Child marriage and pregnancy in Roma communities

Question for written answer E-002038/2025 to the Commission Rule 144 Eleonora Meleti (PPE) Subject: Child marriage and pregnancy in Roma communities The issue of early marriage and early motherhood in Roma communities remains a sad reality. 46 % of Roma women marry before the age of 18, while one in three becomes pregnant during adolescence. These practices violate the rights of women and children, exposing them to increased risks to their health and future well-being. Furthermore, they are not in line with the EU’s social principles and values, and undermine children’s innocence, personal development and free life choices. Imposing adult responsibilities on children often leads to psychological trauma, social exclusion and the perpetuation of poverty and inequality. The EU Roma strategic framework is a good first step, but it does not address the issue. Given that the EU condemns child marriage practices in non-EU countries as part of its foreign policy, it must also take action to combat this dangerous phenomenon in its Member States. In view of the above: 1. What measures does the Commission intend to put in place to eliminate early marriages and pregnancies? 2. Does the Commission intend to enhance funding for targeted information and integration programmes for Roma communities? Submitted: 21.5.2025 PE774.190v01-00