UK forced marriages could be banned under new proposals

Families who force their children to marry could face prosecution under proposals for a new British law which would make such practices illegal.

A forced marriage is entirely different from an arranged marriage where all parties are involved and in consent.

Though often engrained in some cultural expressions of religion, forced marriages can violate human rights. In extreme cases, “honour killings” have taken place, where children refusing to marry have been murdered by family members who believe they can reclaim their family’s honour in this way.

The issue is a sensitive one, and outlawing forced marriages may not be the best course of action. Indeed, it is something of a taboo subject in many communities.

The group Imkaan, which supports Asian women and children experiencing domestic violence, said: “We’re really pleased to see the government engaging in a public consultation on this important issue and look forward to hearing what our members have to say.”

Read the full article: Forced marriage ‘could be banned’