The UNFPA-UNICEF Global Programme to End Child Marriage (2016-2030) contributes to Sustainable Development Goal 5.3, which aims to eliminate all harmful practices, including child marriage. The COVID-19 pandemic hit at the very beginning of Phase II (2020-2023) of the Global Programme and profoundly affected the everyday lives of girls. It is estimated that by 2030 there may be an additional 10 million child brides due to pandemic induced poverty and economic insecurity, interruptions in prevention and protection services and school closures.

To further refine the Global Programme’s ability to deliver in changing contexts, the Evaluation Offices of UNFPA and UNICEF conducted a joint assessment of the Global Programme adaptations to the COVID-19 crisis in 2021. 

The results of the assessment indicate that the Global Programme should retain the focus and efforts to reach the most vulnerable and marginalized adolescents, ensuring their access to education, health and social welfare services. It is also critical to overcome the drivers of poverty by leveraging existing social protection schemes. Evidence must be used to inform programming, as well as to advocate with governments to keep child marriage prevention and response on the national agendas. In addition, continue to develop legal and operational frameworks that can accelerate the end of child marriage.

These lessons will accelerate the pace of the Global Programme, and in turn support the realization of the UNFPA strategic plan, 2022-2025, towards the delivery of the Sustainable Development Goals.