"It's just an engagement": in Egypt, a 12-year-old boy marries an 11-year-old cousin

During the celebration of the gorgeous wedding of the eldest son, Nasser Hassan decided that their family needed another joyful event, and announced that his youngest son Omar would marry his cousin Garam. By the way, at the wedding, which took place 120 kilometers from Cairo, the guests were not at all surprised by this turn. Some even said later that there was nothing inappropriate about it, because it was an engagement, not a marriage.

Omar is 12 years old, and his young bride Garam is 11. Moreover, Egyptian laws prohibit marriage registration for couples under the age of 18. However, according to UNICEF reports, 17% of girls get married before the age of 18, especially the tradition of early marriage is common in rural areas.

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Source: The Washington Post

Photos of the young couple published in local media caused outrage and indignation, especially among defenders of the rights of children and women. Activists reported the incident to the National Center for the Protection of Childhood and Motherhood, and also filed a complaint to the Prosecutor General demanding that parents be held accountable, because this "will only lead to an early marriage in which the girl will be deprived of equal chances to receive education and will be isolated from the social sphere."

Omar's father, faced with such a wave of anger, told local media that he was "a free man and had done nothing wrong." Defending his decision, he said: "Omar has always loved Garam very much, he always said he would marry her when they grow up." Nasser added that the children are reasonable and intelligent beyond their years and they have mutual strong feelings.

That is why Nasser Hassan announced his engagement so soon so that no one else would have time to ask for the girl's hand when she gets older. "They will get married when they reach the legal age."