National Council for Childhood Thwarts Child Marriage Attempts in Fayoum and Dakahlia

The National Council for Childhood and Motherhood has successfully intervened to prevent two child marriages involving girls under the legal age in the Fayoum and Dakahlia governorates. This action is part of the council’s ongoing efforts to protect children, particularly girls, from various forms of abuse and exploitation, responding promptly to reports received through the Child Helpline at 16000.

Dr. Sahar El-Sanbaty, head of the National Council for Childhood and Motherhood, explained that the first case involved a 15-year-old girl from Fayoum, whose father attempted to marry her off informally against her will. The second case concerned a 16-year-old girl from Belqas in Dakahlia, whose father arranged an engagement and drafted an informal marriage contract for her. Both weddings were scheduled for Friday, June 5, representing a blatant violation of their rights and endangering their futures and well-being.

Upon receiving the reports, coordination was established with relevant authorities and child protection units in both governorates to verify the incidents. Investigations confirmed the accuracy of the information provided. Consequently, the Child Protection Office and the Office of Persons with Disabilities and Seniors at the Public Prosecutor’s Office were notified to take necessary legal action.

Dr. Sahar El-Sanbaty emphasized that child marriage, particularly for girls, constitutes a crime and a severe violation of children’s rights due to its negative health, psychological, and social repercussions. It also deprives children of their right to education and safe development. She reiterated the council’s commitment to combating this phenomenon and implementing all necessary measures to protect children from its dangers.

Dr. Wael Abdel Razek, Secretary-General of the National Council for Childhood and Motherhood, stated that all legal measures regarding these cases have been initiated. This includes obtaining legal commitments from both families not to proceed with any marriage arrangements before the girls reach legal age while ensuring their proper care and monitoring through specialized child protection units.

Sabri Osman, Director of the General Administration for Child Helpline Services, pointed out that child marriage is among the most serious forms of violations faced by children. It explicitly contravenes Article 80 of the Egyptian Constitution as well as Article 96 of Law No. 12 of 1996 on Child Rights, which criminalizes endangering a child.

The National Council for Childhood and Motherhood urges citizens to report any similar cases promptly via the Child Helpline at “16000,” which operates around the clock or through WhatsApp at “01102121600.” The council appreciates the constructive cooperation with public prosecutors, child protection units at both local and national levels, and all partner organizations dedicated to safeguarding vulnerable children and ensuring they receive their full rights.