Forced marriage is a form of violence and abuse that occurs when one or both parties in a marriage do not consent to the union and are forced into it against their will. Forced marriage is a serious human rights violation that can have devastating consequences for the individuals involved.
In the UK, forced marriage is illegal and is recognised as a criminal offense under the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014. The Forced Marriage (Civil Protection) Act 2007 also provides legal protections for victims of forced marriage, including the ability to obtain a court order to prevent a forced marriage from taking place.
Despite these legal protections, forced marriage remains a significant issue in the UK, particularly within certain communities. Victims of forced marriage may experience physical, emotional, and psychological abuse, and may be at risk of honour-based violence or even murder if they attempt to leave the marriage.
The UK government has taken steps to address forced marriage and raise awareness of the issue. This includes the creation of the Forced Marriage Unit, a joint initiative between the Home Office and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office that provides support and guidance to victims of forced marriage and their families.
The UK has also implemented a number of measures to prevent forced marriage from occurring, including educational programs in schools and community outreach initiatives. These efforts aim to increase awareness of the issue and empower individuals to recognize the signs of forced marriage and seek help.
It is important to recognise that forced marriage is a serious violation of human rights that has no place in any society. The UK must continue to work to prevent and address forced marriage, ensuring that victims receive the support and protection they need to escape abusive situations and rebuild their lives.