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Because forced marriage is illegal, it can happen in secret and can also be planned by parents, family or religious leaders. It may involve physical abuse, sexual abuse or emotional abuse.
Nobody has the right to force you to do something you don't want to do. You can talk to a counsellor any time about how you feel and if you're having problems with your family.
Some families force their children to marry because they:
But none of these reasons are okay. And nobody has the right to force you into marriage.
What you need to know about forced marriage:
feeling
TRAPPED
Remember that if you're being forced into marrying someone you don't want to, this is wrong and it's also against the law. It can feel like you have no control, but it's important to think about your future, your safety and what a forced marriage would be like for you.
It’s possible that your parents or family would force you to marry because they think it’s the best thing for you. This doesn't make things okay and you can get help to stop this from happening.
You might love your parents but might also feel unsure about why you're being forced to marry. You might be told that you're bringing shame on your family if you don’t marry. Your parents might even say that they'll disown you. This is emotional abuse.
If you can't talk to your parents, maybe you can think of another adult who you trust, like a family member, teacher or school nurse. It’s important to let someone know as quickly as possible so that you can be safe and get help.
Forced marriages happen in many religions and nationalities, and can affect both boys and girls. It doesn’t only happen to young people, it can happen to adults too. There are some people and communities that think forced marriage is okay.
But it’s important to remember that all major religions (Muslim, Hindu, Sikh, Christian and Jewish) are against forced marriage. Forced marriage is never okay, and it’s important to remember there is help available.
Forced marriage is against the law in the UK and you have a right to say no if you're being made to marry someone who you don’t want to. Find out more about marriage and the law.
You have the right to:
You might worry that if you tell someone then your parents or other people could get into trouble. Or you may think it will make things worse. You don’t have to deal with this on your own. There are people who won’t judge you and who will support you with what you’re going through. You can contact a counsellor in private at any time and talk about anything.
A forced marriage is different from an arranged marriage.
Arranged marriage:
Forced marriage:
Sometimes an arranged marriage can lead to a forced marriage. For example, if you agree to marry someone but then change your mind and decide not to.
If your parents or family don’t accept your decision and still make you go ahead with the marriage, this becomes a forced marriage.
If you need support and someone to talk to, you can and speak to one of our counsellors. It's free to call and confidential.
Other sites that can help:
Forced Marriage Unit (FMU) will help you think about what your options are.
Karma Nirvana has advice on how to protect yourself from the risk of a forced marriage or honour violence.
Child Helpline International provides information about the different helplines around the world. If you're abroad and need help, this site might be useful.
Freedom Charity has advice on your rights, how you can stay safe and how to get help if you're at risk of forced marriage.
