This National Helpline Can Save Children From Marriage in Bangladesh

Children at risk of being forced into marriage can dial 333. An operator takes their details then alerts authorities to step in and prevent the marriage. Since 2008, the 333 helpline has stopped 7,000 child marriages, empowering thousands of girls to fulfil their potential. The helpline is open 24 hours a day. 333 can also be used to report sexual harassment or to ask for advice on government services and natural disasters. Bangladesh has the third-highest prevalence of child marriages on the planet 22% of girls are married by the age of 15. UNICEF defines ‘child marriage’ as any union before the age of 18. Girls who marry before 18 are more likely to experience domestic violence and less likely to remain in school.