Who is most likely to be victim to a forced marriage?

Forced marriages appear to effect women more than men; these women are mostly between the ages of 13 and 30.

Some reasons a person may be forced into marriage include:

• Parents believe they are protecting their child and guaranteeing a future for them.

• Parents believe they are improving family relations by protecting family honour, ensuring cultural and religious traditions, ensuring wealth remains in the family and often they feel pressure from distant family or their peers.

• By forcing someone to marry, a person is able to control sexual behaviour and put a stop to what may be perceived as unsuitable relationships.

• A form of protecting religious ideas.

Download your free leaflet on FORCED MARRIAGES