This table provides metadata for the actual indicator available from Ghana statistics closest to the corresponding global SDG indicator. Please note that even when the global SDG indicator is fully available from Ghana statistics, this table should be consulted for information on national methodology and other Ghana-specific metadata information.
| Goal |
Goal 5: Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls |
|---|---|
| Target |
Target 5.3: Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child, early and forced marriage and female genital mutilation |
| Indicator |
Indicator 5.3.1: Proportion of women aged 20-24 years who were married or in a union before age 15 and age 18 |
| Series |
Proportion of women aged 20-24 years who were married or in a union before age 15 [5.3.1] Proportion of women aged 20-24 years who were married or in union before age 18 [5.3.1] |
| Definition and concepts |
Concepts: Both formal (i.e., marriages) and informal unions are covered under this indicator. Informal unions are generally defined as those in which a couple lives together for some time, intends to have a lasting relationship, but for which there has been no formal civil or religious ceremony (i.e., cohabitation). |
| Unit of measure |
Percentage (%) |
| Data sources |
Ghana Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS), 2011 and 2018 |
| Data providers |
Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) |
| Rationale |
Marriage before the age of 18 is a fundamental violation of human rights. Child marriage often compromises a girl’s development by resulting in early pregnancy and social isolation, interrupting her schooling, limiting her opportunities for career and vocational advancement and placing her at increased risk of intimate partner violence. The practice of early/child marriage is a direct manifestation of gender inequality. |
| Method of computation |
Number of women aged 20-24 who were first married or in union before age 15 (or before age 18) divided by the total number of women aged 20-24 in the population multiplied by 100. |
| Metadata last updated | Nov 12, 2022 |