Progress toward gender equality remains insufficient. According to data from the Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS 2025), published by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) on the occasion of the International Day of the Girl on October 10, many indicators concerning women and girls are not advancing, and some are even regressing. Early marriage, for example, continues to rise.
The proportion of young women aged 20 to 24 who were married before the age of 18 increased from 40% in 2018 to 42% in 2025. Violence remains largely silent: 20% of adolescent girls have experienced physical or sexual violence, but only 25% of them seek help, and 60% do not speak to anyone about it.
The challenges persist into adulthood. Among women who have lived with a partner, 34% have experienced some form of domestic violence. “We call on governments, donors, civil society organizations, communities, families, and individuals to invest in proven solutions: keeping girls in school, expanding access to health and protection services, and supporting girls’ leadership for greater empowerment,” stated the UNICEF press release on the occasion of this event.
By Miangaly Ralitera
Captured & Published at: 2026-10-12 06:38:36 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/10/assistance-les-jeunes-filles-vivent.html