Portugal raises minimum legal age for marriage to 18 years old without exceptions | Girls Not Brides

Portugal has taken a significant step in protecting the rights of adolescent girls and boys by raising the minimum legal age for marriage to 18 years old with no exceptions. Previously, individuals aged 16 and 17 could marry with parental consent. This legislative change aims to eliminate child, early, and forced marriages (CEFM), ensuring that all individuals enter marriage as consenting adults.

The decree, promulgated by President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, amends the Civil Code, the Civil Registry Code, and the Law on the Protection of Children and Young People in Danger. It also includes child, early, or forced marriage in the set of dangerous situations that warrant intervention to promote the rights and protection of children and young people at risk. Read more

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