VIENTIANE, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- The Lao government has committed to ending child, early, and forced marriages, as well as improving access to sexual and reproductive health services in the country, according to a research report released Thursday.

The research report on child marriage and sexual and reproductive health services was released at a meeting attended by representatives from the National Commission for the Advancement of Women, Mothers, and Children (NCAWMC), along with development partners.

The report revealed that, in 2017, 33 percent of women aged 20 to 24 reported being married before the age of 18, Lao National Radio reported on Thursday.

The report noted that marriage and childbearing during adolescence can severely harm a girl's physical and mental health, education, and life opportunities. Early marriage often leads to adolescent pregnancies, increasing maternal mortality risks and health complications for both mothers and babies.

These practices keep people in poverty, reinforce gender inequality, and prevent social and economic development, it pointed out.

Additionally, the report outlined strategies to combat child, early, and forced marriages (CEFM), including enhancing education, improving access to sexual and reproductive health services, strengthening legislation, and engaging communities.

As Laos undergoes demographic shifts, addressing CEFM is critical to unlocking the country's economic potential and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

The research aims to provide a roadmap for policymakers, communities, and stakeholders to work together toward a future where every child can realize their full potential. Enditem

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