Horizon Season 1990 Episode 18 The Child Mothers

The Horizon season 1990 episode 18 titled 'The Child Mothers' brings to light a highly sensitive topic, one that continues to ravage the lives of millions across developing countries- child marriages. Despite global efforts to abolish this practice, the number of child marriages, especially in underdeveloped regions, continues to increase alarmingly.

In this poignant episode, the viewer is taken on a journey, exploring the realities and consequences of this cruel tradition that disproportionately affects young girls. The episode begins by highlighting the story of 12-year-old Sherry, who was married off to her 40-year-old husband in one of the poorest regions of Africa. Initially, Sherry was enthusiastic about her new life, but soon she came face to face with the harsh reality that would go on to dictate the rest of her life.

The documentary showcases the horrific reality of child marriages and how they cut short the bright futures of young girls like Sherry, who is now a mother of two at just 14 years old. The episode delves deeper into the cultural and societal norms that enable these marriages to take place, revealing the deep-rooted traditions that perpetuates this phenomenon across different geographical locations.

As the documentary progresses, we are exposed to the harrowing effects of child marriage on both the child and their offspring. Many girls are unable to continue with schooling, thus limiting their potential and chances of escaping the poverty cycle. The documentary also raises the issue of the increased risk of maternal and neonatal mortality amongst young, underdeveloped teenagers who have not been equipped to deal with childbirth.

The episode features interviews with a range of experts, including activists and community leaders, who give first-hand accounts of ongoing efforts to eradicate this practice. They observe that changing social norms takes time, and that their focus is on creating awareness and education around the destructive nature of child marriages, particularly the loss of opportunities for the young girls who are victims.

The documentary reveals that, despite a straightforward legal framework that prohibits child marriages, there is still much work to be done in terms of implementation. The experts interviewed also agree that the lack of economic and educational opportunities is a major contributor to the continuation of the practice. With few viable alternatives, many families opt to marry off their daughters in exchange for dowries, presents, or simply as a way of confirming a girl's worth.

One positive development the episode emphasizes is the shift in attitudes towards child marriages in some communities. The documentary highlights an inspiring story of a group of Maasai girls in Kenya who defy cultural expectations to stay in school. They speak out about their experiences, challenging gender norms and advocating for a better future for all girls. The shift in mindset, coupled with regular government checks to enforce the legal ban on child marriages, is slowly but surely making a difference in some cultures that have been entrenched in the tradition for years.

Overall, the episode 'The Child Mothers' is both an educational and emotional experience, highlighting a sensitive topic and the hardships faced by millions of girls worldwide. The Horizon team did a fantastic job of providing a platform to promote discussions and raise awareness about a practice that is often ignored in many communities globally.

It is clear that the issue of child marriages requires a concerted response from individuals, governments, and organizations worldwide. As the episode powerfully illustrated, ensuring access to education and economic opportunities for young girls is crucial to curbing the proliferation of child marriages, and giving girls a chance to become empowered women.