UNICEF has launched a powerful new video campaign with renowned actress and National Ambassador for Child Rights, Saba Qamar, to raise awareness about child marriage in Pakistan.

In the video, Saba Qamar urges communities to speak out and take action. She talks about the dangers young girls face when forced into marriage including poor health, lack of education, and lost opportunities.

“Why should any child in Pakistan be forced into a marriage they didn’t choose,” she asks in the video. “I met a brave girl named Anam Nazir, only 14, who stopped three child marriages in her area. That’s the kind of change we need.”

Pakistan has the sixth highest number of child brides in the world, with nearly 19 million girls married before turning 18. Most drop out of school, and many face serious health risks from early pregnancy.

Unicef's representative in Pakistan, Abdullah Fadil, said that child marriage often comes from poverty and harmful traditions. “We need stronger laws, more support for girls, and cultural change,” he added. “How can Pakistan move forward when half our children are left behind?”

Unicef praised the recent decision in Islamabad to raise the legal age of marriage to 18 and urged other provinces to do the same. The campaign is part of a larger effort with UN partners to protect children and support youth leaders across the country.

“Saba Qamar is a powerful voice for change,” Fadil said. “Together, we want every child  especially every girl to grow up safe, educated, and free to choose their future.”