Child marriage in Nicaragua: cultural roots And girl centred solutions

This report presents findings from an in depth qualitative study of child marriage in Nicaragua. It highlights that:

• Child marriage is a largely hidden problem in Nicaragua, due to the informal nature of unions and the language that is used to describe child marriage.


• Gender norms are the primary drivers.


• Teenagers have very little knowledge of, or access to contraception, which leads to teenage pregnancy which is also a driver of early marriage.

The report concludes by recommending the provision of safe spaces and comprehensive sexual education for girls, and funding access to contraception.