Published online by Cambridge University Press: 27 September 2011
In the past 20 years at least 54 countries have passed legislation setting or raising the minimum age at marriage. How successful this legislation will be is questionable, especially when it runs counter to prevailing social and cultural institutions and beliefs, but it does reflect the growing international concern with delaying marriage. The deleterious consequences of early marriage are most evident in high birth rates and low status of women, both of which prevent poor countries from developing. Concern for postponing marriage has evolved from the larger objectives of stemming population growth and of guaranteeing women their basic rights. To raise the standard of health and education of the mother thus improves the welfare of the family.