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LEARNING CENTRE

Forced Marriage

What is it?

Forced marriage is when one or both parties do not consent to their marriage and where duress is a factor (i.e. pressure or abuse is used).

In order for someone to consent to marriage, they must have the freedom (to say no) and the capacity (to understand).

An arranged marriage is different to a forced marriage. In an arranged marriage the family takes a leading role but both parties have the free will and choice to either accept or decline the arrangement. However, the lines can become blurred between arranged and forced marriages when saying no does not feel like an option

Both girls/women and boys/men can be forced into marriage, though more victims are female.

It is estimated that between 8-10,000 British nationals are forced into marriage each year in the UK.

Men can be at heightened risk if they have certain characteristics (including disability, sexuality and mental health needs), and women can be perpetrators as well as victims.

Harms of forced marriage may include:

  • Self-harm
  • Rape
  • Lower academic performance
  • Removal from education
  • Depression or anxiety
  • Isolation
  • Disowned by family
  • Suicide

Reasons may include:

  • To “correct” behaviour or restore the reputation of the family in the community
  • Immigration​, for example, to secure a spouse visa for a cousin abroad
  • A guarantee against poverty​
  • To maintain a strong family unit
  • To prevent sexual relationships happening outside of marriage
  • A response to pregnancy outside of marriage ​
  • To provide a carer for a family member living with disabilities ​

To force heterosexuality and gender conformity

Forced marriage is illegal in the UK and carries up to 7 years imprisonment. This includes taking someone overseas to force them to marry (whether or not the forced marriage takes place). It also includes marrying someone who lacks the mental capacity to consent to the marriage, whether they are pressurised or not.

Forced Marriage Protection Orders (FMPO) can be used to protect someone at risk. They are tailored to each case and contain legally binding conditions and directions to protect someone being forced into marriage. The court can make an order in an emergency so that protection is in place straightaway. Applications for a FMPO can go along with a police investigation or other criminal proceedings. It is a criminal offence to breach a FMPO, with a maximum sentence up to 5 years in prison.

In 2023 the Marriage and Civil Partnership (Minimum Age) Act made it a criminal offence to arrange marriages for those under 18 years old, even if not coerced. This legislation covers non-legally binding ceremonies (such as a nikah or blessing) which are also illegal for the under 18s.

There may be warning signs that ‘honour’-based abuse, including forced marriage, is taking place. Please refer to the HBA Risk Assessment Tool.

Remember to safeguard siblings, acquaintances and any partner of the victim survivor.

Remember that cultural norms and interpretations of ‘honour’ can vary significantly, so what is considered dishonorable in one context may not be the same in another.

What can we do?

Call 999 if someone is in immediate danger

Report to your Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) 

Report to Social Care / MASH if appropriate

Link with a specialist agency upon obtaining consent (if the victim survivor is an adult)

Offer non-judgmental emotional support

Keep accurate records and use professional curiosity when asking questions

Specialist support services for ‘honour’-based abuse

Support is available for anyone who is experiencing, or is at risk of ‘honour’-based abuse, as well as those who are worried for someone they know.

The Forced Marriage Unit (FMU) offers advice and support to victims of forced marriage, as well as guidance to professionals.

Helpline Monday to Friday 9am – 5pm Tel: 020 7008 0151

Email: fmu@fco.gov.uk

Childline: 0800 1111 National helpline 24/7