The bill was officially enacted following Colombia’s Constitutional Court ruling C-039 of 2025, which abolished legal exceptions that allowed minors over 14 to marry with parental consent.
This landmark decision raises the minimum age of marriage to 18 with no exceptions.
“This is more than just a legal milestone – it’s a life-changing moment for countless girls across Colombia,” said Ángela Anzola, President of Plan International Colombia. “With this law now in place, we are one step closer to a future where every girl has the opportunity to learn, grow, and achieve her dreams without the burden of forced marriage.”
Child marriage, which has impacted many girls and adolescents in the different territories of Colombia. “This law represents hope and justice for every girl who has been denied her childhood and autonomy,” Ángela added. “But the real work starts now ensuring its implementation and changing the social norms that have sustained this harmful practice for generations.”
While this law is a critical step forward, Plan International emphasises that policy alone is not enough to end child marriage. The organisation calls for continued investment in education, healthcare, and economic opportunities for girls and their families, alongside awareness campaigns to challenge harmful gender norms.
“We must ensure that no girl is left behind. Making this law a reality requires collaboration with leaders, schools, and communities to address the root causes that drive child marriage,” Ángela stated. “This includes ensuring families have the resources they need so that marriage is no longer seen as the only option for girls.”
The enforcement of the law includes the design and implementation of the National Comprehensive Programme for Life Projects for Children and Adolescents, a key initiative aimed at addressing the root causes of early unions, such as poverty and lack of education.
“Our work continues,” Ángela emphasised. “Together with families, communities, and partners, we must ensure this law is not just words on paper but a reality that protects and empowers every girl in Colombia. Only then can we create a future where girls grow up free, equal, and full of promise.” Plan International remains committed to working alongside civil society and government partners to ensure that every girl in Colombia is free to pursue her future, unburdened by the consequences of early marriage.
