Extremist Muslims normalize child marriage

It is unacceptable and deeply reprehensible that extremist sectors — in various parts of the world and under different ideological or religious pretexts — continue to attempt to justify child marriage, including cases in which girls as young as six years old are forced into unions with adults. These practices are a flagrant violation of human rights, constitute child abuse, and must be firmly rejected by every civilized society.

That certain Muslim extremists have historically defended such actions is no secret: human rights organizations, journalists, and survivors have documented these abuses.

Protecting children must take precedence over any cultural, religious, or political considerations. There can be no valid justification for allowing minors to become victims of abuse disguised as tradition. International laws and the fundamental values of human dignity demand a firm stance against such acts, and silence or relativization only strengthens those responsible.