Publications - Released in 2016
Programs that elevate girls’ visibility and status in their families and communities, and build their skills and knowledge, have been shown to delay marriage in different parts of the world. However, in Bangladesh, where efforts to prevent child marriage have focused on the enforcement of laws and policies, little research exists on what approaches work best to delay marriage and why.
New research from Population Council shows that its Balika programme has significantly delayed child marriage and produced better health, educational and social outcomes for girls.
Girls who attended Balika’s weekly sessions were one third less likely to be married as children.The programme provides girls with education and skills for modern livelihoods as well as engaging their communities.