
A government-backed Iranian matchmaking site facilitates child marriages, challenging international human rights norms.
Story Highlights
- An Iranian platform allows child marriage registration from age 13, bypassing legal safeguards.
- The site supports 70,000 active profiles, raising concerns about child exploitation.
- Iran’s government prioritizes demographic goals over child protection.
Iranian Platform Facilitates Child Marriages
The Iranian matchmaking platform “Adam and Hava” has come under scrutiny for allowing parents to register minors as young as 13 for marriage. Despite claims of legal compliance, the site lacks meaningful age filters or identity verification, enabling the creation of profiles for minors without obstacles. This situation highlights the tension between Iran’s domestic policies and international commitments to child protection.
Iranian Matchmaking Platform Lets Parents Sign Up Girls as Young as 13 for Marriage https://t.co/GuK6246Wrc
— Soph (@sophiatseliem) December 1, 2025
Government Policies Versus Child Protection
In 2021, Iran’s parliament passed a law prioritizing demographic expansion over child protection, paving the way for platforms like Adam and Hava. Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has advocated for higher birth rates, setting a target population of 150 million by 2050. The platform’s existence aligns with these demographic goals, yet it contradicts international standards, sparking concern among child-rights advocates.
Minors registered on the platform are often from economically disadvantaged regions, where cultural norms and poverty drive early marriage. The psychological and social implications for these children are profound, with risks of violence and trauma being significant concerns highlighted by experts.
International Reactions and Calls for Reform
The investigation by Shargh and subsequent international coverage have increased pressure on Iran regarding child protection. Child-rights advocates urge a clear ban on under-18 marriages, emphasizing the need for Iran to align its domestic laws with international human rights conventions. The platform, with its significant number of active profiles, remains a focal point in the debate over balancing demographic objectives with ethical and legal obligations.
Sources:
Iran International: Iranian matchmaking site enables child marriage
Israel Hayom: Investigation into Iranian government-backed website
UK Government: Iran Country Policy and Information Note
Middle East Online: Iran launches matchmaking app






















