Underage Marriages and Miscarriages Persist in Malta Despite UN Recommendations

Malta has seen 13 minors married over the past decade, according to figures provided by the Home Affairs Minister. While Maltese law allows 16 or 17-year-olds to marry with parental consent or court authorization, the United Nations has recommended banning marriage for anyone under 18.

The data also reveals that between 2013 and October 2023, 31 underage girls suffered miscarriages at Mater Dei Hospital, with the highest number (6) occurring in 2016. In 2021, there were 4,477 births, 221 miscarriages, and 13 stillbirths in Malta.

Why this matters: The persistence of underage marriages and miscarriages among minors in Malta raises concerns about the well-being and rights of young girls in the country. The United Nations' recommendation to ban marriage for those under 18 highlights the international community's stance on protecting children from the potential risks associated with early marriage.

Despite the UN's recommendation, Malta continues to allow 16 and 17-year-olds to marry under certain circumstances. The occurrence of miscarriages among underage girls at Mater Dei Hospital further highlights the need for increased attention to the health and welfare of young women in Malta.

In the country's ongoing efforts to address these issues, it remains to be seen whether Malta will take steps to align its laws with the UN's recommendations and address the root causes of underage marriages and miscarriages among minors. The Home Affairs Minister's release of these figures brings the matter to the forefront, encouraging public discourse and potential policy changes to protect the rights and well-being of young girls in Malta.

Key Takeaways

• 13 minors married in Malta over the past decade
• 31 underage girls suffered miscarriages at Mater Dei Hospital
• UN recommends banning marriage for anyone under 18
• Malta allows 16-17-year-olds to marry with consent
• Concerns raised about well-being and rights of young girls