Key Social Norms Take-aways This baseline study highlights the pervasiveness of social norms that reinforce early and forced marriage, gender-based violence (GBV), and limited reproductive autonomy among adolescent girls in Niger. Norms around family honor, male decision-making authority, and expectations for girls to marry and bear children early are deeply entrenched. The study underscores that for behavior change interventions to be effective, they must address both individual attitudes and the collective expectations of communities, including those held by influential gatekeepers such as parents and religious leaders.

Objectives The objective of the study was to establish baseline measures for the USAID RISE II social norms change initiative in Niger. The focus was on understanding prevailing norms related to gender-based violence, early marriage, family planning, and adolescent reproductive health in Dosso, Maradi, Tillabéri, and Zinder regions.

Methods The study used a mixed-methods approach combining quantitative surveys and qualitative focus group discussions (FGDs). Quantitative data were collected from adolescent girls, boys, and their caregivers to assess attitudes, perceptions, and behaviors. Qualitative data explored how community members describe and justify social norms and practices, with specific attention to gender roles, marriage, and violence.

Intervention Details The RISE II social norms initiative is designed to reduce early marriage, improve gender equity, and increase use of family planning services. It leverages community engagement strategies, including dialogues, peer education, and collaboration with religious and traditional leaders to shift norms. The initiative focuses on adolescent girls and young women while also involving families and communities to create an enabling environment for change.

Results Findings revealed that early marriage is widely accepted and expected for girls, with marriage often seen as protective and necessary for family honor. Girls have limited agency in marriage and reproductive decisions. GBV is often normalized, particularly in the form of intimate partner violence, which is commonly justified under certain conditions. Community members recognize some harmful impacts of these norms but feel constrained by collective expectations and fear of social sanctions. There is some openness, especially among youth, to alternative norms that support girls’ education and delayed marriage.

Conclusions Addressing social norms is essential for transforming deeply rooted gender inequities in Niger. The RISE II initiative must engage both individuals and the broader community to shift power dynamics and promote more equitable norms. Sustainable change will require building consensus around positive alternatives and supporting local champions of change.