Ukrainian Parliament Considers Lowering Marriage Age to 14, Psychologist Warns of Dangers.

Debating a Controversial Legislative Proposal

According to TSN.ua: A draft law under discussion in Ukraine proposes allowing marriage from the age of 14 under specific conditions. This initiative, which originated from the leadership of the Verkhovna Rada (Ukraine's parliament), has sparked significant public criticism. The proposed amendments to the Civil Code are seen as a test of public reaction to this highly sensitive topic.

Family psychologist Larisa Shklovtsova commented on the proposal, noting that it currently appears to be an attempt to gauge societal response. She emphasized that a 14-year-old remains a child. According to her, this is a crucial developmental period impacting motivation and self-awareness. Shklovtsova also highlighted the significant risks associated with entering into marriage at such a young age.

Key Risks of Early Marriage

The psychologist outlined several primary concerns, including:

• The potential for early pregnancy.

Larisa Shklovtsova stressed that a 14-year-old girl is a child, and if she becomes pregnant, she could become a mother at an even younger age. This raises serious questions about the responsibility and readiness of adolescents for such life-altering changes. This debate occurs in a country where the legal age of marriage is typically 18, with exceptions currently requiring court approval.

Consequently, the legislative initiative to permit marriage from age 14 has ignited debate not only on legal grounds but also from a psychological perspective. Questions regarding the social unpreparedness of teenagers for marriage and the potential consequences of such decisions remain pressing and require thorough analysis.

The proposed legal changes could mark a significant step in shaping Ukraine's marriage laws. However, given the concerns raised by experts, it is crucial to carefully examine the social implications of this initiative. Public discussion and expert involvement in the process are essential to finding balanced solutions that consider the needs of youth and the country's social realities.