Economic impacts of child marriage: preliminary findings from analyses of existing data

Developed by the World Bank and the International Center for Research on Women, this research brief discusses the preliminary findings of the Economic Costs of Child Marriage study. Analysis from existing data suggests that, in addition to the harmful effects on girls’ health, education, rights and well-being, the economic impacts are significant at both the individual and national level.

The study makes a convincing case for donors and finance ministries to invest in child marriage not only as a human right issue but as a strategic investment for economic and human development.