Forced marriage

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Forced marriage is a marriage in which one or more of the parties is married without their consent or against their will. A forced marriage differs from an arranged marriage, in which both parties presumably consent to the assistance of their parents or a third party such as a matchmaker in choosing a spouse. The practice of forced marriage is condemned by numerous international conventions and human rights organizations.

Definition and Distinctions

Forced marriage involves coercion, pressure, or deception to marry. The pressure can be physical, psychological, financial, sexual, or emotional. Forced marriage is a violation of human rights and is considered a form of violence against women and men. It is important to distinguish forced marriage from arranged marriage, where the individuals have the right to choose whether to accept the arrangement or not.

Causes

The causes of forced marriage are complex and varied. Often, they are rooted in cultural, religious, and social norms that value marital unions for reasons other than the mutual consent and love of the couple. Economic factors, such as poverty and dowry practices, can also play a role. In some cases, families may force a marriage to strengthen family ties, settle debts, or control sexuality and reproduction.

Consequences

The consequences of forced marriage can be severe, affecting the physical and mental health of victims. Individuals may suffer from depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). There are also potential legal and social implications, including issues related to inheritance rights, custody of children, and immigration status.

Legal Framework

Internationally, forced marriage is recognized as a violation of human rights. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights states that marriage should be entered only with the free and full consent of the intending spouses. Various international treaties and conventions, such as the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), also address the issue of forced marriage.

Prevention and Support

Efforts to prevent forced marriage and support victims include legal measures, education, and outreach programs. Many countries have enacted laws to criminalize forced marriage, provide protection orders for victims, and offer safe shelters. Education and awareness campaigns aim to change attitudes and norms that perpetuate the practice. Support services for victims include counseling, legal assistance, and integration programs.

See Also

• Arranged marriage
• Child marriage
• Domestic violence
• Human rights