Fines, Work Colonies: 'Having a Child at 14 is a Bad Thing' – Nazaryan

During a session of the National Assembly's Permanent Commission on Legal Issues, a bill proposed by Yazidi community representative Rustam Bakoyan is being discussed, which suggests raising the legal marriage age by 1-2 years. Current legislation sets the marriageable age at 18, but there are exceptions allowing marriage at 17 or even 16. The proposal aims to eliminate these exceptions and prevent minors from marrying.

According to Deputy Minister of Justice Armenuhyi Harutyunyan, studies have shown a decrease in early marriages, and consequently, the number of children born within registered marriages has also diminished; however, the issue remains concerning. 'Among children born in 2007, meaning those who are 17 years old, there are 23 births from 23 marriages, and 56 marriages for those aged 18. Additionally, two 16-year-olds have already had children,' stated the Deputy Minister.

She emphasized that the government is in favor of combating early marriages, stating, 'We believe it is necessary to demonstrate the state's attitude towards this issue.'

Opposition MP Gegham Nazaryan expressed at the commission session that while he acknowledges the initiative is good, he will abstain from voting on changes to the family code. He noted, 'If we say, dear compatriots, you can marry and have a child before reaching adulthood without facing issues, we will register your child, and they will stay with you, then I believe it will have no effect.' He warned that some might decide to marry off their 15-year-old daughters without considering the consequences. 'If we do not leave practical consequences for that family, they will continue to marry off their children.'

The opposition MP proposed imposing fines, for instance, a penalty of 5 million drams, to make families realize the seriousness of the situation. 'They ask who we should fine. We will fine the parents of the child. Whoever wants can pay the fine; if they don’t, they should go to a work colony to understand that having a child at 14 is a bad thing.'