Age & Marriage

Why do child-marriage figures change with the age group and survey year?

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Answer

Direct answer

The standard prevalence indicator usually asks what share of women aged 20–24 married before age 18. That cohort has completed exposure to the threshold, while a group of current girls under 18 has not. The survey year identifies when the experience was measured and allows trends to be compared consistently. Omitting either detail can make an older cohort estimate appear current or confuse historical prevalence with the number of children presently married.

Evidence

Sources used

International Organization · 2022

Statistical Profile on Child Marriage: Pakistan

UNICEF Data

UNICEF profile derived mainly from DHS 2017–18, including prevalence, burden and interpretation notes.View source
International Organization · 2026

Women first married by age 18: Pakistan

World Bank Data

World Bank indicator page sourcing the Pakistan series from UNICEF and DHS APIs.View source
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