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Baird Co-Hosts Signature Event at UN on Early and Forced Marriage

September 25, 2013 - Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird today co-hosted a signature event on child, early and forced marriage during the 68th Session of the United Nations General Assembly.

Ending the practice of child, early and forced marriage is a priority for Canada.

“Child, early and forced marriage is an appalling violation of human rights,” said Baird, “because it robs girls of their right to education and jeopardizes their health.”

Child, early and forced marriage is perpetuated by poverty and gender discrimination. Globally, between 2004 and 2014, 100 million girls were forced to marry or are expected to be forced to marry before their 18th birthday.

“We have committed to intensifying our diplomacy and development work to end child, early and forced marriage in every corner of the world,” said Baird.

Canada is working with the international community on this issue at all levels—from leadership at the United Nations on a brand new resolution highlighting this issue to partnerships with national governments.

Canada has committed nearly $3 billion over five years to help women and children lead longer, healthier lives. That is in addition to the almost $14 million in support the country has provided toward ending sexual violence and encouraging the full participation of women in emerging democracies.

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