‘I am still a child, it cannot be good to be married’: how drought forces Afghan families to sell girls as brides
As climate breakdown pushes families to starvation, many feel forced to ‘sacrifice’ daughters to save siblings. Photographer Elise Blanchard travelled the country speaking to girls as young as eight, 10 and 14 who have been engaged or married to repay debts or pay for food
TL;DR
- Climate breakdown is forcing families in Afghanistan into extreme situations, including marrying off young daughters.
- These marriages are often a means to repay debts or provide food for other siblings.
- Photographer Elise Blanchard spoke with girls as young as eight, 10, and 14 who have been subjected to this practice.
- The situation underscores the severe humanitarian crisis exacerbated by environmental factors.