Child Brides

A few months ago a story of an un-usual divorce emerged from Yemen. A 10-year old girl had been married off to a man in his 30’s. After being raped and beat up by her husband, the little girl took off to the big city and walked into the courthouse. She had seen it on television and knew she could get help there.

She told the judge she wanted a divorce. The judge granted it and the story spread around the world. Her family isn’t happy about her decision and often in these cases the girl is killed by her male relatives for bringing shame to the family. Perhaps the publicity of this case has so far preserved her life.

We are shocked about these stories here in the West, even though similar things happen here also. Western men travel to Southeast Asia to abuse children. What is the difference between a-10-year-old “wife” and a 10-year-old-prostitute? Neither chose their fate. In many cases child prostitutes can be found right here in the “civilized west” also.

And what about 10-year-old western girls who are dressed suggestively in skimpy little clothes? And who start sleeping around when they’re 13? How crazy is this world becoming, where younger and younger children are sexually involved? In the global south this issue arises from poverty and ignorance, but here in the west seems like no one cares.

Read more on BBC News and Time.