watch this NYT video.