According to Forced Marriage Unit (FMU), Forced Marriage occurs when one or both parties do not or are not able (in case of learning disabilities) to consent to the marriage and pressure or abuse is used to force them into it. Based on this definition, forced marriage comprises of two elements: lack of consent and the presence of physical, emotional and/or psychological abuse.
Forced Marriage is a criminal offence under the section 121 Anti-Social Behavioural Crime and Policing Act 2014, it is a form of Violence Against Women and Girls and severe violation of fundamental Human Rights. Moreover, according to International Criminal Law, FM constitutes a crime against humanity, as a systematic and widespread attack against the civilian population.
The Marriage and Civil Partnership (Minimum Age) 2023 entered into force introducing the age of 18 as the minimum-with no exceptions- age one is allowed to enter marriage or civil partnership. Before that, the minimum age was indeed 18 years, however, 16–17-year-olds could marry or get to a civil partnership with parental, guardian or judicial consent. The new legislation enters a new era regarding Child Marriages, as no matter the circumstances, they will be regarded as a criminal offence from now on. More significantly, proof of coercion will not be required anymore and any marriage below the age of 18 will be void.
Find help and support
If you are worried about yourself or someone else who may be affected:
Contact KMEWO if you need support to report forced marriage: 02072631027, referrals@kmewo.com
Contact The Forced Marriage Unit (FMU):
The Forced Marriage Unit (FMU) plays a pivotal role in preventing British nationals from being coerced into marriage overseas. If you or someone you know is at risk or has been affected by forced marriage, do not hesitate to contact FMU. Reach out to their team at 020 7008 0151 / 0044 20 7008 0151 (overseas) or via email at fmu@fcdo.gov.uk.
In an emergency:
