Paraguay Chamber of Deputies approves ban on underage marriage

The Paraguayan Chamber of Deputies has granted preliminary approval to a bill that would prohibit marriage for anyone under the age of 18. The proposed legislation seeks to amend Article 17 of the Civil Code to eliminate existing exceptions that allow minors to marry with parental consent, guardian permission, or judicial authorization.

Proponents of the bill, including Deputy Dalia Estigarribia, argue the measure is necessary to close a “back door” that has historically enabled abuse, forced pregnancy, and violence under the guise of marriage. Statistics cited during the debate noted that 16% of Paraguayan adolescents have been in early unions, and over 9,000 girls and adolescents have given birth this year.

The bill stipulates that any marriage processes involving minors must be suspended until both parties reach adulthood. Non-compliance with the new law would be reported to the Public Ministry for investigation. The project now moves to the Senate for further review. While the measure passed through an alliance of opposition and officialist deputies, it faced resistance from some members of the ruling party.