Violence of Narratives: Lived Experiences of Child Wives in Ethiopia

Abstract

In Ethiopia's Amhara Region, the criminalization of child marriages in line with international human rights law has not entirely eradicated the pervasive challenges faced by child wives. Despite these legal strides, child wives continue to endure intersectional violence and rights violations. Patriarchal community practices undermine their comprehension of their plight, relegating their suffering to mere fate or societal obstacles in pursuit of social status through the institution of marriage. This situation is exacerbated for those who experience fistula, as they become ostracized by their communities and families, forced into lives of destitution and isolation. In-depth interviews with former child wives shed light on the heritage of violence, a legacy perpetuated by community narratives and isolation. This research underscores the urgent need to address deeply entrenched societal norms and structures that sustain child marriages, emphasizing the importance of empowering these girls and women to break free from the cycle of violence and secure a brighter, more equitable future.