The lowest age of consent globally is 11 years old, found in Nigeria.
Understanding the Age of Consent
The age of consent is the minimum age at which an individual is considered legally competent to consent to sexual activity. This legal framework is established to protect minors from exploitation and abuse. Laws regarding the age of consent vary significantly across different countries and jurisdictions, reflecting diverse cultural, social, and legal norms.
Global Variations in Age of Consent
While 11 is the lowest, many countries have different ages of consent, which are influenced by a combination of historical context, societal values, and the perceived maturity levels of young individuals. These variations highlight the global complexity of child protection laws and human rights.
Here's a breakdown of some of the ages of consent found worldwide:
| Country | Age of Consent |
|---|---|
| Nigeria | 11 |
| Philippines | 12 |
| Angola | 12 |
| Niger | 13 |
| Comoros | 13 |
| Burkina Faso | 13 |
| Brazil | 14 |
| Colombia | 14 |
| Peru | 14 |
| Paraguay | 14 |
| Ecuador | 14 |
| Bolivia | 14 |
Key Observations from Global Data
- Lowest Age: Nigeria currently holds the distinction of having the lowest age of consent at 11.
- Ages 12 and 13: Several other nations, particularly in Africa, have ages of consent set at 12 or 13, including the Philippines (12), Angola (12), Niger (13), Comoros (13), and Burkina Faso (13).
- Age 14: A common age of consent, particularly among South American countries, is 14. This includes Brazil, Colombia, Peru, Paraguay, Ecuador, and Bolivia.
These differing legal ages underscore the varying approaches countries take in defining childhood and protecting young individuals within their legal systems.
