Four Things That Stop Young Girls from Dreaming—And How We Can Change That

By: Bridget Hadfield

Every child has hopes and dreams for the future. But for many children around the world—and particularly for girls—those dreams are often cut short by barriers such as poverty, early marriage, lack of education and inadequate sanitation. 

This International Women’s Day, we can shine a light on four challenges that stop young girls from dreaming.  

Poverty: When Survival Comes Before School 

Many families living in poverty face the harsh choice between providing basic needs and sending their children to school. Education is often seen as a luxury, especially for girls. However, education is a powerful tool to break the cycle of poverty, enabling girls to earn a stable income, avoid early marriage and create a future with choices. 

Early Marriage: When Childhood is Cut Short 

Despite being illegal in most countries, about 12 million girls marry before age 18 (UNICEF). In countries like Bangladesh, over half of girls are married before adulthood, causing many to drop out of school. Each additional year of education significantly reduces the risk of early marriage. 

Period Poverty: When a Lack of Toilets Means Missing School

Without proper toilets and period products, many girls miss school or drop out because managing their period at school is simply too difficult. Access to clean water, safe toilets and period products can transform their ability to stay in school and pursue their dreams. 

Some girls only see their first proper toilet after joining community programs such as Compassion’s child development program. That’s why Compassion Australia is actively building toilets for girls in Sri Lanka, ensuring they can manage their periods with dignity.   

Gender-Based Violence: When Safety is a Concern 

Many girls face the threat of gender-based violence, which can limit their freedom and opportunities. In many countries, cultural norms and practices perpetuate violence against girls, creating danger for them when attending school or participating in community activities. Empowering girls with knowledge, providing safe spaces and advocating for their rights are crucial steps to combat this issue.

By addressing these barriers, we can help young girls reclaim their dreams and build brighter futures. Every girl deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and pursue her aspirations without fear or limitation. This International Women’s Day, let’s commit to taking action, whether through advocacy, education, or supporting organisations like Compassion Australia that are making a tangible difference. Together, we can create a world where every girl is empowered to dream boldly and achieve her full potential.

Article supplied with thanks to Compassion Australia.

Feature image: Image supplied by Compassion and used with permission.