For decades, Bhutan widely practiced 18 as the minimum legal marriage age, yet the Marriage Act of 1980 still allowed girls to marry at 16. This legal contradiction was resolved on June 25, 2025, when a Joint Sitting of Parliament passed the Marriage (Amendment) Bill of 2024, officially setting the minimum marriage age for women at 18. The change aligns national law with existing practices, international obligations, and the protection of children’s rights. Lawmakers cited issues such as denial of legal documents, access to services, and the need to prevent early marriages that often lead to divorce. While some members called for broader reform of outdated marriage laws, many welcomed the clarity this amendment provides. Experts and personal testimonies emphasized that emotional and cognitive maturity develops well into the early twenties, making the higher legal age a step toward better social and legal protection.
Abba Father, bless Bhutan’s leaders with wisdom to create laws that protect the vulnerable and promote justice (The Holy Bible, Micah 6:8).
Lord, guide young people to make life choices rooted in wisdom, patience, and understanding (The Holy Bible, Proverbs 4:7).
News Source: Bhutan Today
Image Source: Canva
