The Social and Cultural Affairs Committee of the National Council recommends more advocacy efforts to combat rising number of teenage pregnancy and sexual abuse.
The committee’s report said 3,362 girls below the age of 16 gave birth, according to the National Statistic Bureau Report, 2015.
Since abortion is illegal, the committee members said, many go across the border to avail the facilities which have proven to be unsafe.
According to the health ministry, over 1,550 abortion cases, including premature deaths and miscarriages, were reported, last year.
“There should be enough awareness, especially in rural areas,” Samtse’s NC MP, Sangay Khandu said.
Paro’s Representative, Kaka Tshering said creating awareness is important, especially at the school, gewog, community, and dzongkhag levels.
“But, more importantly, parents should create awareness among their children.”
A Civil Society Organisation, RENEW, which provides assistance to victims of gender-based violence, reported many clients seeking assistance with cases of teenage pregnancy and sexual harassment.
RENEW reported over 260 registered cases of teenage pregnancy since 2009.
Sarpang’s NC MP, Dhan Bahadur Monger said factors such as rural location, disadvantaged backgrounds, and lower educational qualifications are the reasons for early teenage pregnancies in the country.
Others include lack of knowledge on sexual education, lack of parental guidance, substance abuse, and sexual exploitation.
The Upper House will discuss the recommendations again.
